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:
This is a PCR assay used to detect adenovirus DNA. Human adenoviruses cause a variety of diseases in immunocompetent individuals including respiratory tract infection, conjunctivitis, and diarrhoea. Adenovirus PCR is included in the Respiratory virus PCR panel and Gastrointestinal virus PCR panel. Adenovirus infection can be more severe in the immunocompromised patient and in addition can cause haemorrhagic cystitis or disseminated disease. Hemopoietic stem cell transplant recipients are at greatest risk (particularly children) and are monitored for infection following local protocols. Samples should be sent from the presumed site of infection. For suspected systemic diseases, and for monitoring, blood should be sent. In blood adenovirus PCR is carried out as part of a multiplex test with CMV PCR and EBV PCR.
Specimen container paediatric:
Blood – EDTA, Stool or Urine in Plain Universal, eye swab in viral transport media. Other sample types can be tested after discussion with Virologists.
Specimen container adult:
Blood – EDTA, Stool or Urine in Plain Universal, eye swab in viral transport media. Other sample types can be tested after discussion with Virologists.
Minimum volume paediatric:
- 1ml EDTA blood
- 1 Swab from site
- Pea-size stool in Universal
- 2ml Urine in Universal
Minimum volume adult:
- 1ml EDTA blood
- 1 Swab from site
- Pea-size stool in Universal
- 2ml Urine in Universal
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hours
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add On Test:
N/A
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Positive results always supported by medical virologist.
Reference Ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced Documents:
N/A
Other Info:
N/A