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HelpTest Code 4150 Tzanck Smear
Additional Codes
| Ordering Mnemonic |
|---|
| TZANCK |
Methodology
Special Stain
Useful for rapid cytological evaluation of smears for herpes
simplex and other viral bullous diseases based on the presence of
multinucleated giant cells in cutaneous lesions.
Performing Laboratory
Holland Hospital Laboratory Services
Specimen Requirements
Container/Tube: Clean glass slide
Specimen Volume: See “Container/Tube”
Forms: “Histopathology/Cytology” request form. See Special Instructions for a copy of the form.
Collection Instructions: 1. With a #2 pencil, label frosted end of a clean glass slide with name of patient, date of birth and source.
2. Open vesicle or pustule with scalpel blade. Scrape base of lesion gently with scalpel blade. Do not use a cotton-tipped swab, as material will be absorbed by the cotton and will not stick to slide.
3. Spread material evenly over a glass slide. Allow slide to air dry. Do not spray.
4. Place slide in a slide holder. Do not close holder until slide has dried completely. Specimen may adhere to cardboard slide holder or paper filaments may adhere to slide making evaluation difficult.
5. Label cardboard slide holder with patient name, date of birth and date of collection.
6. Indicate source of specimen.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Friday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
87207
Reference Values
Not present (results reported as present or not present)
A positive Tzanck smear can be taken as substantial proof of the
presence of a herpetic infection. A negative Tzanck smear does not
rule out the presence of herpes. Positive smears can also be seen
in other viral bullous skin infections.