Order Code LAB7520 Legionella Culture, Varies
Additional Codes
Mayo Test ID |
---|
LEGI |
Reporting Name
Legionella CultureUseful For
Diagnosis of Legionnaires disease
Specimen Type
VariesAdditional 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 Minimum Volume
See Specimen Required
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Varies | Refrigerated | 48 hours |
Reject Due To
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.Reference Values
No growth of Legionella species after 7 days of incubation
Performing Laboratory

Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Method Name
Conventional Culture Technique
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)
Method Description
Specimens are cultured on buffered charcoal-yeast extract-based media. Colonies may appear within a few days; however, cultures are incubated for 7 days before issuing a negative report. Positive specimens will be identified via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry and/or 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing.(Edelstein PH. Improved semi-selective medium for isolation of Legionella pneumophila from contaminated clinical and environmental specimens. J Clin Microbiol. 1981;14:298-303; CLSI. Interpretive Criteria for Identification of Bacteria and Fungi by Targeted DNA Sequencing. 2nd ed. CLSI Guideline MM18. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute; 2018)
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 |
Testing Algorithm
When this test is ordered, the reflex tests may be performed at an additional charge.
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.