Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Qualitative PCR Test
Short Name: VZV PCR
Also known as: VZV Qualitative PCR, Chickenpox PCR, Shingles PCR, Varicella Zoster Virus DNA Detection
Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Qualitative PCR Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,000. Uses Real Time PCR on Whole blood (EDTA) OR Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples. Results in Results are typically available within 24-48 hours after sample submission. For samples received by 11 am on Monday or Thursday, reports are issued on Wednesday or Saturday respectively.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR
Consultant Physician · Reg: 8052
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the VZV Qualitative PCR Test is to confirm the clinical diagnosis of varicella-zoster virus infection by detecting viral DNA in blood or cerebrospinal fluid. It is particularly valuable in differentiating VZV from other viral infections that cause similar vesicular rashes or neurological symptoms.
- Test Code
- 3727
- CPT Code
- 87799
- ICD Code
- B01.9
- Price
- ₹5,000
- Sample Type
- Whole blood (EDTA) OR Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 24-48 hours after sample submission. For samples received by 11 am on Monday or Thursday, reports are issued on Wednesday or Saturday respectively.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Patients can eat and drink normally. For CSF collection, the healthcare provider will explain the procedure and obtain informed consent.
Method: Venipuncture or Lumbar puncture
Laboratory Analysis
Blood sample is collected by a trained phlebotomist from a peripheral vein. CSF is collected by a physician under sterile conditions via lumbar puncture. The sample is collected in the appropriate container and labelled properly.
Report Delivery
For blood, apply pressure on the puncture site to prevent bruising. For CSF, lie down for some time as advised by the doctor and drink fluids. Resume normal activities unless instructed otherwise.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 24-48 hours after sample submission. For samples received by 11 am on Monday or Thursday, reports are issued on Wednesday or Saturday respectively.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the VZV Qualitative PCR Test is to confirm the clinical diagnosis of varicella-zoster virus infection by detecting viral DNA in blood or cerebrospinal fluid. It is particularly valuable in differentiating VZV from other viral infections that cause similar vesicular rashes or neurological symptoms.
How to Prepare
- Use a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube for whole blood
- For CSF, use a sterile screw-capped container
- Ship samples refrigerated; do not freeze
- Label sample with patient name and unique ID
- Send sample to laboratory at earliest
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052
"VZV PCR is the gold standard for confirming active varicella-zoster infection, especially in immunocompromised patients or when skin lesions are atypical."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Frozen sample
- Haemolysed sample
- Sample not labelled correctly
- Sample received after 72 hours of collection
Understanding Your Results
Detected
Presence of VZV DNA indicates acute or reactivated VZV infection. Correlate with clinical symptoms and history.
Not Detected
No VZV DNA found in the tested sample. Consider alternative diagnosis if symptoms persist; repeat testing may be needed.
Consult a physician if you or your child develop vesicular rash consistent with chickenpox or shingles, especially if there is high fever, confusion, severe headache, difficulty breathing, or spread to multiple dermatomes. Immediate medical advice is needed for pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test does not provide viral quantification
- ⚠Negative result does not completely rule out VZV infection during early viremia
- ⚠Test may not differentiate between latent and active infection in rare cases
- ⚠Poor specimen quality can lead to false-negative results
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or infection at venipuncture site
- ●Lumbar puncture may cause headache, backache, or rarely infection
- ●No risk of contracting VZV from the test
Interfering Factors
- ●Haemolysed or clotted blood samples may inhibit PCR reaction
- ●Contamination with extraneous DNA during collection
- ●Insufficient sample volume
- ●Sample storage beyond recommended time or temperature
- ●Antiviral therapy initiated before sample collection may reduce viral load below detection limit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the VZV Qualitative PCR Test?
What sample is needed for the test?
Is fasting required before the test?
How long does the test report take?
Does the test differentiate between chickenpox and shingles?
Can this test be done at home?
Is the test useful for detecting VZV meningitis?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
Are there any risks in the test?
Can the test be performed during pregnancy?
How should the sample be transported?
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