Test Details
Mnemonic
CDIFF
Ordering Code
3501670
CPT-4 Code(s)
87081, plus 87493 if reflexed to Toxin, at additional cost
Specimen Information
Collect
Stool (unpreserved)
Specimen Preparation
Freeze stool as soon as possible as toxin is heat labile. Send 5.0 grams or 5.0 mL stool frozen in a screw capped plastic container.
Minimum Volume
2.0 grams or 2.0 mL
Transport Temperature
Frozen (-70° C)
Rejection Criteria
Stool in media or preservative. Specimen other than liquid or semi-formed stool. Specimens received room temperature.
Stability
Room temperature: Unacceptable
Refrigerated: 48 hours
Frozen (-20° C): Not established
Frozen (-70° C): 7 days
Refrigerated: 48 hours
Frozen (-20° C): Not established
Frozen (-70° C): 7 days
Methodology
Conventional culture
Reference Range
Not isolated
Performing Laboratory
Quest SJC
New York DOH Approval Status
Yes