Pneumocystis Carinii Pneumonia (PCP)
Label Mnemonic: PNDFA
Epic code: LAB2384
Order form: Microbiology Laboratory Requisition
Supply order: Supply Order Form
Billing: Billing Policies
CPT code: 87281
Collection Medium:
Sterile container
Testing Schedule:
0700-1630, 7 days a week, including holidays.
Turn Around Time:
24 hours (upon receipt in laboratory)
Methodology:
Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) examination
Instructions:
Specimens must be collected in a sterile specimen container. 1.0 mL bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or 1.0 mL bronchial wash/brush/biopsy (if not accompanying BAL). Sputum is not an acceptable specimen type.
Sample Processing:
Indicate specimen/fluid type on requisition.
Label transport tube with two patient identifiers, date and time of collection.
Maintain sterility and forward promptly to lab.
Specimen source is required on requisition for processing.
Specimen should be collected and packaged as close to shipping time as possible.
Submit in leak-proof container.
Sample Storage:
Refrigerate.
Specimen cannot be frozen.
Transport Instructions:
Coolant packs up to 8 hours.
Recommend early AM overnight shipping or equivalent if not on courier service.
CPT Code:
87281