Bordetella pertussis (Whooping cough), Nasopharyngeal by PCR

Bordetella pertussis (Whooping cough), Nasopharyngeal by PCR
DataValue
Method PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
CPT Code 83890, 83898, 83896, 83894, 83912
Preferred Specimen Nasopharyngeal swabs, submit two swabs one from each nare. (Dacron swab preferred)
Do not collect with Calcium Alginate swab.
Other Acceptable Specimens Nasopharyngeal swab (Cotton or Rayon)
Minimum Requirement Two Dacron swabs
Specimen Container Flexible Dacron swab and sterile dry transport tube (available from the laboratory).
Specimen Identification Label transport tube with patient’s first and last name, DOB and date/time of collection.
Special Instructions

Collection (two swabs):

  • Guide the flexible swab into the contour of the Nares and into the nasopharynx. Leave swab in
  • Place for 30 seconds while rotating swab.
  • Remove swab.
  • Place swab in sterile dry transport tube without media (available from laboratory) and transport within 24 hours from collection.
  • For longer periods, store frozen at -20o C or below.
Shipping Requirements Store and ship refrigerated at 2-8° C.
Transport to lab as soon as possible.
If >24 hours from collection, ship frozen at –20° C or below on dry ice.
Sample Rejection Criteria
  • Specimens collected on calcium alginate swab (Calgiswab)
  • Inappropriate specimen transport
  • Mislabeled specimen
  • Unlabeled specimen
Turn-around-time Setup Time: 2:00 PM M-F
Results in 48-72 hours