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 Toxoplama gondii nucleic acid. It is used in the diagnosis of active toxoplasma infection in immunocompromised patients where serology is unreliable (e.g. CSF in suspected toxoplasma encephalitis). It can also be used pre or post natally in the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasma infection. Testing should be discussed with the laboratory.
Specimen container paediatric:
CSF, EDTA whole blood, vitreous and aqueous fluid.
Specimen container adult:
CSF, EDTA whole blood, amniotic fluid, vitreous and aqueous fluid.
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5ml CSF
1ml EDTA
0.2ml vitreous and aqueous fluid
Minimum volume adult:
0.5ml CSF
1ml EDTA
1ml amniotic fluid
0.2ml vitreous and aqueous fluid
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:
N/A
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:
None available
Other info:
Referred to Micropathology