Viral Respiratory Screen: Samples for diagnosis of viral respiratory disease

Detection of respiratory pathogens by PCR in respiratory secretions is diagnostic for the presence of agents which may or may not be the cause of respiratory disease.
Respiratory secretions (NPA,BAL, Tracheal aspirate), nose and throat swabs are acceptable samples. Sputum will be tested on adults although swabs are preferred where upper respiratory tract symptoms predominate. . Swabs and transport media are available from Molecular lab, ext 28750 or by faxed form available on the web site. NPA is probably the best sample for young children but a nasopharyngeal swab is acceptable alternative or nose and throat swabs. Samples must be in the laboratory before 09:30. Certain samples positive for influenza viruses may be referred to the Virus Reference Laboratory at Colindale for typing and/or confirmation.
In immunocompromised patients BALS will additionally be tested for EBV, CMV and Pnemocystitis jirovecii if requested.