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Buffy Coat Exam for Histoplasma (088-0019)
Test Mnemonic:

 F BC

Specimen Requirements:
Collection:

Using aseptic technique, collect Lavender topped tube (EDTA)

Container:

 EDTA

Minimum Volume:

4ml of whole blood

Storage/Transport:

Transport immediately, room temperature or refrigerated.

Specimen Preparation:

No preparation required

Stability:

24 hours

Causes for Rejection:

Clotted sample. Specimen container unlabeled or labeled incorrectly. No date and time of collection on requisition form.

Reference Range:

Negative

Turnaround Time:

24-48 hours

Methodology:

 Microscopic examination of stained Buffy coat smears to detect yeast cells consistent with Histoplasma capsulatum

Performed:

Clinical Microbiology

Synonyms:

Buffy coat for Histoplasma exam; Histoplasma, blood; Histoplasma capsulatum blood infection; Smear for Histoplasma

Clinical Indication:

Suspected bloodstream infection with Histoplasma

Patient Preparation :

Routine venipuncture

CPT 4 Code:

87206

Note:

An Infectious Disease consult may be required.

Blood culture bottle (Myco/F lytic) is recommended for optimal recovery. Order Buffy coat tests only during acute phase of illness.

When ordering tests for which Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement will be sought, physicians should only order tests that are medically necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of the patient. Components of the organ or disease panels may be ordered individually. The diagnostic information must substantiate all tests ordered and must be in the form of an ICD-10 code or its verbal equivalent.
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