C. diff by PCR

CPT Code

87493

Specimen Type

Stool

Container Type

Sterile Specimen Container

Stability

48 hours Room Temperature; 2-8°C up to 4 days

Handling Instructions

Accept only soft/liquid stool

Clinical Notes

Tests for the toxin genes using nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), typically a PCR method. These tests are rapid and very sensitive methods to confirm the presence of C. difficile toxin gene. When using multi-pathogen (multiplex) molecular methods, the results should be read with caution as the pre-test probability of C. diff infection might be less.

Performing Lab

Principle Laboratory - Houston
16840 Buccaneer Ln
Suite 281
Houston, TX 77058