Francisella tularensis (Tularemia) by Real-time (TaqMan®) PCR Assay

Data Value
Method Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (q-PCR) Amplification of Francisella tularensis DNA.
CPT Code N/A
Test Scope Rapid presumptive identification by q-PCR of suspect Francisella tularensis from isolates or directly from clinical specimens and/or environmental specimens. Followed by confirmatory culture methods.
Preferred Specimen Gram negative coccobacilli grown in liquid medium/blood culture or isolate on agar plates or slates. Collect other specimens if/as clinically indicated (blood, bone marrow, spleen, liver or abscess) Nasal or nasopharyngeal swabs from suspected inhalational exposure.
Non-clinical or environmental samples are accepted from law enforcement agencies ONLY.
Specimen Container Isolates submitted in screw top slants. Swabs submitted in screw top polypropylene centrifuge tubes. Do Not use calcium alginate or cotton tip swabs.
Specimen Identification Label specimen with patient’s first name, last name, DOB, collection date and specimen source.
Special Instructions Alert NSHL staff (Microbiology or Emergency Response) when sending specimen for testing.
Shipping Requirements
  • Clinical – Room temperature for culture isolates.
  • Environmental – Ship samples 2-8° C.
In either case ship according to current IATA regulations.
Note Post antibiotic specimens may be compromised for the confirmatory culture methods.
Sample Rejection Criteria
  • Swabs with calcium alginate or cotton tips and wooden shafts.
  • Unlabeled or Mislabeled specimens
Turn-around-time Presumptive PCR result within 12-24 hours, M-F;
Culture confirmatory and speciation 7-10 days