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.
Container / Tube
Nose and throat combined swab in red cap UTM (Universal Transport Medium) tube or alternatively, the green cap Virus Specimen Collection UTM tube.
NB: Please AVOID using Copan eSwab (which has a pink cap) for this test.
NPA, BAL, and Tracheal aspirate – send secretions in white universal.
Collection Conditions
Optimal time of specimen collection is the acute phase of illness.
Minimum volume 1ml fluid.
Availability
N/A.
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF.
Turnaround Time
1 to 2 days.
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.
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.
ID
3674