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HelpBordetella Multitarget PCR (pertussis / parapertussis / holmesii)
Infectious
Specimen Required
Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal swab
* DO NOT submit a throat or nares specimen
Container / Tube: Sterile container without transport media
* Specimens in any kind of transport media will be rejected
CPT Code
87801: Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid amplification, multiple organisms
Special Instructions
Transport Temperature: Ambient or 2 - 8°C
PCR testing should be performed only on symptomatic patients; a positive PCR in an asymptomatic patient does not meet the standard CDC case definition and cannot be considered a case of pertussis.
PCR testing may be able to detect B. pertussis 3 to 4 weeks post onset, and after antibiotic therapy has been initiated.
Testing Schedule
Specimens are transported to the Montana Public Health Laboratory in Helena Monday thru Friday prior to testing.
Days Performed: Monday through Friday
Turn-around Time: 1 to 2 working days