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Test Code
CAT
Test Name
Catheter Tip Culture
CPT Codes
87070
Included Tests
  • Aerobic culture
  • Identification and susceptibility testing if applicable. Additional CPT codes may apply.
Clinical Utility

Infected intravascular catheters are subject to colonization by cutaneous organisms and exposed to sterile spaces. In cases where patients are febrile or have positive blood cultures with no obvious source of infection, catheter tip cultures may be utilized.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen: Catheter Tip

Collection Container: Sterile Container

Note: Specimen should be ≥ 2 inches in length.

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.
Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

24 hours

Refrigerated

48 hours
Methodology
Culture with reflex to additional methods for identification and susceptibility if warranted
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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