Sign in →

Test Code LAB000 MISC TEST (STATE LEGION) Culture, Legionella, with Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA)

Important Note

This test is only orderable by the laboratory.  To request this test in EPIC, please order LAB000 MISCELLANEOUS TEST.  Fill out appropriate prompts and request the test "Legionella culture". 

If you need further assistance, please contact the laboratory at 406-414-5010.

Because examination by rapid PCR increases sensitivity and provides faster results, Bozeman Health Laboratory strongly recommends also ordering LAB001 MAYO MISC Legionella species, Molecular Detection, PCR.

Useful For

The diagnosis of Legionnaire's disease

Methodology

Conventional Culture/Direct Immunofluorescent Stain

Performing Laboratory

Montana State Public Health Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

Call Bozeman Health Laboratory Services at 414-2116 to notify laboratory that this organism is suspected.  Specimen source is required.

 

Specimen Type: Fresh or frozen lung tissue, pleural fluid, bronchial washings, trans-tracheal aspirates, chest drainage, BAL, or sputum

Container/Tube: Sterile, leak-proof container

Specimen Minimum Volume: 1 mL

Collection Instructions:

  1. Put a minimum of 1 mL specimen in a sterile, leak-proof container.
  2. Label container with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and source of specimen.
  3. Transport on ice in an insulated container. 

Specimen Rejection:

1. Nasal secretion

2. Saliva

3. 24-hour collection

Additional Information

  • Both a DFA test and culture is performed on each primary specimen received.
  • Avoid contaminating bronchoscope with tap water.  Saprophytic mycobacteria may produce false-positive culture or smear results.

Specimen Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Varies Refrigerated 48 hours
  Frozen 2 weeks

 

Reference Values

Negative

 

Significant results are telephoned to the submitter

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Friday

 

Turnaround Time: 14 days

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87081-Culture

87278-Smear

87077-Aerobic identification (if appropriate)