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:
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a cause of atypical pneumonia. Occasionally patients have non-respiratory presentations.
Specimen container paediatric:
Viral throat swab, universal container for nasopharyngeal secretions, sputum, BAL or endotracheal secretions.
Specimen container adult:
Viral throat swab, universal container for sputum, BAL or endotracheal secretions.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1 swab or 1 ml
Minimum volume adult:
1 swab or 3 ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible.
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2 to 8oC
Sample Stability:
Stable for up to 24 hours
Quality Assurance:
Sample referred to Reference Laboratory
Reference Ranges:
None available
Factors Affecting Result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2 to 8oC