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Pinworm Prep Exam (LAB001005)
Test Mnemonic:

O PIN

Specimen Requirements:

Pinworms are easily transmitted to others, careful handling is needed

Collection:

With a Swube tube or Scotch (clear cellulose) tape, collect a perianal specimen by placing the Swube paddle or Scotch tape against the perianal area and pressing the paddle or tape. Place the paddle into the tube holder; place the tape, adhesive side down on an unfrosted glass microscope slide.

Container:

Swube tube or Scotch tape on slide

Storage/Transport:

Room temperature; if testing or transport is delayed greater than 24 hours, then refrigerate the specimen.

Specimen Preparation:

Place slides in clean, screw cap container or Swube tube container

Stability:

3 days

Causes for Rejection:

Feces samples

Reference Range:

Negative

Turnaround Time:

1 to 3 days

Methodology:

Microscopic examination

Performed:

Clinical Microbiology

Synonyms:

Enterobius vermicularis prep; Scotch tape prep for Pinworms; Pinworm

Clinical Indication:

Suspect pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) infection

Patient Preparation :

The specimen is collected from the skin of the perianal area first thing in the morning, before the patient has bathed or used the toilet. 

 To obtain a sample from the perianal area, take a piece of clear cellulose (Scotch) tape and press the tape firmly several times against the right and left perianal folds.

Place the clear cellulose tape (adhesive side down) on a microscope slide. Tear the tape even with the end of the slide.

Submit the tapes and slides to the laboratory in a plastic bag.

Preparations should be taken for at least 4 to 6 consecutive days with negative results before a patient is considered free of the infection.

Note:

 Pinworm eggs are usually infectious.  The use of glass slides and tapes may expose you to these eggs.

CPT 4 Code:

 87172

Note:

Before a patient is considered negative, preparations should be taken for at least 4-6 consecutive days with negative results.

When ordering tests for which Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement will be sought, physicians should only order tests that are medically necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of the patient. Components of the organ or disease panels may be ordered individually. The diagnostic information must substantiate all tests ordered and must be in the form of an ICD-10 code or its verbal equivalent.
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