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Rickettsia Species DNA, Real-Time PCR
Test Code70191
CPT Codes
87798
Preferred Specimen
0.7 mL whole blood collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube or ACD (yellow-top) tube
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
1 tick collected in 70% alcohol
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (cold packs)
Specimen Stability
Whole blood
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Tick
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Tick
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
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
A.M.
Clinical Significance
According to the CDC, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is the most severe and most frequently reported rickettsial illness in the United States. Infection is transmitted by ixodid (hard) ticks carried by dogs and other mammal species. Initial signs and symptoms of the disease include sudden onset of fever, headache, and muscle pain, followed by development of rash. The disease can be fatal without prompt treatment.
