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Test Code LAB7126 Bacterial Vaginosis Stain

Performing Laboratory

Barnes-Jewish Hospital Laboratory - Microbiology

Methodology

Gram stain with interpretation by Nugent's criteria

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Turnaround time:

STAT: Not available

Routine: results available in 4 hours from time received in laboratory

Reference Values

Gram stain indicates normal vaginal flora, not suggestive of bacterial vaginosis.

 

Literature Reference:

Nugent, R. P., Krohn, M. A. , Hillier, S.L. (1991). Reliablility of diagnosing bacterial vaginosis is improved by standardized method of Gram stain interpretation. Jornal of Clinical Microbiology, 29, 297-301.

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient

Refrigerated NO / Frozen NO

Additional Information

For BJH Laboratory Use Only

Specimen stability: Eswab - 48 hours; Glass slide - 72 hours

Unacceptable specimens: Specimen received on a glass slide with a coverslip

Specimen Requirements

Acceptable specimens: 

Eswab - Vaginal

Vaginal specimen on glass slide with coverslip

 

Patient Preparation:

None

 

Collection Procedure - Eswab, vaginal

  1. Use a flocked Eswab to collect vaginal fluid from the posterior vaginal walls or posterior fornix.
  2. Return Eswab into transport tube, following instructions on kit.
  3. Label tube with at least two patient identifiers or PPID label.
  4. Maintain sterility and transport to laboratory promptly at room temperature.

 

Collection Procedure - Vaginal specimen on glass slide:

  1. Use a swab to collect vaginal fluid from the posterior vaginal walls or posterior fornix.
  2. Transfer a dime-sized portion of secretions to a clean, dry glass slide.
  3. Allow slide to air dry. DO NOT COVERSLIP.
  4. Label the frosted end of the slide with patient's full name and date of birth.
  5. Place slide in a plastic slide transport container.
  6. Label transport container with at least two patient identifiers or PPID label.

 

Test Limitations:

Gram stain for the diagnosis of BV has not been validated on premenarchal girls or postmenopausal women.

Test Classification and CPT Codes

87205