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. The primary sample type is a nose and throat swab and if unable to obtain then respiratory secretions (NPA, BAL, Tracheal aspirate) are acceptable. NPA is probably the best sample for young children but a nasopharyngeal or nose and throat swab is an acceptable alternative. Certain samples positive for influenza viruses may be referred to the Virus Reference Laboratory at Colindale for typing and/or confirmation. In immunocompromised patients, BAL will additionally be tested for EBV, CMV and Pnemocystitis jirovecii if requested.
Tube
Nose and throat combined swab in Red cap Universal Transport Medium (UTM) or alternatively the Green cap Virus Specimen Collection UTM.
NB: Please AVOID using Copan eSwab (which has a pink cap) for this test.
NPA, BAL, and Tracheal aspirate – send secretions in white universal.
ID
3674.
Additional Information
Multiplex PCR testing for viral targets Influenza viruses (A and B), RSV, SARS-CoV-2, Adenovirus, Metapneumovirus, Rhino virus, Parainfluenza viruses 1-4 and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF.
Collection Con
Optimal time of specimen collection is the acute phase of illness.
Minimum volume 1 ml fluid.
IP Routine TAT
1 to 2 days.
GP Routine TAT
1 to 2 days.