Synonyms Throat and Nasopharyngeal Swabs for Virus Culture
Test Includes Isolation and identification of enteroviruses, adenovirus, herpes simplex virus, respiratory viruses, cytomegalovirus, mumps, measles rubella
Special Instructions Never send only a nasopharyngeal swab. Obtain Viral History Form and viral transport medium (VTM) from laboratory. A throat swab collected during the acute phase of illness is the single best specimen for demonstrating current viral infection (exceptions are lesion swabs for varicella-zoster virus and herpes simplex virus). Appropriate clinical history and source of specimen are essential to proper shell vial and monoclonal antibody selection and must be received with the specimen. All positive reports are phoned into the physician requesting viral studies. The physician's name and beeper number must be included on the request form.
Specimen Nasopharyngeal swab (adults) and throat swabs (both adults and pediatrics) are placed in separate VIM tubes. Note: Viral culture is performed from the nasopharyngeal aspirate (NPA)/nasal wash, along with RSV and influenza virus A/B (rapid) antigen detection. The NPA or nasal wash is obtained from pediatric patients only.
Collection Insert a fine-shafted swab into each nostril and rotate the swab around the nasal mucosa. Break off or cut off swab into a vial of viral transport medium (VTM). Take a second swab and vigorously culture the tonsillar areas and posterior nasopharynx. Break the swab off into the same vial containing the nasopharyngeal swab. Both the nasopharyngeal swab and the throat swab must remain in the VTM. Recap the vial securely.
Storage Instructions Transport specimen to the Virus Laboratory as soon as possible. If Virus Laboratory is not open, refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze specimen.
Causes for Rejection Swab sent in bacterial Culturette® not in viral transport medium, no swab in viral transport medium, specimen leaked in transit
