Geisinger Proven Diagnostics Test Catalog

TZANCK SMEAR
Test code:
Specimen type:	Scraping from base of vesicle
Tube type / collection container:	Glass Slides
Specimen collection notes:	See Cytology Collection Appendix.
What to submit:	Labeled glass slides.
Patient preparation:	None.

Specimen Processing Instructions:	Obtain scraping from base of lesion, removing top layer of vesicle if necessary. Quickly smear material on glass slide. Allow slide to air dry.
Transport temperature:	Room temperature.
Rejection criteria:	Unlabeled specimen.

Reference range:	Not applicable.
Alert limits:	Not applicable.
Additional information:	None.
CPT code(s):	88161
	Note: The billing party has sole responsibility for CPT coding. Any questions regarding coding should be directed to the payer being billed. The CPT codes provided by GML are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only.
Test includes:	Cytologic evaluation.
Synonyms:	HERPES, TZANCK PREP
Clinical Significance:	Detection of inflammatory or infectious processes of the skin, especially herpetic infection.
Doctoral Director Review:	Steven Meschter M.D. 01/16/2013