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Test Code LAB906 Pneumocystis (DFA)

Performing Laboratory

Barnes-Jewish Hospital Laboratory

Methodology

Direct Fluorescent Antigen (DFA)

Specimen Requirements

Acceptable Specimens:Bronchoalveolar lavage, bronchial washing, induced sputum: ≥2 mL in a leakproof screw-capped, sterile container
 

Unacceptable Specimens:

Expectorated sputum and tracheal aspirates. Tissue (Send tissue specimens to histopathology.)

 

Collection Procedure:

1. Aseptically collect ≥2 mL of specimen.

2. Place specimen in a leakproof screw-capped, sterile container.
3. Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

4. If transport is delayed, refrigerate specimen.
Note: Specimen source is required.

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday
Cut-off time: 0900


Turnaround Time:
STAT: not available
Routine: results available the day of testing

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87281

Reference Values

The fluorescein-labeled monoclonal antibodies specifically stain cysts of Pneumocystis jirovecii (P. carinii). The test is very specific and has a reported sensitivity of 50% to 80% with induced sputum and 90% to 95% with bronchoalveolar lavage.

 

Literature Reference:

Cushion MT. Pneumocystis. In: Versalovic, James, Carroll, KC, Jorgensen JH, et al. Manual of clinical microbiology. 11th ed. Washington DC: American Society for Microbiology; 2015;2015-2026.

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient/Refrigerate if transport is delayed

Additional Information

For BJH Laboratory Use Only

 

Minimum Volume:

0.5 mL in a leakproof screw-capped, sterile container


Laboratory Processing Instructions:
Test performed in BJH Microbiology.