Pneumocystis jirovecii DFA with Reflex to Pneumocystis jirovecii by PCR

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR62564Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 2009226CPT Codes 87015, 87281, 87594

Pneumocystis jirovecii DFA with Reflex to Pneumocystis jirovecii by PCR

Also known as: PNEUMST R

Clinical Use

Order Test

Use

This test is used for the rapid identification of Pneumocystis jirovecii. If the initial Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) stain is negative, the test reflexes to PCR testing for confirmation. The test is particularly significant for diagnosing Pneumocystis pneumonia in patients, where sensitivity depends on the patient population and specimen type. It aids in distinguishing Pneumocystis jirovecii infection from other causes of respiratory issues.

Special Instructions

Specimen source is required for test processing. If the initial DFA test is negative, an additional PCR test will be conducted, which incurs additional charges. The test is New York state approved, ensuring its availability for use in New York hospitals and laboratories.

Limitations

A negative DFA result does not exclude the possibility of infection by Pneumocystis jirovecii. False-negative results may occur due to sampling errors or a low number of organisms in the specimen, which can affect the detection capability of both DFA and PCR testing. Formalin-fixed tissues, slides, or swabs are not acceptable for this test, potentially limiting specimen collection options.

Test Details

New York Approved

Methodology

Immunoassay (Other, PCR-based)

Biomarkers

Pneumocystis jirovecii

Microorganism

Presence/Absence • Other • Binary (Detected / Not Detected)

Result Turnaround Time

1-6 days

Specimen

Bronchoalveolar Lavage

Volume

5 mL

Minimum Volume

1 mL

Container

sterile container

Collection Instructions

Collect respiratory specimen: Bronchial washing, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), or induced sputum. Transfer 5 mL respiratory specimen to a sterile container.