Carbapenemase Detection, Phenotypic

Test Code

18869

CPT Codes
87184

Preferred Specimen

1 pure isolate of Enterobacteriaceae or Pseudomonas aeruginosa on slant, swab or plate

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: Varies with species and transport system
Refrigerated:Varies with species and transport system
Frozen: Unacceptable

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

Mixed isolates • Organisms other than enterobacteriaceae or pseudomonas aeruginosa • Nonviable organisms

Methodology
Modified Disk Diffusion

Setup Schedule

Set up: Daily; Report available: 3 days

Reference Range

Negative

Clinical Significance

Carbapenemase-producing organisms can be a difficult therapeutic challenge, due to their broad spectrum of resistance to beta-lactams. The profile of carbapenemase beta-lactam resistance is similar to that of extended- spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) with the addition of resistance to the carbapenems (imipenem, meropenem, doripenem, and ertapenem). In addition, carbapenemase producers may be cross-resistant to a wide range of antibiotic classes including the aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and sulfa drugs.

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.