Bacillus anthracis by Real-time (TaqMan®) PCR Assay
| Data | Value |
|---|---|
| Method | Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (q-PCR) Amplification of Bacillus anthracis DNA. |
| CPT Code | |
| Testing Scope | Rapid presumptive identification by Q-PCR of suspect Bacillus anthracis from isolates or directly from clinical specimens and/or environmental specimens. Followed by confirmatory culture methods. |
| Preferred Specimen | Gram positive bacteria grown in liquid medium/blood culture or isolate on agar plates or slants. Collect other specimen(s) if/as clinically indicated (CSF, swab from eschar, pleural fluid) Nasal swab specimen from suspected inhalational exposure. Non-clinical and environmental samples accepted from law enforcement agencies ONLY. |
| Specimen Container |
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| Specimen Identification | Label 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 | Store and ship room temperature Ship according to current IATA regulations. |
| Note | Post antibiotic specimens may be compromised for the confirmatory culture methods. |
| Sample Rejection Criteria |
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| Turn-around-time | Presumptive PCR result within 12-24 hours, M-F; Culture confirmatory 48-72 hours. |