TEST CHANGE

 

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), PCR

Order Code:                 COVID

CPT Code:                   87635

 

Effective March 9, 2021, MLabs will offer saliva as specimen type for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), PCR (COVID) testing.

 

Test Usage: Based on literature review and in-house evaluation of saliva samples collected in parallel with nasopharyngeal swabs, saliva approaches, but may not equal, the sensitivity of nasopharyngeal samples for detection of SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, saliva is recommended for use in patients for whom it improves access to SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing. In situations where maximum sensitivity is needed for patient care or infection prevention, a nasopharyngeal swab sample is recommended.

 

Collection instructions: DO NOT eat, drink, chew gum, or smoke for 30 minutes prior to sample collection. If possible, drink a glass of water 45-60 minutes prior to collection. Gather saliva in your mouth and gently drool into an orange-capped sterile collection cup. The goal is to collect 1 to 5 ml of saliva. At minimum, fill above the ridged line at the bottom of the cup. Bubbles do not count towards the needed volume. This should take 2-5 minutes to get enough sample. Be sure to close the container tightly.

 

Please refer to Michigan Medicine COVID testing guidelines for recommended specimen type based on test indication:

 

http://www.med.umich.edu/asp/pdf/adult_guidelines/COVID-19-testing.pdf