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 enterovirus RNA. Enteroviruses include coxsackieviruses, echoviruses and polioviruses. These cause a wide range of diseases including meningitis, rash illness such as hand foot and mouth diseases, myocarditis, neonatal sepsis and Bornholm’s disease. Samples should be sent form the site of suspected infection if possible (CSF, lesion swab). Viral RNA can also be detected in stool for several weeks after infection.
Specimen container paediatric:
CSF in sterile plain universal container, Stool in a plain universal container, swab in viral transport medium, tissue in plain plain universal, other sample types can be tested after discussion with Virologists.
Specimen container adult:
CSF in sterile plain universal container, Stool in a plain universal container, swab in viral transport medium, tissue in plain plain universal, EDTA blood, other sample types can be tested after discussion with Virologists.
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5ml CSF
Scoop of faeces into universal container using integrated spoon
1 Swab from site
1ml EDTA blood
Minimum volume adult:
0.5ml CSF
Scoop of faeces into universal container using integrated spoon
1 Swab from site
5ml EDTA blood
Special requirements:
Sample types: CSF in cases of suspected viral meningitis. Lesion swabs for suspected hand, foot and mouth disease or herpangina. In cases of myocarditis or suspected Bornholm’s disease consider faeces sample (discuss with laboratory before sending).
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hours.
Transport requirements:
Standard.
Add on test:
Possible up to 6 days
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference Ranges:
None available.
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced Documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI V43).
Other Info:
Positive samples referred to UKHSA, Colindale for typing.