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C Difficile PCR

Important Note

*This test is orderable in Cerner as Clostridioides difficile PCR

NOTE: It is important to note the specimen should be kept at 4 °C upon collection

Specimen Requirements

  • Specimen Type: Only liquid/unformed stools are acceptable
  • Container/Tube (Preferred): Sterile cup/container with a secure lid
  • Acceptable: Liquid/unformed stools
  • Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
  • Specimen Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
  • Specimen Stability: 48 hours
  • Collection Instructions: Pass liquid or soft (assumes shape of container) stool directly into a clean, dry container.

Specimen Stability

Refrigerated up to 48 hours

Reference Values

Negative

Results called on all inpatients/institutional residents. All outpatients results called during business hours only

Testing Algorithm

Positive C. diff PCR specimens will reflex to the C. diff Ag/Toxin test.  

           Detected = Meets diagnostic criteria for C diff infection.

           Not Detected = Potentially colonized. If strong suspicion for infection persists, consider ID                                             Consult.

Day(s) Performed

Daily

Analytical Time:

1 day

Performing Laboratory

Rutland Regional Medical Center Laboratory

Methodology

DiaSorin Molecular Simplexa™ 

Test Classification and CPT Coding

CPT: 87493

LOINC: 34713-8

Special Instructions

  1. Patient should be passing ≥5 stools per 24 hours with liquid or soft consistency.
  2. Submit on 1 specimen per 7 days.
  3. If a patient is positive for C. difficile, no additional specimens will be accepted for 10 days.
  4. This assay is not approved to test for cure since nucleic acids may persist after effective treatment.
  5. Up to 50% of neonates may be colonized with toxigenic C. difficile. Testing of children less than 1 year of age is not recommended.