Rickettsia Species DNA, Real-Time PCR

Test Code
70191


CPT Codes
87798

Preferred Specimen
0.7 mL whole blood collected in EDTA (lavender-top) tube, or ACD solution A or B (yellow-top) tube


Minimum Volume
0.3 mL


Other Acceptable Specimens
1 tick submitted in 70% alcohol, in a sterile transport tube


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


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
Set up: Mon-Sat; Report available: 1-2 days


Reference Range
Not detected


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.


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.