Acid-Fast Stain

Laboratory Fee Schedule

Procedure: MPAR003A

CPT: 87207 

Synonym(s):

Parasitology; Parasite; Cryptosporidium; Cryptosporidiosis; Cyclosporiasis; Cyclospora; Cystoisospora; Cystoisosporiasis

Requisition Form

G-2B

Test Description

Microscopic morphological examination for the detection and identification of coccidian protozoa, including CryptosporidiumCyclospora, and Cystoisospora

Pre-Approval Needed

N/A

Supplemental Information Required

N/A

Supplemental Form(s)

N/A

Performed on Specimens from (sources)

Human  

Sample/Specimen Type for Testing

Human Feces preserved in 10% formalin

Minimum Volume/Size Required

Approximately 5 mL

Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping

Ambient temperature

Transport Medium

10% formalin

Specimen Labeling

  • Two patient-specific identifiers required (e.g., patient full name, date of birth, Medical record number)
  • Identifiers on specimen must exactly match submission form

Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements

   Ship samples: 

 

  • According to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49 
  • As Biological Substance Category B
  • Handling as infectious agent using universal precautions
  • Triple-contained in accordance with federal shipping regulations for infectious agents
  • At ambient temperature

Method

Microscopic examination of an acid-fast stained smear (modified Ziehl-Neelsen method)

Turn-around Time

3 days

Interferences/Limitations

  • Like standard O&P exams, it is recommended that an examination for coccidian protozoa include 2-3 specimens collected every other day
  • Antibiotics may diminish the numbers of protozoa

Common Causes for Rejection

  • No specimen received
  • Expired media
  • No identifiers on containers
  • No preservative in vial

Additional Information

  • Call Medical Parasitology at 512-776-7560 with questions about specimen collection and handling. 
  • Call Lab Reporting at 512-776-7578 with questions about submission forms. 
  • Call Specimen Acquisition at 512-776-7569 with questions about shipping.