Clostridioides difficile Toxin by PCR — Specimen Transport and Acceptance
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This technical bulletin governs collection, temperature transport, and acceptance criteria for stool specimens submitted for Clostridioides difficile PCR/toxin testing to the McLaren Microbiology Laboratory; it affects clinicians and specimen collection staff sending stools to MML Corporate.
No material clinical or coverage changes in this revision.
Specimen Acceptance and Stability Criteria
Specimen handling and acceptance criteria
Specimen handling, stability, and rejection criteria for C. difficile PCR/toxin testing at MML Corporate:
Specimens that will be rejected
- Stools that do not conform to the shape of the container will not be tested.
- Specimens placed in any type of transport medium or preservative will not be tested.
- Stool specimens from a patient who had a C. difficile test within 7 days will be rejected and will not be tested.
Coding and Specimen Stability Summary
| No codes listed |
Specimen Transport and Handling Instructions
Refrigerated transport and timely refrigeration required
Transport all stool specimens for C. difficile PCR/toxin testing to MML Corporate refrigerated (2–8 °C). Refrigerate specimens within 2 hours of collection to preserve toxin stability; specimens held at room temperature are only stable for PCR up to 24 hours but toxin is not stable at room temperature. If specimens arrive at a local lab at room temperature, refrigerate them (2–8 °C) upon receipt.
- Collect liquid (unformed) stool in a clean container without preservatives.
- Transport and store at 2–8 °C for up to 5 days for PCR testing.
- Do not leave specimens at room temperature longer than 24 hours before refrigeration if PCR testing is intended; refrigerate within 2 hours to preserve toxin.
- If received at a local lab at room temperature, refrigerate (2–8 °C) upon receipt.
Terms and Appropriate Specimen
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