Test Code: 6419
CPT Code(s): 86757 (x2)
Includes: If Rickettsia (RMSF) Antibodies (IgG, IgM) is Detected, the appropriate Titer will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 86757 per titer performed).
Methodology: Immunofluorescent Assay (IFA)
Limitations: Even after infection has been treated, positive results may persist. False-positive reactions may occur during pregnancy.
Clinical Significance: Antigen specific IgG and IgM titers allow rapid diagnosis of infection by any of the spotted fever group of rickettsial agents. This group of agents include R. rickettsii (Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever) and R. akari (rickettsial pox), both seen in the continental United States.
Alternative Name(s): Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Spotted Fever Typhus
Supply: #T157 Red/Yellow SST 8mL
Preferred Specimen: Serum
Preferred Volume: 1mL
Transport Container: Serum Separator Tube (SST)
Transport Temperature: Room Temperature
Specimen Stability: Room Temperature: 7 Days
Rejection Criteria:
- Gross lipemia
- Hemolysis
- What are hemolyzed specimens?
- Hemolysis occurs when the red cells are damaged during sample collection causing them to rupture. Hemolyzed serum or plasma is pale pink to red rather than the normal clear straw or pale-yellow color.
- What causes a specimen to be hemolyzed?
- Mixing tubes too vigorously
- Placing tubes in the refrigerator without allowing 30 minutes at room temperature for complete clotting
- Exposure to heat or in a refrigerator that is too cold
- Using a needle with too small of a bore necessary for the venipuncture
- Using too large a tube when using a butterfly needle
- Not allowing sufficient time for alcohol to dry on puncture site
- Leaving the tourniquet on for longer than one minute
- How can hemolyzed specimens be prevented?
- For routine collections, use a 20–22-gauge needle
- Do not remove the needle from the vein with the vacuum tube engaged
- Do not collect a specimen in a hematoma
- Do not centrifuge the specimen for a prolonged period of time
- Draw the sample gently and evenly
- What are hemolyzed specimens?
- Plasma
- Specimens exceeding stability
- Specimens other than serum
- Unlabeled or improperly labeled specimens
For additional supply or collection 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.