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 serological assay used to detect IgM antibodies to rubellavirus. It is the diagnostic test for recent rubella virus infection including neonates with suspected congenital rubella infection. As rubella is currently extremely rare, most reactive IgM results are non-specific. For this reason all reactive rubella IgM samples are sent to the rubella reference laboratory for confirmation.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood.
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
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:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced Documents:
N/A
Other Info:
N/A