SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Qualitative PCR

SARS-CoV-2 is detected by using one of the following assays:

The UW SARS-CoV-2 Real-time RT-PCR assay targets two distinct regions within the N gene of SARS-CoV-2 (the causative agent for COVID-19). Amplification of both targets results in a presumptive positive (detectable) test result, while amplification of one of two targets results in an inconclusive result, and amplification of neither target results a negative (non-detectable) test result.

This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by the University of Washington Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

This laboratory is certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) as qualified to perform high complexity clinical laboratory testing. This test is used for clinical purposes. It should not be regarded as investigational or for research.

The Hologic Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) SARS-CoV-2 Real-time RT-PCR assay targets two conserved regions of the SARS-CoV-2 (the causative agent for COVID-19) ORF1ab gene. The two regions are not differentiated; amplification of either or both regions is a presumptive positive (detectable) test result and amplification of neither target results a negative (non-detectable) test result.

The Roche cobas SARS-CoV-2 (510K) Qualitative PCR Assay targets two regions of the SARS-CoV-2 (the causative agent for COVID-19) genome, the E gene and ORF1ab gene. Amplification of both targets results in a positive (detectable) test result, while amplification of one of two targets results in an inconclusive result, and amplification of neither target results in a negative (non-detectable) test result.

Acceptable Specimens:

Preferred sample types: Nasopharyngeal (NP) and oropharyngeal (OP) swab specimens

Other acceptable specimen types: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), Sputum/Endotracheal Tube (ETT), Stool, Plasma, Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and Bronchial washings

Specimen Collection Guideline:

Collect nasopharyngeal (NP) and oropharyngeal (OP) swab specimens using a standard technique with a polyester-, rayon-, or nylon-tipped swab. Immediately place the swab into 3 mL of viral transport medium (VTM). Alternatively, swab specimens may be placed in saline or Liquid Amies.

The following VTM formulations have been verified for use:

• Remel MicroTest M4, M4RT, M5, or M6 formulations
• Copan Universal Transport Medium
• BD Universal Viral Transport Medium

Gently insert mini-tipped flocked nasopharyngeal swab (swab on flexible plastic shaft) through the nostril and into the nasopharynx, reaching the posterior nasopharynx. Leave swab in place for 2-3 seconds then rotate completely around for 10-15 seconds. Remove swab and repeat the same process in the other nostril with the same swab.

Mixed specimens (nasal swab and OP swab) in one tube of VTM are okay. After the second swab is completed, immediately place into the sterile vial containing media (UTM is preferred). Make sure that the swab is fully immersed in media, and that the shaft is short enough to completely tighten the cap. Obtaining columnar epithelial cells will enhance the reliability of viral detection

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and bronchial wash specimens should be collected using standard techniques.

Sputum/ETT collection: Obtain a specimen from a deep cough (preferably in the morning), induction, or intubation. Do not submit saliva.

Blood specimens: Only EDTA plasma or PPT are acceptable. Unacceptable specimens: Plasma from green-top (heparin), yellow-top (ACD), or gray-top (oxalate) tubes, as well as serum (no red-top tubes).

Stool specimens: A pea-sized sample must be collected in a clean container.

Shipping:

Send to the laboratory as soon as possible.

• Sample may be stored at 2 to 8°C for up to 72 hours of collection.
• Ship immediately to lab at 2 to 8°C (ice pack).
• If collection to receipt in the lab will exceed 72 hours freeze at -10°C or colder and ship on dry ice. Do not freeze/thaw.

Important Notes:

• Leaking samples will not be processed.
• At-home collected swabs cannot be accepted.
• Orange Aptima Multitest Swab Transport Media tubes are not acceptable

UW Medicine Locations

Place order in Epic using "COVID-19 Coronavirus Qualitative PCR" per routine.

Other Locations (eg, reference laboratory client)

Send all samples with the COVID-19 Test Requisition (form is a fillable pdf - please download and enter information before printing).

Send specimens to

UW Medicine
Department of Laboratory Medicine
Central Laboratory Annex

1602 Raymond Ave SW
Renton, WA 98057-3356
Tel: (206)-685-6656 opt 4

Additional information

Additional information on ordering, collection, and shipment can be found at https://depts.washington.edu/uwviro/order/

For all questions, contact Client Support Services (available 24/7):

Phone: (206) 520-4600 or 1 (800) 713-5198
Fax: (206) 520-4903
Email: commserv@uw.edu

Transport and store the tube at 2 to 25°C for up to 48 hours. Send to UW Virology Central Lab (Renton) via courier.

• Stability: Stable for 72 hours at 2 to 8°C.