Test code: 16086
CPT code(s): 87502
Methodology: Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
Reference range(s): Not detected
Alternative name(s): Flu A, Flu B
Clinical significance: This test is used to determine the presence of Influenza A or B in a patient's specimen. Organisms may be detected by PCR prior to diagnosis by immunological methods. PCR provides more rapid results than other methods, including culture.
Additional Preferred Specimen: Sputum (Supply #OF06)
Supply: Supply #S05 VCM, Nasal Swab
Preferred specimen(s): Throat or nasal/nasopharyngeal swab in 3 mL m4 media or VCM medium tube or equivalent (UTM) tube. If using swabs, use only sterile dacron or rayon swabs. Do not use calcium alginate swabs, as they may contain substances that inhibit PCR testing. Break applicator stick off near the tip to permit tightening of cap.
- Insert swab into one nostril.
- Rotate swab over surface of posterior nasopharynx.
- Withdraw swab from collection site; insert into transport tube.
- Repeating procedure for the second nostril will deliver optimal combined sample.
- After collection, immediately transport specimen to the laboratory for viral testing and viral antigen detection. If transport to the laboratory is delayed, place specimen on ice or in refrigeration. Indicate source of specimen on both the requisition and specimen transport device.
Minimum volume: 0.6 mL
Alternative specimen(s) (Sputum): Collect in a sterile container (Supply #OF06) with a leak-proof cap.
Transport container: VCM, UTM equivalent or plastic-leak proof container
Transport temperature: Refrigerated (cold packs)
- Room temperature: 48 hours
- Refrigerated: 7 days
- Frozen: Unacceptable
All other samples:
- Room temperature: 48 hours
- Refrigerated: 14 days
- Frozen: 30 days
Rejection Criteria:
- Calcium alginate swabs
- Cotton swabs with wooden shaft
- Amies liquid or gel transport used for bacterial culture
For additional supply or collection device information, please contact DLO's Customer Service at (800) 891-2917, option 2.
The CPT codes provided 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.