Vanderbilt Pathology Laboratory Services
Test Directory
INFLUENZA A H1N1 PCR (H1N)
Department: Molecular Infectious DiseaseTest Synonym(s): H1N, FLU A H1N1 RNA PCR
CPT Codes: 87502, 87503
Methodology: PCR - Polymerase Chain Reaction for H1N1, seasonal H1 and H3 influenza virus strains
Reference Range: Not detected
Tube Type: Sterile container - swab
Specimen: Nasal washing, nasal secretions, nasopharyngeal swabs in Viral Transport Media
Alternate Specimen: Need Medical Director approval
Pediatric Requirements: Nasal washing, nasal secretions, nasopharyngeal swabs in Viral Transport Media
Volume: 0.500 ML
Minimum Volume: 0.200 ML
Temperature: Room temperature: same day, Refrigerated: overnight, Frozen: longer than overnight
Stability: Room temperature: same day, Refrigerated: overnight, Frozen: longer than overnight
Reasons for Rejection: Alternative specimen sent without Medical Director approval
Days Performed: Monday, Wednesday and Friday
Times Performed: Once per day
TAT: 24 hours
Significance: Testing includes typing of H1N1 as well as seasonal H1 and seasonal H3. Emergence of the novel swine-origin H1N1 pandemic influenza A virus in the United States has lead to severe respiratory illness especially among children, pregnant women and other high-risk groups. Detection and differentiation of pandemic H1N1 influenza A virus will be useful for clinical decision making.
Special Instructions: Other sources or samples may be acceptable for this test; please check with the lab, 615-936-6435.
Click here to print the Molecular Diagnostics requisition.
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