Influenza A and B RNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR

Test Code

16086

CPT Codes
87502

Preferred Specimen

Throat or nasopharyngeal swab submitted in 1 mL VCM (green-cap), or equivalent (UTM) tube or phosphate buffered saline or 0.9% physiological saline or 0.85 mL bronchial or tracheal lavage/wash or sputum collected in a sterile, leak-proof container

Minimum Volume

0.6 mL

Instructions

Upper respiratory swab samples in VCM, M4 or UTM transport media, PBS or 0.9 saline: Use only sterile dacron or rayon swabs. Do not use calcium alginate swabs, as they may contain substances that inhibit PCR testing. Break applicator stick off near the tip to permit tightening of the cap.

Sputum or bronchial lavage: Collect in a sterile container with a leak-proof cap.

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated (cold packs)

Specimen Stability

Nasopharyngeal or throat swab in PBS
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: Unacceptable

All other samples
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days

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

Calcium alginate swabs • Cotton swabs with wooden shaft • Amies liquid or gel transport used for bacterial culture

Methodology
Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-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: Daily; Report Available: 1-3 days

Clinical Significance

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

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.