Vanderbilt Pathology Laboratory Services
Test Directory
INFLUENZA A & B ANTIGEN DETECTION (FLG)
Department: VirologyTest Synonym(s): Flu antigen, FLG, Rapid flu antigen
CPT Codes: 87400
Methodology: Immunochromatographic assay; negative antigen on patient or employee reflexes to rapid shell vial culture
Reference Range: Negative, Positive, Indeterminate. A negative result does not rule out infection with influenza.
Tube Type: Wash, aspirate, lavage in sterile leakproof container; flocked swab preferred but dacron/rayon swab accepted in universal transport medium,3ml or 1-2 ml saline
Specimen: Material from respiratory source only; Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab/aspirate/wash or nasal wash preferred
Alternate Specimen: Viral culturette accepted but not preferred.
Volume: 3 mL VTM / saline
Minimum Volume: 1 mL VTM / saline
Temperature: Store refrigerated (2-8° C), do not freeze, transport on wet ice
Stability: Samples older than 24 hours will receive comment
Reasons for Rejection: Non-respiratory source, calcium alginate or wooden-shaft swab, dry swab
Days Performed: Daily
Times Performed: Continuous; Processed ASAP upon request
TAT: 30 minutes - 1 hour
Special Instructions: Send to lab immediately - put swab in VTM - No wooden shaft or calcium alginate tip swabs. Add viral transport medium (VTM) to respiratory trap. Specify source. Negative anitgen results on inpatients and employees confirmed by rapid shell vial culture.
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