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:
Legionella causes respiratory infections including Legionnaire’s disease or Pontiac fever. Culture of the bacterium from respiratory samples on special plates can assist in the diagnosis of these conditions.
Specimen container paediatric:
Sputum, BAL or other respiratory sample in sterile Universal.
Specimen container adult:
Sputum, BAL or other respiratory sample in sterile Universal.
Minimum volume paediatric:
N/A
Minimum volume adult:
N/A
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:
Possible up to 3 days.
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference ranges:
N/A
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI ID 18)
Other info:
N/A