Molecular Detection by Conventional PCR and Sequencing

Detection of Merkel cell polyomavirus DNA in tissue specimens

Skin biopsies. For fixed tissue, please submit 5 scrolls or entire block.

Fresh biopsy or fixed tissue of skin.

Fresh biopsies must be stored frozen at all times and shipped on dry ice. Fixed tissue may be stored and shipped at room temperature.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Suspected Merkel cell carcinoma.

Pathology results of skin biopsy. Completed “Sexually Transmitted and Opportunistic Infections” requisition form including sender lab name, address and telephone number, patient identifier, date of birth or age and sex, specimen reference #, type of specimen, date collected, test requested, and any other relevant clinical information.

SPECIAL REQUEST ONLY. Contact the laboratory prior to sending specimens.

Conventional Merkel Cell Polyomavirus PCR followed by direct sequencing. (1) The sequence data are then analyzed and compared to published Merkel Cell Polyomavirus sequences. Results are for research purposes only.

Testing is performed, in whole or in part, using a “Research Use Only” testing kit which has not been fully validated/verified.

Test is done by special request; inquire with lab for turnaround times.

1. Katano H, Ito H, Suzuki Y, Nakamura T, Sato Y, Tsuji T, Matsuo K, Nakagawa H, Sata T. Detection of Merkel cell polyomavirus in Merkel cell carcinoma and Kaposi's sarcoma. J Med Virol. 2009 Nov;81(11):1951-8. doi: 10.1002/jmv.21608. PMID: 19774683.