Sign in →

Test Code 145 Influenza A and B Antigens

Important Note

The specimen must be labeled with the patient’s name, date of birth, collection date, time and initials of the person who collected the specimen.

Additional Codes

ALAB: FLURAPID

 

Test Method

Qualitative Immunoassay, ImmunoCard, Meridian

Specimen Requirement

Nasal/Nasopharyngeal swabs: Flocked swab included with ImmunoCard kit (obtained from the laboratory).

 

Additional Specimen Collection Information

Specimen Collection Procedures:

Nasal Swabs:

  1. The only type of swabs that can be used for this procedure are the flocked swabs that are included in this kit. 
  2. Gently insert the flocked swab approximately 1/4"  into the anterior nares (just inside the nasal orifice).          
  3. Rotate the swab a few times, and repeat in the second nostril, using the same swab.   
  4. Remove the swab and place back into the appropriately labeled paper wrapper for transport to the lab.

Nasopharyngeal Swabs:

  1. The only type of swabs that can be used for this procedure are the flocked swabs that are included in the kit.
  2. While gently inserting the flocked swab into the nostril, rotating the swab inward until resistance is met at the level of the turbinates.
  3. Rotate the swab a few times against the nasopharyngeal wall and then withdraw the swab.
  4. Place the swab back into the appropriately labeled paper wrapper for transport to the lab.

Samples are tested as soon as possible after collection. Do not use any kind of transport media to store or transport samples. Specimens may be stored for up to 8 hours refrigerated at 2-8°C, or at room temperature for up to 4 hours.

Performance

Testing is performed Monday through Sunday.

Routine orders: Typically completed within 4 hours after specimen arrives at the testing site.

Expedite: Typically completed within 1 hour after specimen arrives at the testing site.

STAT: Typically completed within 30 minutes after specimen arrives at the testing site.

 

Reference Values

Influenza A Antigen: Not present

Influenza B Antigen: Not present

CPT Code Information

87804 Detection Infectious Agent by Immunoassay with Direct Optical Observation: Influenza

Useful For

Aiding in the diagnosis of influenza

LOINC Code Information

24015-0 Influenza Virus A+B Ag [Presence] In Unspecified Specimen

Related Tests