Chlamydophila pneumoniae DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR

Test Code

16003

CPT Codes
87486

Preferred Specimen

Throat swab or Nasopharyngeal swab submitted in 1 mL VCM Transport Media, or 1 mL sputum or bronchial lavage/wash submitted in a sterile, leak-proof container

Minimum Volume

0.3 mL

Instructions

Respiratory Samples in M4 Media: Use sterile vials containing 3 mL of sterile M4 media. If using swabs, use only sterile Dacron or rayon swabs. Do not use calcium alginate swabs, as they may contain substances that inhibit PCR testing. Break applicator sticks off near the tip to permit tightening of the cap.

Sputum: Collect in a sputum collection kit or a sterile, plastic container with a leak-proof cap.

Bronchial Lavage: Collect in a sterile container with a leak-proof cap.

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated (cold packs)

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days

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

Specimens containing heparin or calcium alginate swabs

Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

FDA Status
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.

Setup Schedule

Set up: Mon-Sat; Report available: 2-3 days

Reference Range

Not detected

Clinical Significance

This test is used to determine the presence of Chlamydophila pneumoniae in a patient's specimen. Organisms may be detected by PCR prior to detection by immunological methods. PCR provides more rapid results than other methods, including culture.

Performing Laboratory

Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute-San Juan Capistrano, CA

33608 Ortega Highway

San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675-2042

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.