Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay with direct optical observation; adenovirus
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Infectious Agent Antigen Detection by Immunoassay with Direct Optical Observation; Adenovirus (Common Name: Adenovirus Antigen Detection Test)
Summary:
This procedure uses a specialized test to detect adenovirus antigens in the body. It employs an immunoassay technique combined with direct optical observation to identify the presence of adenovirus, which is a common cause of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
Purpose:
The test is designed to diagnose infections caused by adenovirus. It helps in confirming the presence of the virus, thereby aiding in appropriate treatment decisions and infection control.
Indications:
- Symptoms such as sore throat, fever, cough, and eye redness that suggest a respiratory infection.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain that indicate a possible adenovirus infection.
- Exposure to someone known to be infected with adenovirus.
- Patients with weakened immune systems who are at a higher risk for severe adenovirus infections.
Preparation:
- No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
- Inform the healthcare provider about any medications or supplements being taken.
- A sample collection method, such as a throat swab or stool sample, may be explained beforehand.
Procedure Description:
- Sample Collection: Depending on symptoms, a swab from the throat, nasal passage, or a stool sample is collected.
- Immunoassay: The collected sample is processed using an immunoassay. This testing method uses antibodies that bind specifically to adenovirus antigens.
- Direct Optical Observation: The test result is observed directly using optical equipment to confirm the presence of the antigens.
- Analysis: The healthcare provider interprets the results, typically available within a few hours to a day.
Duration:
The entire procedure, including sample collection and processing, generally takes a few hours. The sample collection process itself lasts only a few minutes.
Setting:
This procedure is typically performed in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or specialized diagnostic laboratories.
Personnel:
- Medical technologists or laboratory technicians for sample processing.
- Healthcare providers such as doctors or nurses to collect the sample and interpret results.
Risks and Complications:
- Minor discomfort during sample collection, such as a gag reflex during a throat swab.
- Rare risk of bleeding or infection at the sample collection site.
Benefits:
- Rapid and accurate diagnosis of adenovirus infection.
- Informs appropriate treatment and infection control measures.
- Helps in preventing the spread of the virus to others.
Recovery:
- No significant recovery time is needed after the sample collection.
- Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
- Follow-up may be required based on test results and overall clinical condition.
Alternatives:
- Viral culture: More time-consuming but highly specific.
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing: Highly sensitive but potentially more expensive and less widely available.
- Symptom management without definitive diagnosis: May result in less targeted treatment.
Patient Experience:
- Patients might experience mild discomfort during the sample collection, such as a gagging sensation or slight irritation.
- The procedure itself should not cause significant pain.
- Most patients will find the experience quick and relatively non-invasive.