Polyomavirus – BK/JC Virus
Consistent with O. Reg. 671/92 of the French Language Services Act, laboratory testing information on this page is only available in English because it is scientific or technical in nature and is for use only by qualified health care providers and not by members of the public.
Background
This page provides Molecular Detection by Quantitative PCR testing information for Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The causative agent of PML include polyomavirus JC.
Testing of both BK/JC virus is not performed at Public Health Ontario (PHO). Specimens for JC virus testing are referred to NML, Winnipeg. Testing for BK virus was discontinued by the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) on March 31, 2020.
Updates
- Testing for BK virus was discontinued by the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) on March 31, 2020
Testing Indications
JC Virus testing is for suspected cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).
For more information on JC testing please visit the Molecular Detection by Quantitative PCR webpage.
Acceptance/Rejection Criteria
Plasma, serum, whole blood and urine will not be accepted. Please visit the Molecular Detection by Quantitative PCR webpage.
Specimen Requirements
| Test Requested | Required Requisition(s) | Specimen Type | Minimum Volume | Collection Kit |
JC Virus |
CSF |
300 µl1 (600 µl preferred) |
Sterile containers |
|
JC Virus |
Fresh Biopsies/Fixed Biopsies2 |
N/A |
Sterile containers |
Submission and Collection Notes
Minimum volume (300 µl) will not allow repeat testing of samples with equivocal results.
No quantitation possible on tissue biopsies. Please note that when testing formalin-fixed specimens, the presence of JCV may not be detected due to the decreased sensitivity of the assay with this sample type.
Collect CSF in a dry tube subject to classic conditions for carrying out lumbar punctures.
Complete all fields of the requisition form, including:
- Test(s) requests and indications for testing
- Patient setting/population/source
Label the specimen container(s) with the patient’s first and last name, date of collection, and one other unique identifier such as the patient’s date of birth or Health Card Number. For additional information see: Criteria for Acceptance of Patient Specimens. Failure to provide this information may result in rejection or testing delay.
Storage and Transport
- CSF may be stored and shipped refrigerated to NML within 48h of sample collection, or stored and shipped frozen.
- Fresh biopsies must be stored frozen at all times and shipped on dry ice.
- Fixed tissue may be stored and shipped at room temperature.
Place specimen in biohazard bag and sealed.
All clinical specimens must be shipped in accordance to the Transportation of Dangerous Good Act.
Test Frequency and Turnaround Time (TAT)
Specimens for JC Virus testing are referred to NML, Winnipeg. Submitter can arrange testing directly by contacting NML – Viral Exanthemata and STD Laboratory at 204-789-6024.
Turnaround time is up to 14 days from the date of receipt at NML.
For more information on JC testing please visit the Molecular Detection by Quantitative PCR webpage.
Stat and Critical Specimens Testing
STAT samples may be considered under special circumstances at NML. Please contact NML – Viral Exanthemata and STD Laboratory 204-789-6024 to inquire about shorter turnaround time.
JC Virus specimens are tested by quantitative multiplex PCR at NML. Click here for further information.
Interpretation
Analytical sensitivity between 10 and 100 copies of JC genome per assay. The results are reported as copy number per mL of specimen. No quantitation possible on tissue biopsies. Please note that when testing formalin-fixed specimens, the presence of JCV may not be detected due to the decreased sensitivity of the assay with this sample type.
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