Laboratory Test Directory

 Influenza A/B RSV PCR (088-0130)

Synonyms: Influenza A PCR, Influenza B PCR, RSV PCR, Influenza Tests, RSV Tests, Swine flu, Season flu, Flu

CPT Code(s): 87801 x 3

Test Order Mnemonic: V PCRABR

Lab:  Microbiology

Applies To: Detection of Influenza A, Influenza B and RSV virus detection in respiratory samples.

Test Includes: Influenza A, Influenza B, RSV virus detection

Request Form: Microbiology

Collection: Nasopharyngeal swab: insert fine-tip Dacron or flocked swab past nasal turbinates into posterior nasopharynx. Turn swab several times and remove. Nasal swab: insert Dacron or flocked swab into nostril, turn several times and remove.  Throat swab: rub tonsilar area of throat with Dacron or flocked swab.  Nasal aspirate: insert flexible tubing past nasal turbinates into nasopharynx. Attach mucus trap or syringe to other end of tubing and apply suction.  Remove tubing from nose. It may be necessary to draw a small volume (approx 1 ml) of sterile saline through the tubing to collect mucoid secretions into trap or syringe. Nasal wash: introduce 1-2 ml of sterile saline into the nose using a sterile bulb, and immediately apply suction to collect saline plus secretions.  Alternatively, for older patients, tilt patient’s head back, pour 1-2 ml of sterile saline from a cup into a nostril, while the patient is humming (to avoid swallowing the saline).  Return patient’s head to normal position, while keeping the cup under the nose to collect secretions.

Storage Instructions: Place swab in Virus transport medium.  Fluids (aspirate or wash) should be collected in a sterile container.  Keep specimens cold and transport on ice.

Causes for Rejection: Inappropriate source.  Prolonged storage at room temperature. Repeat samples. Specimens received in non-sterile containers

Availability: Samples are accepted 24 hours per day at the Microbiology Processing Laboratory, Room 5.137 McCullough

Turnaround Time: 1-5 days

Special Instructions: Subtyping for Influenza A available upon approval of Microbiology Lab  Director.

Specimen: Nasopharyngeal swab, nasal swab, throat swab, nasal aspirate, nasal wash

Volume: 1 ml

Minimum Volume: 0.2 ml

Container: Culturette, sterile cup, Viral transport media (available from Microbiology – Room 5.137 McCullough)

Reference Range: Not detected

Test Methodology: Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction

Reviewed: 8/17/11 by Dr. Loeffelholz, PhD,  T. Friloux  MT (ASCP)