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Proven Diagnostics Test Catalog

NOCARDIA SMEAR AND CULTURE
Test code:	NCRD
Specimen type:	Body fluids, bone, respiratory secretions, tissue, wounds.
Tube type / collection container:	ESwab
Specimen collection notes:	Preferred device is the ESwab. Sterile specimen container, anaerobic transport media (ATM), collection trap, C&S preservative tube, BD CultureSwab, BD CultureSwab Plus, Health Link Transport Sterile Liquid Stuart, Amies or Stuarts Liquid Stuarts Swabs, and Amies Gel Swabs are also acceptable. A fungal smear will be performed on most clinical specimens when possible. See Microbiology Collection Appendix for collection instructions. Check expiration date on transport device before use.
What to submit:	Listed collection device at room temperature.
Patient preparation:	None.
Specimen Processing Instructions:	None.
Transport temperature:	Room temperature (18-25°C).
Specimen stability:	Culture Swab Plus: Room temperature 72 hours. Specimen in ATM: Room temperature 72 hours. Sterile container: Room temperature or 2-8°C 24 hours.
Rejection criteria:	Improperly labeled/identified specimen. Expired collection/transport device. Quantity of specimen insufficient. Frozen specimens. Specimens in formalin. Delay in transport.
Reference range:	No aerobic actinomycetes isolated.
Alert limits:	Specific aerobic actinomycete isolate.
Additional information:	None.
CPT code(s):	87205, 87081
	Note: The billing party has sole responsibility for CPT coding.  Any questions regarding coding should be directed to the payer being billed.  The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only.
When performed:	Daily, all shifts
Test includes:	Isolation and identification of aerobic actinomycetes. Additional charges may apply.
Methodology:	Culture Smear
Clinical Significance:	Detection and identification of aerobic actinomycetes can assist in the determination of clinical disease and guide appropriate therapy when required.