Brucella antibodies

Test information: Recommended serology test to detect recent infection from Brucella in the context of a clinically compatible illness and exposure history.

Availability: Referred to Brucella Special Diagnostic Unit Liverpool Clinical Laboratories: Monday - Friday during routine hours: 08:45 - 17:15.

Turnaround Time: 14 Days upon receipt at the Brucella Special Diagnostic Unit Liverpool Clinical Laboratories

Specimen Type(s)

• Clotted blood;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Gold Top SST BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Plain Top Sarstedt;

Analytes

• Brucella species antibodies;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

2.5-5mL

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

• Minimum-clotting time 30 minutes.
• Specimens should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible.
• Outside of normal hours samples should be refrigerated (2 °C to 8 °C).
• Please indicate travel history, clinical features and identify any risk factors (i.e. animal exposure or consumption of unpasteurised dairy products.

Maximum add on time

N/A

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Brucella Capt: Screening titre <1/160
Brucella IgM: Screening titre <1/20
Brucella IgG: Screening titre <1/20

UKAS number

9755

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

Please note if there is a strong clinical suspicion of Brucellosis and tests are negative it is good practice to repeat testing after a 6-week period.

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.