Viral Culture, Rapid, Influenza A and Influenza B Virus
Also known as: Culture, Viral, Influenza Virus, Flu Culture, Influenza Virus Culture
Use
Isolate and identify influenza virus as an etiologic agent in cases of influenza and viral pneumonia
Special Instructions
Submit one specimen per test requested. Specify the exact specimen source/origin (e.g., nasopharynx). Indicate a specific test number on the test request form. Do not use transport devices beyond their expiration date. If reflex testing is performed, concomitant CPT codes/charges will apply.
Limitations
This culture is specifically for the isolation of influenza A and influenza B; other viral agents will not routinely be detected. CPT coding for microbiology and virology procedures often cannot be determined before the culture is performed. If a virus other than those specified is recovered, an additional charge for identification will apply. Improper handling of specimens, prolonged transport delay, or use of expired or inappropriate transport devices may lead to rejection.
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6604-3
- 6604-3
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Nasopharyngeal Swab
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Viral transport medium for swabs
Collection Instructions
See Virus Culture, General [008573].
Storage Instructions
Specimens should be placed into viral transport medium and kept cold at all times. Do not freeze specimens.
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; unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and test request label