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Worm Identification

Laboratory Fee Schedule
Procedure #:  MPAR011A
CPT: 87169
 

Synonym(s): Parasitology; Helminth identification; Worm ID, Ascariasis, Ascaris lumbricoides, Diphyllobothrium latum, Diphyllobothriasis, Pinworm, Enterobius vermicularis, Enterobiasis, Soil transmitted helminth, helminth, Tapeworm, Cysticercosis, Taenia sp., Hymenolepis sp.,  Trichuris trichiura,  Trichuriasis, whipworm, roundworm, hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, Ascariasis,  Echinococcus sp., Echinococcosis, fluke
Requisition Form G-2B.
Test Description Morphological examination for the identification of helminths.
Pre-Approval Needed N/A
Supplemental Information Required Specific source of specimen and method of collection/collection site.
Supplemental Form(s) N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources) Human
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing
  • Intestinal tract 
  • Other body sites less frequently 
  • Suspected helminth
Minimum Volume/Size Required N/A
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping Ambient temperature
Transport Medium 70% ethanol (preferred) or 10% formalin
Specimen Labeling
  • Two patient-specific identifiers required (e.g., patient full name, date of birth, Medical record number)
  • Identifiers on specimen must exactly match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements Ship samples: 
  • According to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49
  • Handling as infectious agent using universal precautions.
  • Triple-contained in accordance with federal shipping regulations for infectious agents.
  • As Biological Substance Category B 
  • At ambient temperature
Method
  • Macroscopic and microscopic examination
  • Lacto-phenol clearing may be performed, if necessary
Turn-around Time 3 days.
Interferences/Limitations Poor preservation or handling may contribute to specimen degradation.
Common Causes for Rejection
  • No specimen received.
  • Expired media 
  • No identifiers on containers 
  • Desiccated or degraded specimen
Additional Information
  • Call Medical Parasitology at 512-776-7560 with questions about specimen collection and handling. 
  • Call Lab Reporting at 512-776-7578 with questions about submission forms. 
  • Call Specimen Acquisition at 512-776-7569 with questions about shipping.