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HelpTest Code PJPQB Pneumocystis jiroveci Quantitative Real-time PCR (BAL)
Clinical Indications
Pneumocystis jiroveci (formerly known as Pneumocystis
carinii)
pneumonia is a major cause of illness and death in individuals
with
impaired immune systems. Pneumocystis almost always affects the
lungs, causing a form of pneumonia referred to as PCP. The organism that
causes PCP has
been renamed Pneumocystis jiroveci to reflect
its new classification as a fungus. Quantitative DNA PCR is useful to detect
the organism, track the course of infection, and monitor
response
to treatment.
Additional Test Codes
Epic Order Name: PJP JIROVECI QUANT PCR (aka PJPQB)
Sunquest Order Code: PJPQB
Epic Px Code: LAB7091
Specimen Collection Type
BAL
collected in a sterile, screw top
container
Minimum Collection Volume
0.5 mL
Reference Range
84 copies/mL to 1×10^8 copies/mL
Critical Value
N/A
Interpretation
The primers and probes used in this assay are specific for
known
Pneumocystis jiroveci strains based on similarity search
algorithms. Additionally, no cross reactivity was detected with
any
viral or protozoa pathogens.
Rejection Criteria
Specimens beyond their acceptable length of time from
collection
as listed in the specimen stability, specimens received in trap
containers or specimen types other than bronchoalveolar lavage
(BAL).
Specimen Availability for Add-on Testing
2 Days
Specimen Stability
Ambient (preferred): 4 days
Refrigerated: 4 days
Frozen: 7 days
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
Performing Lab- Department
TUKHS-BH-Mail Outs
CPT Code
87799
LOINC Code
N/A
Test Alias
Pneumocystis carinii PCR (BAL)
Additional Information / Notes
Turnaround time: Same day (within 8 – 12 hours from
receipt of specimen)