Test Updated: 11/09/2022
Test Overview
Test Methodology

Real-time PCR

Test Usage

Establish the diagnosis of Pneumocystis jiroveci (carinii) infection.

Reference Range *

No Pneumocystis jiroveci (carinii) DNA detected.

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

Test Limitations

The presence of Pneumocystis jiroveci (carinii) does not preclude the existence of other microorganisms or another underlying condition as the causative agent of a patient's symptoms. Colonization with Pneumocystis jiroverci (carinii) may occur. Results of this test should be interpreted along with other clinical and laboratory data.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily
Analytic Time

1 day

Soft Order Code
PCRPC
MiChart Code
Pneumocystis DNA by PCR, Qualitative
Synonyms
  • Bronchial washing, Pneumocystis
  • Bronchoalveolar lavage, Pneumocystis
  • PCP Examination
  • PNEU
  • Pneumocystis DNA by PCR
  • Sputum, Pneumocystis
  • PCRPCP
  • PNEUMOCYSTIS CARINII DNA (PCR)
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
Refrigerate immediately after collection. May be refrigerated for 24 hours.
Rejection Criteria
Specimens received in polystyrene aliquot tubes are unacceptable and will be rejected. Less than 0.5 mL of fluid will be rejected. If both sputum and BAL are recieved, only the BAL will be processed.
Additional Information

If a sputum and BAL are received, only the BAL will be processed.

Billing
CPT Code
87594
Fee Code
LA043
LOINC
88690-3