C Difficile Toxin by PCR Mnemonic CD TOXIN PCR Synonym Clostridium Difficile Toxin by PCR Guidelines This FDA approved assay detects the toxin B gene sequence of Clostridium difficile. Testing for C. difficile should be limited to patients with appropriate signs and symptoms of C. difficile-associated disease, as some people may be asymptomatically colonized with toxigenic C. difficile. This test is only for patients of at least 2 years of age. Please see Laboratory Testing Algorithm for Infectious Causes of Diarrhea. Specimen Collection Requirements Collect Fresh unformed stool in a leak-proof container or unformed stool in Enteric Transport Media View Stool Collection Guide Patient Instructions for Special Stool Testing - English Only Bristol Type 6 or Bristol Type 7 are acceptable for this test. Please click here to see Bristol Stool Chart. Preferred Volume 5.0 mL Minimum Volume 2.0 mL Transport Refrigerated Rejection Criteria Formed stools, stool preserved in PVA, SAF or formalin, frozen, specimens past stability, rectal swabs Stability Ambient: 1 hour; Refrigerated: 3 days Testing Information Note Tests sent on formed stools, repeat testing within 14 days from last positive, or repeat testing within 7 days from last negative result of the original test will be rejected. Testing on asymptomatic patients, patients given a laxative, or for proof-of-cure is discouraged. Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis by contacting the Microbiology laboratory at 503-413-4084. Performed 7 days/week Reported Within 24 hours of receipt Method PCR Reference Values Reference Values Negative CPT Codes 87493 Last Updated: Wednesday, December 16, 2020 12:53:29 AM Client Services: 503-413-1234