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:
Detection of HEV IgG antibodies indicates past hepatitis E virus infection. Certain genotypes of HEV are travel-associated infections, however in recent years genotypes endemic to the UK have been identified. Endemic hepatitis E virus infection is belived to be acquired from undercooked pork and is more common in the UK than hepatitis A virus infection.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST
Minimum volume paediatric:
1 ml
Minimum volume adult:
5 ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2 to 8 deg C
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hours
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
Possible up to 5 days
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS)
Reference ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2 to 8 deg C