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 test can be useful in the diagnosis of Echinococcus infection (tapeworm), which is difficult to detect by other laboratory methods. Sensitivity depends upon cyst type (overall 92% show a positive ELISA test, liver 96%, pulmonary 76%, skeletal 60%, brain hydatid rarely shows positive serology). Serological cross-reactions, giving rise to false positives, can occur with other parasitic infections, particularly larval cestodes, and filarial worms and with some neoplasms.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood.
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
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 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
N/A
Quality assurance:
Sample referred to Reference Laboratory.
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable
Reference ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2 to 8 deg C
Referenced Documents:
N/A
Other info:
Referred to Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine