Worm Identification

Laboratory Fee Schedule
Procedure #: MPAR011A
CPT: 87169

Synonym(s):	Parasitology; Helminth identification; Worm ID, Ascariasis, Ascaris lumbricoides, Diphyllobothrium latum, Diphyllobothriasis, Pinworm, Enterobius vermicularis, Enterobiasis, Soil transmitted helminth, helminth, Tapeworm, Cysticercosis, Taenia sp., Hymenolepis sp., Trichuris trichiura, Trichuriasis, whipworm, roundworm, hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ascariasis, Echinococcus sp., Echinococcosis, fluke
Requisition Form	G-2B
Test Description	Morphological examination for the identification of helminths
Pre-Approval Needed	N/A
Supplemental Information Required	Specific source of specimen and method of collection/collection site
Supplemental Form(s)	N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources)	Human
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing	Intestinal tract Other body sites less frequently Suspected helminth
Minimum Volume/Size Required	N/A
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping	Ambient temperature
Transport Medium	70% ethanol (preferred) or 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 handling as infectious agent using universal precautions triple-contained in accordance with federal shipping regulations for infectious agents as Biological Substance Category B at ambient temperature
Method	Macroscopic and microscopic examination Lacto-phenol clearing may be performed, if necessary
Turn-around Time	3 days
Interferences/Limitations	Poor preservation or handling may contribute to specimen degradation
Common Causes for Rejection	No specimen received Expired media No identifiers on containers Desiccated or degraded specimen
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.