| Method |
Culture |
|---|
| CPT Code |
87166 |
|---|
| Preferred Specimen |
Culture collection swab in culturette, If membranes are present and can be removed, swab from beneath the membrane |
|---|
| Other Acceptable Specimens |
None |
|---|
| Specimen Identification |
Label transport tube or container with patient’s first name, last name and DOB include date and time of collection. |
|---|
| Special Instructions |
- Notify Laboratory of diphtheria request ASAP.
- Indicate specific specimen source on requisition.
- Include any pertinent patient medical history.
- Indicate suspected diagnosis
|
|---|
| Shipping Requirements |
Store and ship at room temperature immediately. DO NOT refrigerate. |
|---|
| Sample Rejection Criteria |
- Inappropriate specimen transport
- Expired culturette
- Leaking transport container
- Mislabeled or Unlabeled specimen
- Specimen not representative of the anatomic site from which C. diphtheria is commonly found.
- Specimen > 72 hours old
|
|---|
| Turn-around-time |
72-96 hours |
|---|