REF MISC
Anti Merkel Cell Panel
Synonyms:
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus
Merkel Cell Carcinoma Oncoprotein
Performing Lab:
Referral Laboratory
Container Type:
Plain red top or serum gel tube
Specimen Type:
Serum
Preferred Volume:
2.0 mL
Minimum Volume:
0.5 mL
Specimen Processing:
Centrifuge and separate serum within 4 hours of collection.
Store and Transport:
Frozen
Stability:
Room Temperature - 7 days
Refrigerated - 7 days
Frozen - > 7 days
Limitations:
Lipemia may increase results 15-20%.
CPT Codes:
0058U
Method:
Laboratory developed Luminex paramagnetic bead, multiplex assay.
Reference Ranges:
Clinical Significance:
Screening for the Merkel cell polyomavirus VP1 capsid antibody is done once, on the first sample ordered. This assay is used to screen Merkel Cell Carcinoma patients for current or prior infection with the Merkel cell polyomavirus. Patients who lack these antibodies should not be monitored with additional testing because they do not make antibodies to the viral oncoprotein and should be monitored by other means. VP1 capsid antibodies are not an indicator of disease activity.
Reflex Test :