Test Code TICKID Tick Identification

Additional Codes

Epic: LAB2214

Test Method

Microscopic and macroscopic examination

Performance

1 - 3 business days

Specimen Requirement

Specimen Type:			Ectoparasite (ticks, mites, lice, fleas, myiasis-causing flies, bed bugs, etc).
Collection Instructions:			Whole parasite: store in clean container with 70% ethanol. If scabies is suspected: scrape the skin from the leading edge of the lesion with a scalpel containing a drop of mineral oil. The mineral oil enhances the adherence of the mites to the blade. Add an additional drop of mineral oil to a clean slide and place scraping on the slide, coverslip, and send in slide transport. Scotch tape is not recommended as it obscures the microscopic exam. If scotch tape must be used, tape at the end of the slide and do not obstruct the middle area where the scrapings are present.
Temperature and Stability:			Room temperature (35°C)
Unacceptable Conditions:			Specimens in preservative other than ethanol. Scabies scrapings not sent on slides in slide transport container.
Expected Results:			Identification of arthopod, Submitted specimen is not an arthropod.

Shipping Instructions
Wrap specimen container in absorbent material and place inside a biohazard bag. Transport specimen at room temperature.

Useful For

Microscopic and macroscopic examination to identify parasite (arthropod, insect, tick).

CPT Information

87168