Legionella Culture, Environmental [37357X]

Test Code

2046

CPT Codes
87999

Preferred Specimen

250 mL water collected in a sterile leak-proof container

Minimum Volume

100 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Culture swab of environmental water-related surface in liquid Amies (red-cap) or gel Amies (blue-cap) transport medium

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated (cold packs)

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: Unacceptable

Methodology
Culture

Setup Schedule

Set up: Daily a.m.; Report available: 15 days

Reference Range

Not isolated

Clinical Significance

Legionellae are found widespread in water sources, especially in warmer waters of plumbing systems and cooling towers. Infection often occurs through aerosol inhalation of contaminated water.

Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
14225 Newbrook Drive
Chantilly, VA 20153

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.