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Test Code CHIKC Chikungunya Virus, PCR, Molecular Detection, Spinal Fluid


Additional Testing Requirements


Due to the short period in which chikungunya RNA may be detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), testing serum for IgM- and IgG-class antibodies to chikungunya virus is also recommended. See CHIKV / Chikungunya IgM and IgG, Antibody, Serum.



Specimen Required


Collection Container/Tube: Vial number 2

Submission Container/Tube: Sterile screw cap vial

Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL

Collection Instructions: Do not centrifuge or heat inactivate.


Useful For

Qualitative detection of chikungunya virus in cerebrospinal fluid after early symptom onset (ideally <7 days)

 

This test is not recommended for screening healthy patients.

Method Name

Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)/DNA Probe Hybridization

Reporting Name

Chikungunya Virus, PCR, CSF

Specimen Type

CSF

Specimen Minimum Volume

0.3 mL

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time Special Container
CSF Refrigerated (preferred) 7 days
  Frozen  7 days

Reject Due To

Heat-inactivated specimen Reject

Clinical Information

Chikungunya virus (CHIK) is an RNA virus of the genus Alphavirus, family Togaviridae transmitted mainly through the bite of infected mosquitoes in the genus Aedes (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). This is the same mosquito that transmits dengue, yellow fever, and Zika viruses. Most people infected with chikungunya virus will develop some symptoms, most commonly fever and joint pain. There is no specific antiviral treatment for chikungunya virus infection.

 

Most cases of disease have occurred in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Indian and Pacific Oceans, but transmission of CHIK has been identified in Caribbean countries and South American regions, as well as foci in the southern United States. Infection with chikungunya virus may be suspected based on symptoms (fever, joint pain, and headache) and recent history of travel. A diagnosis of CHIK infection can be confirmed through laboratory tests on serum or cerebrospinal fluid.

 

This assay is designed to detect only species of clinical significance and is to be used for patients with a clinical history and symptoms consistent with chikungunya infection.

Reference Values

Negative

Reference values apply to all ages.

Day(s) Performed

Tuesday, Thursday

Report Available

Same day/1 to 5 days

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

Test Classification

This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

CPT Code Information

87798

Forms

If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.