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Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

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HIV-1 RNA, QUALITATIVE, TMA

Geisinger Epic Procedure Code:  LAB1238    Geisinger Epic ID:  52877

SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Specimen type: 

Plasma


Preferred collection container: 
Alternate collection container: 
3 mL lavender-top (K2 EDTA) tube
Specimen required: 

1.6 mL plasma; minimum 0.8 mL



SPECIMEN PROCESSING
Processing instructions: 

Separate plasma from the cells by centrifugation within 24 hours after collection. Transfer to a plastic screw-cap vial and ship frozen.


Transport temperature: 

Frozen.


Specimen stability: 

Room temperature: 72 hours. Refrigerated: 5 days. Frozen: 42 days.


Rejection criteria: 

Whole blood, serum.



TEST DETAILS
CPT code(s):  87535
Note: The billing party has sole responsibility for CPT coding.  Any questions regarding coding should be directed to the payer being billed.
The CPT codes provided by GML are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only.

Methodology: 
Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA)
Synonyms: 

Quest test code 16185, HIV-1 RNA Ql


Clinical significance: 

An in vitro nucleic acid amplification test for the qualitative detection of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RNA. The test is intended to be used as an aid in diagnosis of HIV-1 infection. Detection of HIV-1 nucleic acid is indicative of HIV-1 infection, respectively. The presence of HIV-1 nucleic acid in the plasma or serum of individuals without antibodies to HIV-1 or HIV-2 is indicative of acute or primary HIV-1 infection. The HIV-1 Qualitative PCR may also be used as an additional test to confirm the presence of HIV-1 infection in an individual with specimens reactive for HIV-1 antibodies or antigens. The assay may also be used as an aid in the diagnosis of infection with HIV-1 in pediatric subjects and pregnant women. This assay is not intended to be used for monitoring patient status, or for screening donors of blood, plasma, or human cells, tissues, and cellular and tissue-based products (HCT/Ps) for HIV.


Review Date:  12/12/2024

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