Influenza A and B Detection

Test Code

Lab1051

Alias/See Also

Direct Rapid Influenza A and B by PCR
Flu
INFA

CPT Codes
87502

Preferred Specimen

Nasopharyngeal Swab in Universal Transport Medium (UTM)

Minimum Volume

3 mL UTM

Instructions

1. Open the UTM Sample collection pouch and remove the tube and swab.
2. Collect the sample from patient.
3. Unscrew and remove the cap from UTM tube making sure not to spill the medium.
4. Insert the swab into the tube breaking the swab shaft where it scored holding the tube away from your face.
5. Discard the broken handle part of the swab shaft into biohazard waste container.
6. Replace cap on the tube and secure tightly.

Transport Container

3 mL Universal Transport Medium (UTM)

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Refrigerated: 72 hours
Frozen: 30 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Improper collection swab
Improper specimen transport
Improper or no label

Methodology
COBAS LIAT® Influenza A and B by PCR

Setup Schedule

Daily, all shifts

Reference Range

Not detected

Clinical Significance

Detection and discrimination of Influenza A and Influenza B viruses in nasopharyngeal swab specimens collected from patients with symptoms of a respiratory infection.

Performing Laboratory
Meritus Molecular Diagnostics - Microbiology

Additional Information
Video for Specimen Collection

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.