Test Code CXLEG Legionella Culture, Varies
Reporting Name
Legionella CulturePerforming Laboratory

Useful For
Diagnosis of Legionnaires disease
Additional Testing Requirements
Because examination by rapid polymerase-chain reaction (PCR) increases sensitivity and provides faster results, it is strongly recommended to also order LEGRP / Legionella species, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies.
Necessary Information
Specimen source is required.
Specimen Required
Specimen Type: Lower respiratory
Sources: Bronchoalveolar lavage, bronchial aspirate/brushing/lavage/washing, tracheal/endotracheal secretions/aspirate, sputum
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: Entire collection
Specimen type: Fresh tissue or biopsy
Sources: Lung, pleura, heart valve, pericardium
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 5 mm(3)
Collection Instructions: Aseptically collect a 1 to 2 cm(3) piece of tissue whenever possible
Specimen type: Fluid
Sources: Pericardial, pleural, chest, chest tube drainage, thoracentesis, empyema
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: 2 mL
Specimen Type
VariesSpecimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Varies | Refrigerated | 48 hours |
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Reference Values
No growth of Legionella species after 7 days of incubation
Testing Algorithm
When this test is ordered, the reflex tests may be performed at an additional charge.
Reflex Tests
Test ID | Reporting Name | Available Separately | Always Performed |
---|---|---|---|
RMALD | Ident by MALDI-TOF mass spec | No, (Bill Only) | No |
ISAE | Aerobe Ident by Sequencing | No, (Bill Only) | No |
TISSR | Tissue Processing | No, (Bill Only) | No |
Method Name
Conventional Culture Technique
Test Classification
This test has been cleared, approved, or is exempt by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
87081-Legionella culture
87077-Ident by MALDI-TOF mass spec (if appropriate)
87153-Aerobe ident by sequencing (if appropriate)
87176-Tissue processing (if appropriate)
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
LEGI | Legionella Culture | 593-4 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
LEGI | Legionella Culture | In Process |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.
Report Available
7 to 10 daysSpecimen Minimum Volume
See Specimen Required