Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
If a patient has diarrhoea (Bristol Stool Chart types 5-7) that is not clearly attributable to an underlying condition (e.g. inflammatory colitis, overflow) or therapy (e.g. laxatives, enteral feeding) then it is necessary to determine if this is due to C. difficile. The spectrum of disease ranges from a self-limiting mild diarrhoea, to the advanced and severe illness characteristic of pseudomembranous colitis. C. difficle has been associated with outbreaks in hospitals and in extended care facilities for the elderly. It represents an important cause of hospital-acquired infection. All diarrhoeal samples from hospital patients aged >2 years and, as a minimum, all diarrhoeal samples from those aged >65 years in the community where clinically indicated should be tested.
Specimen container paediatric:
Scoop faeces in to universal container using integrated spoon.
Specimen container adult:
Scoop faeces in to universal container using integrated spoon.
Minimum volume paediatric:
4mL or approximately 1/5 of the container (Universal Container)
Minimum volume adult:
4mL or approximately 1/5 of the container (Universal Container)
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
C.difficile toxin is stable at fridge temperatures for up to 3 days, however national guidelines recommend diagnosis within 18 hrs of symptoms. Arrange to transport sample as soon as reasonably practicable.
Transport requirements:
Samples must be transported to microbiology as soon as reasonable practicable.
Add on test:
Possible up to 3 days.
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Positive results always supported by medical microbiologist and Infection Prevention & Control Teams.
Reference ranges:
N/A
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI B 10).
Other Info:
N/A