Test Overview

Test Methodology

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Test Usage

Establish diagnosis of pertussis (whooping cough).

Reference Range*

No Bordetella pertussis/parapertussis DNA detected.

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Limitations

The test should be performed only on patients with symptoms and clinical presentation consistent with pertussis. This test should not be used as a screening test, or for identification of "exposed individuals". False positive results are possible when testing asymptomatic colonized individuals. Cross-reactivity has been shown to occur with Bordetella holmseii, but the clinical significance of this is unknown.

Test Details

Days Test Performed

Daily, once per day (specimen must be received by lab no later than 10:00 am to be included in daily run)

Analytic Time

1 day

Soft Order Code

PCRBP

MiChart Code

Bordetella pertussis / parapertussis PCR, Nasopharynx

Synonyms

Laboratory

Microbiology

Looking to Order a Test?

We’ve provided helpful links to make ordering easy.

Find a Requisition

All specimens should be accompanied by a requisition.

Submitting Specimens

Learn about how to properly label and where to ship specimens.

Order Kits and Supplies

MLabs provides all the supplies necessary for the collection of specimens.

Test FAQ

Visit our provider FAQ and learn about common questions to ordering tests.

Specimen Requirements

Rejection Criteria

NP swabs transported on Regan-Lowe or other transports with charcoal, or collected in BD ESwab kit are unacceptable.

Container

Normal Volume

1 mini-tip or regular flocked swab or NP swab

Minimum Volume

1 mini-tip or regular flocked swab or NP swab

Additional Information

PCR test includes DNA detection for Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis.

Billing Information

Fee Codes

CPT Code

87801

LOINC

41875-6

Have More Billing Questions?

Explore our helpful billing resources:

Billing Resources

Billing FAQ