Browsing Tag

Algorithm

Advanced Technology Laboratory, Cytology, General Information

Reflex HPV Testing Update

Effective April 2, 2025, the Reflex HPV algorithm will more closely align with ASCCP recommendations. HPV testing will no longer be performed for a normal Pap result in patients aged 30 years and older when a provider orders HPV Reflex.

Specimens will qualify for HPV Reflex with a cytologic diagnosis of:

  • ASCUS (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance) for patients aged 21 and older.
  • LSIL (Low Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion) for patients aged 25 and older.

HPV testing will continue to be performed for all Paps, regardless of results, for patients aged 30 years or older when a provider orders Co-Testing.

If a provider wishes to request HPV testing on a normal pap for patients under 30, they must either place an electronic order at the time of the initial pap order or request an add-on test for:

  • HPV High Risk Screen with HPV Genotype Reflex – Cervical Source (LAB1231770)
  • HPV High Risk Screen with HPV Genotype Reflex – Vaginal Source (LAB1230722)

Updated Pap and HPV Testing Algorithm

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Main lab, Microbiology, Test Utilization

Influenza Testing Reminder

The mitigation strategies enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce the spread of this virus have also impacted the transmission of other respiratory viruses. Influenza is typically prevalent during the winter months (December through March), however, influenza cases were essentially non-existent during the 2020-2021 season and influenza is not currently circulating in our community.

In the absence of circulating influenza activity, it is recommended to use the most sensitive diagnostic test in order to obtain accurate and actionable results. Influenza antigen testing (e.g. Sofia instrument) is not appropriate at this time. More detailed information can be found as published by the CDC: Algorithm to assist in the interpretation of influenza testing results and clinical decision-making during periods when influenza viruses are NOT circulating in the community

Low Influenza
prevalence
High influenza
prevalence
Recommended order Influenza PCR (LAB3255) Influenza Rapid Antigen (LAB2111530)
or
Influenza PCR (LAB3255)

TEST INFORMATION

Test name Epic code Interface EMR Code CPT Code
 Influenza PCR  LAB3255 11594 87502
 Influenza Rapid Antigen  LAB2111530 11208 87804 x4