Update Type: Test Resumed
Test Updated: 07/19/2023
Test Overview
Test Methodology

Real-time PCR

Test Usage

Establish the diagnosis of Legionella infection.

Reference Range *

No Legionella DNA detected.

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

Test Limitations

The presence of Legionella does not preclude the existence of other microorganisms or another underlying condition as the causative agent of a patient's symptoms. Results of this test should be interpreted along with other clinical and laboratory data.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Set up alternating days.
Allow 48 hour turn around time
Analytic Time

1 day

Soft Order Code
PCRLG
Laboratory
Microbiology
Section
Microbiology
Specimen Requirements
Collection Instructions

Collect lower respiratory specimen in a non-polystyrene sterile tube or container. Acceptable specimens include bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), sputum (induced sputum is preferred), and tracheal aspirate. Refrigerate immediately after specimen collection. May be refrigerated up to 24 hrs. If an unacceptable specimen is received, the client will be notified and another specimen will be requested.

Normal Volume
5 mL fluid or sputum
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL fluid or sputum
Storage Temperature
2-8° C
Billing
CPT Code
87541, 87798
Fee Code
LA014, LA013
LOINC
49616-6