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Test Code CSFC Culture, Spinal Fluid, w/ Gram Stain

Additional Codes

EPIC: LAB268

Methodology

Conventional Culture Technique and Gram Stain
Identification and susceptibility testing will automatically be performed on appropriate pathogens at an additional charge.
Used in the detection and identification of common bacteria and yeast.

Performing Laboratory

St. Joseph Hospital

Specimen Requirements

1. Submit ≥1 mL of spinal fluid (from third vial drawn in a series of 3) in a screw-capped, sterile vial.
2. Label vial with patient’s full name (first, last, and middle initial), medical record number (if available), date and time of collection, location of patient, type of specimen, and order in which vials were drawn.
3. Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

Note:  1. See “Microbiology” in “Special Instructions.”

2. Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

Reference Values

No growth

Panic value:  all positives

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87070 - culture
87205 - Gram stain
87077 - identification (if appropriate)
87186 - susceptibility, each (if appropriate)

Special Instructions