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 mumps virus RNA. It can be performed on swabs of the parotid duct in cases of suspected mumps or on CSF in suspected mumps meningitis.
Specimen container paediatric:
Swab in viral transport medium, buccal swab, CSF.
Specimen container adult:
Swab in viral transport medium, buccal swab, CSF.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1 Swab each site in viral transport medium 0.5ml CSF
Minimum volume adult:
1 Swab each site in viral transport medium 0.5ml CSF
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 5 days
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:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI V 43)
Other info:
Referred to UKHSA, Colindale