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Test Code LAB1319 Crypto & Giardia

Important Note

This is usually the test that is ordered when a doctor requests an Ova and Parasite.

Ask the patient if they have been out of the domestic United States within the previous year or if they are immunocompromised..  If the patient has been out of the domestic United States within the previous year, or if they are immunocompromised or if the doctor has a special request, Ova and Parasite can be ordered.

Additional Codes

CPT Codes: 87328 and 87329

Methodology

Antigen based lateral flow immunoassay

Includes detection of Cryptosporidium and Giardia.

Order this test on all inpatients with an Ova and Parasites order unless patient has traveled internationally or if a parasitic enteric organism other than Giardia or Cryptosporidium is suspected.

Performing Laboratory and Testing Schedule

TidalHealth Peninsula Regional - Microbiology

Testing is performed daily.

Specimen Requirements

To assure recovery of parasitic elements which are passed intermittently, 3 specimens spaced a few days apart must be submitted and examined.

 

Collect stool specimen passed into a bedpan. Alternatively, a large, plastic bag or plastic wrap stretched over toilet seat opening can be used for collection. (Improperly labeled specimen, insufficient specimen, specimen contaminated with barium, paper, or urine, specimen in leaky container, or specimens collected on same day is not acceptable.) Place stool specimen in clean, leak proof, plastic container.

 

Note: Patient should avoid use of antacids, barium, bismuth, anti-diarrheal medication (ie, loperamide or Pepto Bismol) or oily laxatives prior to collection.

 

Transport specimen refrigerated.

Reference Values

Negative