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:
Infectious Mononucleosis (also known as Glandular Fever) is a widespread viral disease caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), it is primarily a disease of adolescents and young adults as >90% adults have acquired immunity by the age of 40. When exposed as children most people only develop flu-like symptoms. In the adolescents and young adults the disease is characterised by fever, sore throat, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes. The screening test uses a card system in which a drop of blood.
Specimen container paediatric:
Pink – EDTA
Specimen container adult:
Purple – EDTA
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5mL
Minimum volume adult:
1.0mL
Special requirements:
Ensure adequate mixing.
Sample stability:
24 hrs
Transport requirements:
Samples should be transported to lab without delay
Freq analysis:
On request
Add on test:
[email protected] (external)
Quality assurance:
UK NEQAS Haematology
Reference ranges:
See specific tests and overall morphology report in conjunction with result of slide test.
Factors affecting result:
Infectious Mononucleosis Slide Test (Clearview IM II)Limitations of Test ProcedureThe Clearview IM II detects IM heterophile antibodies associated with EBV infection. These are present in 80 to 90% of acute IM infections and can be detected in 60 to 70% of patients during the first week of clinical illness.Negative results can be obtained when insufficient levels of antibody are present. Where clinically indicated, or other laboratory results suggest, a repeat test should be performed on negative samples. A NEGATIVE result does not at any time preclude the possibility of IM infection.If the test is negative and clinical symptoms persist, additional testing using other clinical methods is recommended.The Clearview IM II is a qualitative in vitro diagnostic test. Neither the quantitative value nor the rate of increase in the IM antibody concentration can be determined by this qualitative test.
Heterophile antibodies can also be demonstrated in rheumatoid arthritis, viral hepatitis, leukaemia and Burkett’s lymphoma.
Other info:
Screening procedure for infectious mononucleosis involving:Full Blood CountBlood film reviewInfectious Mononucleosis slide test