Mpox/Orthopoxvirus (Formerly Monkeypox) for Providers
Labcorp offers an FDA-cleared test for mpox, giving you and your patients the answers they need now.
Mpox Test Information
Labcorp is running the FDA-cleared, PCR-based mpox (orthopoxvirus) DNA assay developed by the CDC
Results
The mpox test is qualitative and will indicate a detected, not detected, equivocal or inconclusive result for the presence of DNA from non-variola orthopoxvirus species, of which mpox is one. Here is what these results indicate:
- Detected: A non-variola orthopoxvirus was detected. In addition to mpox, there are several viral species in the genus orthopoxvirus. But since there are no current epidemiological concerns about those other viruses, a positive result is presumptive positive for mpox. Variola is the virus that causes smallpox. This test will not detect smallpox.
- Not Detected: This means that an orthopoxvirus was not detected, and the patient is therefore negative for mpox.
- Equivocal: This result can occur when the virus is detected at levels close to the limit of detection of the assay, and a definitive result cannot be determined. For any equivocal result, the CDC recommends that a new patient sample is collected and tested.
- Inconclusive: This result can occur when the assay control criteria are not met and no virus is detected. The concern here is a poorly collected sample, and the CDC recommends that a new patient sample should be collected and tested.
Related tests suggested by the CDC
The appearance of mpox lesions may resemble those of STIs such as herpes or syphilis. For this reason, the CDC recommends comprehensive evaluations in patients presenting with genital or perianal ulcers for STIs. Patients co-infected with mpox virus and other infectious agents (e.g., varicella zoster, herpes, syphilis) have been reported, and should therefore have mpox on their differential diagnosis when presented with an STI-associated or STI-like rash.
Furthermore, a recent study by the CDC showed amongst 1,969 persons with mpox in eight U.S. jurisdictions, 38% had HIV infection, and 41% had an STI in the preceding year. Therefore, screening for HIV and other STIs and other preventive care should also be considered for persons evaluated for mpox.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Provider FAQs
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Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a rare disease caused by infection with the mpox virus. Mpox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. The Orthopoxvirus genus also includes variola virus (which causes smallpox), vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine), and cowpox virus. Mpox is not related to chickenpox.
Testing: what to know
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At this time, and per CDC guidelines, specimen collection must only be performed by a healthcare professional. Once collected, the specimen will then be sent to Labcorp for testing. Labcorp does not collect this specimen type at patient service centers.
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We are able to support the current demands of this test and are prepared to meet the needs of our clients and their patients should it increase in the near future.
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Order to result time is three to four days.
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Patients results will be sent to their ordering healthcare providers and Labcorp Patient™ Portal.
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Labcorp is running the CDC's test for detecting mpox. It has been FDA approved, and is based on highly sensitive PCR technology. False positives or false negatives are highly unlikely.
Patient FAQs
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Mpox, formerly monkeypox, is a rare disease caused by infection with the mpox virus, a virus belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus. Other viruses in this genus include variola virus (which causes smallpox) vaccinia virus (used in smallpox vaccines) and cowpox virus. This virus has no relation to chickenpox.
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Though mpox and COVID-19 are both caused by viruses, there are key differences between the diseases, how they are transmitted, their respective symptomology, prognosis, and treatment protocols. Please refer to the CDC website about these diseases.
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Mpox and herpes may share symptoms like skin lesions, but only your healthcare provider can accurately diagnose and treat these infections. Labcorp currently offers lab tests for both mpox and herpes.
Testing: what to know
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If you think that you’ve been exposed to mpox, or if you have possible symptoms such as skin lesions, please consult your healthcare provider about whether or not testing is appropriate.
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At this time, and per CDC guidelines, specimen collection must be performed by a healthcare professional. Once collected, the specimen will then be sent to Labcorp for testing. Labcorp does not collect this specimen type at patient service centers.
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Order to result time is three to four days.
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Your results can be obtained through your healthcare provider and Labcorp Patient™ Portal.
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Labcorp runs the CDC's test for detecting mpox. It has been FDA approved for diagnosing mpox, and is based in highly sensitive PCR technology.
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If you suspect you have mpox, consider following CDC recommendations for preventing the spread of mpox. Consult your healthcare provider for any questions about treating symptoms at home.
I have mpox. Now what?
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Your results will be sent to your ordering providers and your designated state health departments as may be required. Labcorp complies with all state and local reporting requirements.