This diagnostic process employs Present Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes to determine a fast technique for detecting influenza virus antigens in a affected person pattern, usually obtained from a nasal swab or wash. It’s designed to offer outcomes inside a brief timeframe, usually lower than half-hour, permitting for immediate medical decision-making. For instance, if a affected person presents with flu-like signs, this assay can rapidly decide if influenza is the trigger.
The worth of speedy analysis lies in enabling well timed administration of antiviral drugs, notably inside the first 48 hours of symptom onset, doubtlessly lowering the severity and length of the sickness. Moreover, affirmation of influenza might help differentiate it from different respiratory infections, guiding applicable therapy methods and limiting the pointless use of antibiotics. Traditionally, influenza analysis relied on slower strategies like viral tradition, making speedy testing a big development in affected person care and public well being administration throughout seasonal outbreaks.
