Test Details
Methodology
Direct fluorescent antibody (DFA)
Result Turnaround Time
2 - 5 days
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Use
Determine the presence of Legionella pneumophila organisms in direct FA smear of specimen, providing rapid diagnosis
Limitations
Test does not include Legionella species other than L pneumophila.
Custom Additional Information
Community-acquired and nosocomial infections caused by multiple serogroups of Legionella are increasingly recognized. Although culture is now possible on buffered charcoal yeast extract agar, the demonstration of organisms in tissue or brushings is the fastest way to make the diagnosis. It also has the advantage of applicability to specimens contaminated with other bacteria. Development of monoclonal antibodies have increased sensitivity and specificity. False-positive reaction has been reported in a case of pleuropulmonary tularemia and in cases of Campylobacter infection.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Lung biopsy, lung exudate, pleural fluid, transtracheal aspirate, sputum, bronchial washing
Volume
1 mL lung exudate or 1 cc lung biopsy
Container
Sterile leakproof container or slides
Collection Instructions
Contamination with normal flora from skin or other body surfaces should be avoided.
Reference Range
No Legionella pneumophila detected
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate. Maintain specimen at 2°C to 8°C, and transport to the laboratory within 24 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Swab specimen; inappropriate specimen transport device; improper labeling; specimen received after prolonged delay (usually more than 72 hours); environmental water samples such as air conditioning/cooling towers
References
LOINC® Map
| Order Code | Order Code Name | Order Loinc | Result Code | Result Code Name | UofM | Result LOINC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 085506 | Legionella pneumophila DFA | 89594-6 | 085506 | Legionella pneumophila DFA | 89594-6 | |
| Order Code | 085506 | |||||
| Order Code Name | Legionella pneumophila DFA | |||||
| Order Loinc | 89594-6 | |||||
| Result Code | 085506 | |||||
| Result Code Name | Legionella pneumophila DFA | |||||
| UofM | ||||||
| Result LOINC | 89594-6 |