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Test Code SMRSST MRSA/SA Skin and Soft Tissue, PCR LAB2816

Important Note

Interfering substances: inhibition of MRSA/SA SSTI assay has been observed with the following substances: Stapha Septic (5% w/v), Hydrocortisone (5% w/v) and antibacterial hand sanitizer (5% w/v). Samples containing Mercurochrome may not be used due to its fluorescent nature.

Test Method

Polymerization Chain Reaction (PCR)

Performance

Testing performed Monday through Sunday

Typically completed the same day the specimen arrives at the
testing site.

Specimen Requirement

Swab of skin or soft tissue is required us the red-capped double swab.

 

Useful For

Detection of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
in skin or soft tissue specimen.

Reference Values

MRSA rPCR: Negative

  • Important Called Result: Positive

SA rPCR: Negative

  • Important Called Result: Positive

CPT Code Information

87641 Detection of Infectious Agents by Probe Technique:
Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant, amplified probe
technique

LOINC Code Information

35492-8 Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) DNA
[Presence] By Probe And Target Amplification Method

Additional Specimen Collection Information

Obtain a Cepheid sample collection device (Copan double
transport swab).

  1. Open the Cepheid collection device by peeling back the outer
    packaging.
  2. Collect the specimen to be tested using both swabs; do not
    separate swabs.
  3. Twist off the cap of the plastic transfer tube and discard
    it.
  4. Place the swabs into the plastic transport tube.
  5. The swabs should be all the way into the tube until they rest
    on top of the sponge at the bottom of the tube. Make sure the red
    cap is on tightly.
  6. The swabs should stay attached to the red cap at all
    times.
  7. Label the plastic transport tube with the patient name, patient
    identification number, date & time of collection and the
    initials of the nurse who collected the specimen.
  8. Label the specimen with the collection site.
  9. Swab specimens can be stored at room temperature for up to 24
    hours.
  10. The swab specimen is stable up to 5 days when stored
    refrigerated. (umbilical cord samples are not acceptable.)

Interfering Substances:

  1. Inhibition of MRSA/SA SSTI Assay has been observed with the
    following substances: StaphA +Septic (5% w/v), Hydrocortisone (5%
    w/v) and antibacterial hand sanitizer (5% w/v)
  2. Samples containing Mercurochrome may not be used due to its
    fluorescent nature.