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 Treponema pallidum DNA (syphilis). First line testing for syphilis is serology (see treponemal antibody test). In cases of suspected early syphilis with genital lesions, a lesion swab for PCR may be sent in addition to serology to exclude very early infection. PCR of a lesion swab may be positive before there is an antibody response.
Specimen container paediatric:
Lesion swab in viral transport medium, CSF.
Specimen container adult:
Lesion swab in viral transport medium, CSF.
Minimum volume paediatric:
- 1 Swab from site
- 0.5ml CSF
Minimum volume adult:
- 1 Swab from site
- 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 1 week
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 2-8 deg C
Referenced Documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI S 6), Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI V 44),
Other Info:
Sample referred to Micropathology