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Test Code LAB2626 Clostridium Difficile Toxin by PCR w/ Reflex to Toxin EIA

Additional Codes:

C DIFF PCR

Notes:

Submit only one specimen per 7 days per patient.

Unacceptable specimens:

  • Stool submitted in a preservative or transport media
  • Formed stool that fails to take the shape of the collection container

Collection:

Specimen: Random Stool.  Specimen must be liquid or loose and take the shape of the collection container.   See Bristol Stool Chart Type 6 and 7.

Container: Sterile container. No Preservatives.

Volume: 1 mL minimum

Storage Instructions:

Specimen stability: Room Temp: 2 days; Refrigerated: 3 days.  Freeze specimen beyond 3 days. 

Turnaround Time (TAT):

Stat – 2 hours;  Routine – 4 hours

Test Availability:

24 hours / 7 days a week

Request Form:

Microbiology – Green Request Form

Send To:

UMC MAIN LABORATORY Specimen Receiving – EH318 Children’s Hospital

Reference Interval:

Negative for the presence of toxin-producing C. difficile by PCR.

Interpretive Data:

The assay is performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the qualitative detection of the C. difficile toxin B gene.

NEGATIVE = Negative for the presence of toxin-producing C. difficile by PCR.

POSITIVE = Positive for the presence of toxin-producing C. difficile by PCR and positive for C. difficile toxin by EIA suggestive of active C. difficile infection. Isolation required.

DISCORDANT = Discordant results, positive for the presence of toxin-producing C. difficile by PCR and negative for presence of C. difficile toxin by EIA. May represent colonization (carrier) or true infection. Clinical correlation required to determine significance. Consider an Infectious Disease consult if needed. Isolation required.