Viral Culture

Label Mnemonic:	VIRAL
Epic code:	LAB7521
Order form:	Laboratory Requisition
Supply order:	Supply Order Form
Billing:	Billing Policies
CPT code:	87252 Tissue culture. If definitive identification required, add 87253.

Specimen(s):

Rectal Swab or Stool

Collection Medium:

	or
Chlamydia/Viral Transport Kit	or	Swab Kit Straight HSV--VZV/Viral Culture 3.0 mL

Minimum:

Specimen source preferred
Collect stool in sterile leak-proof container.

Collect rectal swab in viral transport media.

Place each specimen in a separate, individually sealed bag.

Rejection Criteria:

Calcium alginate, dry, eSwab or wood swabs. Specimens may be rejected by the reference laboratory if they exceed stability requirements.

Turn Around Time:

3-14 days upon receipt at reference laboratory

Reference Range:

Negative

Comments:

An ELISA test (Rotavirus & Adenovirus 40-41 Antigens) is available for enteric adenoviruses 40 & 41 and rotavirus in stool specimens.

Methodology:

Cell Culture

Instructions:

Do not freeze. Rectal swabs should be placed in viral transport media upon collection to submit to laboratory. Deliver on ice.

Sample Processing:

Submit in sterile transport container.

Sample Storage:

Refrigerate.
Specimen cannot be frozen.

Transport Instructions:

Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.

CPT Code:

87252 Tissue culture. If definitive identification required, add 87253.