Legionella Smear Only
Label Mnemonic: LEGSMEAR
Epic code: LAB8327
Downtime form: A-1a Doctor/Provider Orders - Pathology Core and Specialty Care Nursery
Commercial Mailout Laboratory
6240-8 RCP
356-8593
Specimen(s):
Sputum; Bronchial Brushings; Tracheal Aspirate; BAL/Washing; Pleural Fluid; Peritoneal Fluid; Pericardial Fluid; Biopsy; Lung Tissue, Autopsy; Other (Call SHL @ 335-4335 for consultation before collection and submission)
Specimen Instructions:
Identify specimen type.
Collection Medium:
Sterile Container
Minimum:
1 mL Sputum
3 mL Tracheal Aspirate or BAL/Washing
5 mL Pleural, Peritoneal or Pericardial Fluid

Sterile container (Product #37777 or #37778) for all specimen types.
Biopsy or Lung Tissue: add a small amount of sterile, non‑bacteriostatic distilled water to prevent desiccation. DO NOT ADD SALINE.
Rejection Criteria:
Delayed delivery to referral testing laboratory. Feces, urine, room temperature or frozen specimen.
Delivery Instructions:
Deliver to laboratory immediately after collection. Specimen should arrive at reference laboratory within 24 hours of collection & during business hours (M-F, 8-5). If transport can't be accomplished with 24 hours, call SHL @ 335-4335.
Turn Around Time:
1-2 days upon receipt at reference laboratory
Reference Range:
Negative
Comments:
Test is for detection and identification of Legionella pneumophila in clinical specimens.
Methodology:
Immunofluorescence
CPT Code:
87278