Nocardia culture, stain
Nocardia culture, stain-12425
- Culture
- Acid-fast stain
- Identification, susceptibilities and serogrouping will be performed on all microbiology isolates considered by the laboratory to be significant
Nocardia species are bacteria found in soil and water, and their isolation in culture may represent colonization of the skin or upper respiratory tract, rather than infection. Infections result from trauma-related inoculation or inhalation. In the immunocompetent, Nocardia, predominantly N. brasiliensis, causes chronic subcutaneous infection (mycetoma), lymphocutaneous infections, skin abscesses, or cellulitis. In immunocompromised patients, Nocardia can cause invasive pulmonary infections and disseminated infections, including brain and skin lesions. More than 80% of Nocardia infections are caused by N. asteroides
Multiple specimens should be collected for recovery of Nocardia in culture (3 early morning specimens collected on separate days). In mycetomas, sinus tract drainage and granules (microcolonies) are recommended for direct exam and culture.
Screw cap plastic container (sterile)
Ambient - 24 hours
- Improper label (unlabeled or mislabeled)
- Time delay between time of collection and receipt of specimen
- Improper transport container
- Improper transport temperature
- Inappropriate specimen type
- Leaking container
Negative: 4 weeks
Culture
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Additional CPT codes (if appropriate): 87186 - Sensitivities
87077 - ID
This list may not be all inclusive if there is the need to send the ID or sensitivities out to a referral laboratory