Effective 9/28/09, CPL will offer a rapid screen test for the detection of influenza A and influenza B viruses. This qualitative direct antigen test detects the presence of influenza A and influenza B viruses from nasal and throat swab specimens from symptomatic patients. The direct antigen screen is unable to differentiate between seasonal influenza A and influenza A- H1N1(Swine Flu) viruses. The sensitivity of the test is approximately 70%. Thus, a negative result for influenza A does not rule out either seasonal influenza A or Influenza A H1N1(Swine Flu). If more conclusive testing is desired, follow-up confirmatory testing by Real–Time PCR technology is available.
Test order information for the Influenza A & B screen, Influenza H1N1(Swine Flu) by RT-PCR and Influenza A, B, H1N1 Panel by RT-PCR is listed in the table below. Additional information regarding influenza test recommendations can be found on the CDC website : www.cdc.gov/H1N1FLU
For questions regarding the information in this test update contact: Bettyann Senf, Director-Laboratory
Operations at (703) 268-1115 or Customer Service at (703) 222-2313.
Influenza A&B screen
Test code: 7239
Specimen requirements:
Nasal washing or swab, throat swab in viral transport media (M4 media)
Note: only polyester tipped swabs with aluminum or plastic shafts are acceptable.
Stability: 3 days refrigerated
Transport: Refrigerated
TAT: 24 hrs/ next day
CPT code: 87400 x 2
Influenza H1N1 (Swine Flu) by RT-PCR
Test code: 7237
Specimen requirements:
Nasal washing or swab, throat swab in viral transport media (M4 media)
Note: only polyester tipped swabs with aluminum or plastic shafts are acceptable.
Stability: Ambient – 3 days , Refrigerated – 2 weeks
Transport: Ambient or Refrigerated
TAT: 3-5 days
CPT code: 87798
Influenza A,B, H1N1 Panel by RT- PCR
Test code: 7238
Specimen requirements:
Nasal washing or swab, throat swab in viral transport media (M4 media)
Note: only polyester tipped swabs with aluminum or plastic shafts are acceptable.
Stability: Ambient – 3 days, Refrigerated – 2 weeks
Transport: Ambient / Refrigerated
TAT: 3-5 days
CPT code: 87798 x 3