Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
Synonyms
M. pneumonia by PCR
Specimen Type
See Collection Instructions
Performing Lab
Quest Diagnostics San Juan Capistrano
Epic ID
LAB01019
Lab Test Days
Monday-Saturday
Standard TAT
1-2 Days
Collection Information
Specimen Required
0.35-1 mL Sputum or Bronchial lavage/wash (BAL) collected in a sterile container or throat or nasopharyngeal swab in VCM or equivalent (UTM)
Container Type
See Below
Collection Instructions
0.35-1 mL CSF collected in a sterile container is also acceptable.
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate-OK/Frozen-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp=48 Hours; Refrigerated=7 Days; Frozen=30 Days
Rejection Criteria
Calcium alginate swabs
Test Volume Required
1 mL
Minimum Test Volume
0.35 mL
Processing Instructions
Indicate source in comments, on specimen and on batch sheet.
CPT Codes
87581
Revised
09-27-22