Geisinger Medical Laboratories Test Catalog

Order Display Name: Geisinger Epic Procedure Code Or ID CPT Code:  

GROUP A STREP PCR

Geisinger Epic Procedure Code: LAB2387             Geisinger Epic ID: 44143
       

SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Specimen type:
Throat
Preferred collection container:
Alternate Collection Container:
ESwab
Special notes:
If ordering a Group A Strep PCR in conjunction with Rapid Strep testing, use Group A Strep Combo.
If requesting Group A Strep PCR only, use eSwab.

See Microbiology Collection Appendix for collection instructions. Flocked swab should be used for GASPCR collection. Dry swab should be used for rapid Group A Strep testing. Check expiration date on transport devices before use.


SPECIMEN PROCESSING
Specimen processing instructions:
If throat specimen is accidently collected on the dry swab for GASPCR testing, immediately place the swab in an ESwab transport tube. (Must be done within 24 hours from collection.) 
Transport temperature:
Room temperature (15-30°C)
Specimen stability:
ESwab specimen: 72 hours at room temperature (2-25°C acceptable)
Dry swab: 24 hours at room temperature (2-25° acceptable); when placed in ESwab transport, 72 hours at room temperature (2-25°C acceptable).
Rejection criteria:
Improperly labeled/identified specimen. Expired collection/transport device. Collection of specimen with non-approved swab type. Specimen which exceeds stability limits. Improper specimen type.

TEST DETAILS
Reference interval:
Negative. No Group A Streptococcus detected by PCR (Amplified Probe).
Critical values/courtesy alerts:
Positive. Group A Streptococcus detected by PCR (Amplified Probe).
CPT code(s):
87651
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:
Molecular detection of Group A Streptococcus
Methodology:
Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Synonyms:
Strep Screen, Strep throat, Beta Strep Group A, DNA Probe, PCR, Group A culture, Streptococcus pyogenes, Strep culture, Molecular detection, Molecualar Probe
GASPCR
Clinical significance:
Group A Streptococcus is a causitive agent of acute pharyngitis. Although rare, untreated Group A Streptococcus pharyngitis may progress to suppurative or nonsuppurative sequelae.
Doctoral Director(s:)
Donna Wolk PhD, D(ABMM), Raquel Martinez, PhD, D(ABMM)    
Review Date: 12/31/2022

Performing Locations

Geisinger Medical Center

Performing laboratory: Microbiology
Technical Lead: Francis Tomashefski
Frequency: Monday-Friday: 0600 and 1700, Saturday 06:00 and 20:00, Sunday 19:00
Performed STAT? No
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