Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
Synonyms
Whooping Cough
Specimen Type
See Collection Instructions
Performing Lab
Quest Diagnostics San Juan Capistrano
Epic ID
Other Reference Test
Lab Test Days
Daily
Standard TAT
1-2 Days
Collection Information
Specimen Required
0.3-1 mL Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Container Type
Sterile Container
Collection Instructions
Nasopharyngeal swab collected in a Liquid Amies collection tube, VCM medium (green-cap) tube or equivalent UTM or in a Liquid Amies (eSwab) collection tube is also acceptable. Nasopharyngeal aspirates: Instill 1-1.5 mL of nonbacteriostatic saline (pH 7.0) into one nostril. Flush a plastic catheter or tubing with 2-3 mL of saline. Insert the tubing into the nostril parallel to the palate. Aspirate nasopharyngeal secretions. Repeat this procedure for the other nostril. Combine aspirates into a sterile vial. Nasopharyngeal swab: Collection kits using Amies liquid, M4, VCM/UTM are acceptable. Swab tips may be polyester, rayon, nylon flocked. Flexible shafts must be used for proper collection. Accuracy of the test depends on the collection of ciliated epithelial cells material. Half the distance from the nostril to the base of the ear could be used as estimation of the site of collection. Gently insert swab into the nostril. Keep the swab near the septum floor of the nose while gently pushing into the posterior nasopharynx. Rotate swab 2-3 times and hold in place for few seconds for optimal collection. Collection of both nostrils is recommended but not required.
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate-OK/Frozen-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp: 48 Hours (7 Days for N/P swab); Refrigerated: 8 Days (7 Days for N/P swab); Frozen: 30 Days
Rejection Criteria
Collection tubes with Amies gell or charcoal containing media; Samples collected using cotton or calcium alginated tipped swabs; Rigid shaft swabs
Test Volume Required
1 mL Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Minimum Test Volume
0.3 mL Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Processing Instructions
Indicate source in comments, on specimen and on batch sheet.
CPT Codes
87798 (x2)
Revised
09-26-22