Giardia Antigen

Test Code

Lab259

Alias/See Also

Giardia antigen detection
GIAG

CPT Codes
87329

Preferred Specimen

Stool collected in 10% formalin such as a Para-Pak Formalin container (pink top)
(Para-Pak Formalin containers are available at any MML Patient Service Center)

Minimum Volume

5 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Stool collected in sterile container

Instructions

Collect specimen using provided bedpan; do not urinate into the bedpan.
Using the provided collection spoons, transfer sufficient stool (walnut size scoop or 5 mL liquid stool) to Para-Pak vial.
Tighten the cap on each of the vials, adequately mix the specimens, and return labeled vials to zip lock bag.

NOTE: If an Ova and Parasites test is also ordered, the same Para-Pak Formalin container can be used for both tests.

Transport Container

Para-Pak Formalin container

Transport Temperature

Ambient
If transport delayed, refrigerate specimen

Specimen Stability

Unpreserved specimen – 24 hours ambient
Specimens in formalin - 18 months ambient

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

Improper or no label
Improper storage and transport
Inappropriate collection such as - specimen in diaper, toilet paper, or exam gloves, specimen containing water or urine, or barium specimens.
Specimen leaked in transit
Specimen collected on rectal swab.

Methodology
ELISA

Setup Schedule

Wednesday, dayshift

Reference Range

Negative

Clinical Significance

Identification of Giardia lambdia antigen in stool.

Performing Laboratory
Meritus Microbiolgy

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.