Test ID POWVS Powassan Virus, RNA, Molecular Detection, PCR, Serum
Ordering Guidance
The Powassan virus polymerase chain reaction result may remain positive for a longer time in urine than in blood, serum, and cerebrospinal fluid (7 days or more).
Additional Testing Requirements
This test is designed to be used during the first 7 days after symptom onset and should be ordered in conjunction with POWV / Powassan Virus, IgM, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, Serum.
Specimen Required
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Serum gel
Acceptable: Red top
Submission Container: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
2. Label specimen as serum
Useful For
Rapid testing for Powassan virus RNA (lineage 1 and lineage 2) using serum specimens
An adjunctive test to serology for detection of early Powassan virus infection (ie, first few days after symptom onset)
This assay should not be used for screening asymptomatic individuals and should only be used to test patients with signs and symptoms of Powassan virus disease.
Testing Algorithm
For more information see Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel Algorithm
Method Name
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Reporting Name
Powassan Virus, PCR, SerumSpecimen Type
SerumSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
Serum | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days | |
Frozen | 7 days |
Reference Values
Negative
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Report Available
Same day/1 to 5 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
87798
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
POWVS | Powassan Virus, PCR, Serum | 55144-0 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
617490 | Lineage 1 | 55144-0 |
618146 | Lineage 2 (Deer Tick Virus) | 55144-0 |
618150 | Powassan Virus PCR Comment | 77202-0 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T732) with the specimen.