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Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

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PINWORM SMEAR

Geisinger Epic Procedure Code:  LAB2851    Geisinger Epic ID:  19410

SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Specimen type: 

Adhesive touch preparation of anal folds


Preferred collection container: 
Specimen required: 

Adhesive touch preparation of anal folds/perianal region using a Pinworm Paddle – Swube sealed with parafilm.


Special notes: 

Clear Scotch tape preprations are also acceptable but are inferior specimens. Check expiration date on transport device before use.


Patient preparation: 

Patient instruction required. See Microbiology Collection Appendix.



SPECIMEN PROCESSING
Transport temperature: 

Room temperature (18-25°C)


Rejection criteria: 

Improperly labeled/identified specimen. Swube heavily contaminated with fecal material. Stool specimens are unacceptable. Frosted cellophane tape.



TEST DETAILS
Reference interval: 

Negative for pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) eggs/adult worms


Critical values/courtesy alerts: 
Positive for pinworm (Enterobius vermicularis) eggs/adult worms
CPT code(s):  87172
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: 

Microscopic exmination for Enterobius vermicularis eggs/adult worms


Methodology: 
Microscopic Examination
Synonyms: 

PINW, Pinworm smear, Pinworm, Stool smear, Enterobius vermicularis, Eggs


Clinical significance: 

Use for microscopic detection of pinworm


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

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