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labinfo@dshs.texas.gov

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Specimen Receiving
Monday-Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Phone: 512-776-7598

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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 Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, 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.