Culture, Respiratory - Upper

Culture, Respiratory - Upper
DataValue
Method Culture
CPT Code 87070
Test Scope Isolation and identification of pathogenic aerobic bacteria. Susceptibilities performed at an additional charge when appropriate. Anaerobic cultures are not appropriate from an upper respiratory tract sample.
Preferred Specimen Swab (throat, nose or oral region)
Other Acceptable Specimens Sinus Aspirate
Specimen Container Culture Collection Swab in Transport Media
Specimen Identification Label transport tube with patient’s first and last name, DOB and date/time of collection.
Special Instructions Indicate specific specimen source on requisition slip.
Shipping Requirements Store and ship at room temperature.
Transport to lab as soon as possible.
Sample Rejection Criteria
  • Inappropriate specimen transport
  • Expired transport medium
  • Leaking transport container
  • Mislabeled specimen
  • Unlabeled specimen
  • Specimen > 72 hours old
Turn-around-time 48-72 hours