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Test Code

CTFLU

Test Name

VIRAL CULTURE, RAPID, INFLUENZA

CPT Codes

87254 X 2

Expected Turnaround Time

2 - 4 days

Clinical Utility

Isolate and identify influenza virus as an etiologic agent in cases of influenza and viral pneumonia.

Specimen and Container Info

Collection Instructions

Specimen Type	Collection Instructions
Throat Swab	Carefully rub the posterior wall of the nasopharynx with a dry, sterile swab. Avoid touching the tongue or buccal mucosa. Place swab in viral transport tube.
Nasopharyngal (NP) swab	Collect a NP swab utilizing an UTM or VTM.
Washings, Sputum, and BAL	Collect specimen in a sterile container.

Processing and Submission Instructions

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

Stability Requirements

Refrigerated

7 days

Causes for Rejection

Bacterial swab specimen
Specimen received in grossly leaking transport container
Dry specimen
Specimen submitted in fixative or additive
Specimen received in expired transport medium or incorrect transport device
Inappropriate specimen transport conditions
Specimen received after prolonged delay in transport (usually more than 72 hours)
Wooden shaft swab in transport device

Methodology

Varies By Test

Reference Intervals

See patient report.

Alternate Names

Reference Lab

Labcorp Of America Holdings

Testing Schedule

Varies

Reflex Tests

VSIDT