Clostridium difficile screen : 1000176

Test Code

CDS or 1000176

Alias/See Also

CDS; C. difficile common antigen; glutamate hydrogenate

CPT Codes
87324

Includes

Samples that are negative in both antigen and toxin screens are reported as negative. Samples that are positive in both antigen and toxin screens are reported as positive. Samples that are not reportable as positive or negative will be reported as Inconclusive. The client will be contacted to place an order for the nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for Clostridium toxin B. Reflex to NAAT (test code RCDNAP) if they desire further testing.

Instructions

Soft or liquid stool:
1. Transfer liquid or soft stool (but not urine) into the container. Avoid mixing toilet paper, water, or soap with the sample. Do NOT submit formed stool.
2. Label the container. Include collection date, time and initials.

NOTE: One test for Clostridium difficile per diarrheal episode should be sufficient. Samples for repeat testing within 5 days of an initial test should not be submitted without consultation with the Laboratory Director.

Transport Container

Submit stool specimen (Min. 1 gram or 1 mL) in a screw capped container without additive or perservative.

Note: Formed stools are not acceptable. Fecal specimens preserved in 10% Formalin, merthiolate formalin(MF), sodium acetate formalin(SAF) or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) cannot be used.

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated.

Specimen Stability

Transport as quickly as possible.

Methodology
Screening tests for C difficile glutamate dehydrogenase [GDH, common antigen] and toxin A&B by rapid membrane enzyme immunoassay

Setup Schedule

Sunday - Saturday

Report Available

1 day

Reference Range

Negative Antigen, Negative Toxin

Clinical Significance

The analysis of C. difficile in stool specimens aids in the diagnosis of pseudomembranous colitis and antibiotic-associated disease.

Performing Laboratory
med fusion

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.