Culture, Fungus, Skin, Hair or Nails

Test Code

39515

CPT Codes
87101

Includes

If culture is positive, then identification will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 87106 or 87107).

If the organism cannot be identified by the original method or if there are multiple organisms, identification by DNA sequencing may be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 87153).

Preferred Specimen

Basal portions of infected hairs, scrapings from the active, peripheral edge of lesions and scrapings from recently invaded nail tissue collected in a sterile leak-proof container or
Dry swab in a sterile container or
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Swab in a bacterial transport medium

Minimum Volume

Any amount basal portion or scrapings • 1 swab

Instructions

Remove hairs with forceps, scrape skin or scalp scales, clip nails and include keratin scrapings. Cleanse skin with alcohol before scraping. Cleanse feet and hands before collecting nails. Refrigeration is not recommended because it can inhibit dermatophytes.

Transport Container

Sterile leak-proof container
Dry swab in sterile container
Swab in bacterial transport medium

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Hair, skin and nail specimens
Room temperature: 14 days
Refrigerated: See Collection Instructions
Frozen: Unacceptable

Transport swabs
Room temperature: 72 hours
Refrigerated: See Collection Instructions
Frozen: Unacceptable

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

Specimens other than hair, skin or nails • Specimens transported in alcohol or formalin

Methodology
Fungal Culture • Isolation and Identification

Setup Schedule

Day shift Daily

Report Available

4-6 weeks

Clinical Significance

The prompt detection of fungus in clinical samples is extremely important for in-patient management. Disseminated fungal infections are increasing in prevalence, and fungus cultures are essential for the isolation and subsequent identification of the causative agents.

Performing Laboratory

Quest Diagnostics - West Region

Last Updated: November 6, 2024

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.