Test Code LAB2447 Genital Smear and Culture
Additional Codes
CPT Code: 87070
Methodology
Applies to cervical culture and smear, urethral culture and smear, and vaginal culture and smear.
Antibiotic susceptibility testing is not performed on Neisseria gonorrhoeae, but susceptibility to penicillin is checked via beta-lactamase testing.
Performing Laboratory
TidalHealth Peninsula Regional - Microbiology
Specimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive within 24 hours of collection.
Acceptable Specimens:
Cervix, urethra, or vagina
1. Collect specimen using a culture transport swab. (Improperly labeled specimen, dry swab, refrigerated specimen, or specimen received >24 hours of collection is not acceptable.)
2. Return swab to culture transport tube.
3. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), date and time of collection, type of specimen, and collector’s initials.
4. Forward promptly at ambient temperature only. Do not refrigerate.
Note: Specimen source is required.
Reference Values
Normal flora
Critical value (automatic call-back): positive for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (inpatient)