Tick (and Other Arthropods) ID

Test Code

3946

Alias/See Also

1230800041 | LAB2347: Tick (and Other Arthropods) ID | QUEST EAP: 3946

CPT Codes
87168

Preferred Specimen

70% alcohol preserved tick, insect, larva, etc. collected in a plastic sterile leak-proof container

Other Acceptable Specimens

10% formalin preserved tick, insect larva, etc. collected in a plastic sterile leak-proof container

Instructions

Place specimen in alcohol as soon as possible. Submit one parasite per container.

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: Dependent on organism integrity
Refrigerated: Dependent on organism integrity
Frozen: Unacceptable

Methodology
Microscopic and Macroscopic Examination

Setup Schedule

Set up: Mon-Sat; Report available: 1-4 days

Reference Range

See Laboratory Report

Clinical Significance

Arthropods/insects may be vectors of disease and may cause infestations of skin, hair, and mucous membranes. Diagnosis of a disease or infestation may be achieved by recovery and identification of the intact arthropod/insect.

Performing Laboratory

Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute

14225 Newbrook Drive

Chantilly, VA 20153

Last Updated: April 21, 2023

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.