Labs for Quantitative HHV-6 PCR DNA testing

Serum: Only found in acute infections or in those with chromosomally integrated HHV-6.

Whole blood: We don’t recommend testing whole blood by PCR since many healthy persons have latent DNA in their cells. Exceptions:

A) Whole blood PCR can be used to type the variant (A vs B).

B) Quantitative whole blood PCR can be used to identify and monitor treatment in patients with chromosomal integration.

Viracor This lab specializes in serving physicians who treat transplant patients. They use real time PCR that gives consistent quantitative results as long as unfrozen samples in lavendar top tubes are delivered overnight. They have a quantitative assay that can detect 100 copies per ml which is more sensitive than many commercial labs, but not sensitive enough to detect low-grade chronic infections. They can differentiate the A from the B variant. Order forms and instructions can be downloaded from their
web site.

Sample requirements: 3 mls whole blood in lavender top tube overnight at room temperature.        

Insurance billing: yes

Cost: $220

(800) 305-5198

Focus Diagnostics This lab does HHV-6 testing for the Mayo clinic. They use real time PCR and can now differentiate between the A and B variant. They use real time PCR and report a quantitative viral load or number of DNA copies.

Sample requirements:  1 ml serum OR 5 ml whole blood (ACD, EDTA)

Insurance billing: yes

Cost: $170.00

(800) 445-0185