Brucella species by Real-time (TaqMan®) PCR Assay

Brucella species by Real-time (TaqMan®) PCR Assay
DataValue
Method Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (q-PCR) Amplification of Brucella species DNA.
CPT Code
Testing Scope Rapid presumptive identification by Q-PCR of suspect Brucella species 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 slants. Collect other specimens if/as clinically indicated (blood, bone marrow, spleen, liver or abscess) Nasal swab specimen from suspected inhalational exposure;
Non-clinical and environmental samples accepted from law enforcement agencies ONLY.
Specimen Container
  • Isolates submitted in screen top splats.
  • Swabs submitted in screw top polypropylene centrifuge tubes. Do Not use calcium alginate or cotton tip swabs.
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
  • 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 specimen
Turn-around-time Presumptive PCR result within 12-24 hours, M-F;
Culture confirmatory and speciation 7-10 days