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Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

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CULTURE GROUP B STREP

Geisinger Epic Procedure Code:  LAB2118    Geisinger Epic ID:  14603

SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Specimen type: 

Vaginal/rectal swab


Preferred collection container: 
Specimen required: 

One swab


Special notes: 

This test is not the primary testing procedure from vaginal/rectal specimens. The GPB Strep Culture/PCR (GRBS) is recommended. Check expiration date on transport device before use.



SPECIMEN PROCESSING
Transport temperature: 

Room temperature


Specimen stability: 

< 72 hours


Rejection criteria: 

Improperly labeled/identified specimen. Swabs in Aptima® media. Grossly contaminated specimen. Expired transport device/swab. Delay in transport or transport at the wrong temperature.



TEST DETAILS
Reference interval: 

No Group B streptococci isolated


Critical values/courtesy alerts: 
Group B streptococci isolated
CPT code(s):  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 by GML are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only.

Test includes: 

Isolation, identification, and semiquantitation of Group B streptococci. Bacterial identification performed as appropriate. Additional charges may apply. Susceptibility testing performed on positive specimens from penicillin allergic patients. Additional charges may apply.


Methodology: 
Culture
Synonyms: 

GROUP B STREP CULTURE, GBS, GRPBC, GROUP B, STREP AGALACTIAE, CULTURE


Clinical significance: 

Use to detect the presence of Group B streptococcus in pregnant women. Test results can be used to guide use of antibiotics at delivery.


Doctoral Director(s): 
Donna Wolk PhD, D(ABMM)
Raquel Martinez, PhD, D(ABMM)
Review Date:  12/31/2024

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