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Test Code
QTBSP
Test Name
T-SPOT TB
CPT Codes
86481
Expected Turnaround Time
2 - 3 days
Clinical Utility
The T-SPOT®.TB test is an in vitro diagnostic test for the detection of effector T cells that respond to stimulation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens ESAT-6 and CFP 10 by capturing interferon gamma (IFN-g) in the vicinity of T cells in human whole blood collected in lithium heparin. It is intended for use as an aid in the diagnosis of M.tuberculosis infection. The T-SPOT®.TB test is an indirect test for M.tuberculosis infection (including disease) and is intended for use in conjunction with risk assessment, radiography and other medical and diagnostic evaluations.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Collection Container: Green Top (Lithium Heparin)

Alternate Collection Container: Green Top (Sodium Heparin)

Desired Specimen Volume: Adults and children >=10 years: 6 mL

Pediatric 2-9 years of age: 4 mL

Pediatric <2 years of age: 2 mL
Collection Instructions

Testing requires special attention to specimen collection and shipping in order to ensure the integrity of the sample. Testing is by appointment only.

  1. Collect whole blood in green top (lithium heparin) tube via venipuncture
  2. If a 9 mL lithium heparin (green- top) tube is not available, call referral testing to obtain the collection tube.
  3. Only draw Monday- Thursday by 12:00.

GEL BARRIER TUBES ARE NOT ACCEPTED
Processing and Submission Instructions
  1. Transport 6 mL of whole blood in the original collection container.
  2. If multiple tubes are collected, rubber band specimens together.
  3. Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.  
Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

54 hours
Causes for Rejection
  • Anticoagulants other than lithium heparin or sodium heparin
  • Hemolysis
  • Centrifuged
  • Specimens collected on weekends
Methodology
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent (ELISPOT) Assay
Reference Intervals

See patient report.
Limitations

Do not draw the day before a FedEx limited service day, which may include holidays or inclement weather events.
Reference Lab
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute
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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