HHV-8 is the etiologic agent of Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS). Numerous studies have documented a higher risk of developing KS among HIV patients, organ transplant patients, and other immunocompromised individuals.

Quantitative HHV-8 DNA PCR can be used to document the presence of the virus as well as track the course of infection.

Lavender (EDTA), 4mL

Immediately following collection, mix sample thoroughly by gently inverting 8 - 10, times to prevent clotting

Lavender (EDTA), 4mL

Refrigerated (preferred) - 4 days

Specimen must be received at Viracor-IBT within 96 hours of collection

Ambient - 4 days

Frozen (-80) - 28 days

Freeze/thaw cycles - stable x3

• Specimens beyond their acceptable length of time from collection as listed in the specimen collection
• Specimens received in trap containers
• Specimen types other than those listed
• Specimen not received in original tube
• PCR testing cannot be added on to a sample that has been opened and/or used for other testing. If the sample has already been used for testing, a new specimen will need to be collected.

Real-time, quantitative PCR (RT-PCR)

Negative