Test Directory

Clear All
Test Code
CFR
Test Name
Cystic Fibrosis Culture
CPT Codes
87070
Included Tests
  • Gram Stain
  • Aerobic Culture
  • Identification and susceptibility testing if applicable. Additional CPT codes may apply.
Expected Turnaround Time
10 - 14 days
Clinical Utility
Detects aerobic bacteria that cause disease in patients with cystic fibrosis. Patients with cystic fibrosis may be chronically colonized with some organisms, therefore culture result should be interpreted in conjunction with past culture results and clinical scenario.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen: Upper or Lower Respiratory Tract Specimen

Collection Container: Sterile Container or Eswab

Volume: 2 mL
Collection Instructions
  • Sputum is the specimen of choice.
  • If a swab is collected it should be a deep pharyngeal swab with coughed secretions.
Processing and Submission Instructions
  • This culture should only be used for patients with cystic fibrosis. Workup is specific to patients with anticipated chronic colonization.
  • Specimens are not screened for sputum quality in patients with cystic fibrosis.
Patient Preparation
  • If possible, the patient should be instructed to rinse mouth and gargle with water prior to collection of specimen.
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.
Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

4 hours

Refrigerated

24 hours
Methodology
Culture with reflex to additional methods for identification and susceptibility if warranted
Limitations

Delay in sample processing may impact ability to recover fastidious respiratory pathogens. Please send to the laboratory immediately to avoid any delays.
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Alternate Names
  •  CF Culture
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.
© 2026 HNL Lab Medicine. All rights reserved.