Pneumocystis pneumonia PCR

Test information: Pneumocystis pneumonia is a lung infection caused by a fungus. It's rare in healthy people, and usually affects those with a weak immune system. PCP testing should be considered in patients with HIV infection whose CD4 + cells fall below 200/uL and who are not receiving PCP prophylaxis. Persons with primary immune deficiencies. Persons receiving long-term immunosuppressive regimens for connective-tissue disorders, vasculitides, or solid-organ transplantation. Persons with hematologic and nonhematologic malignancies, including solid tumors and lymphomas. Persons with severe malnutrition. Also associated with serum beta glucan testing for invasive fungal infection. Assay target - Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia DNA.

Specimen Type(s)

• Sputum;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

• Sputum;
• Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL);
• Nasopharyngeal aspirate (NPA);

Specimen Container - Adult

• Plain Universal;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Sterile CE-marked Universal Container;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

N/A

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

Specimens should be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible.
Outside of normal hours samples should be refrigerated (2 °C to 8 °C).

Maximum add on time

N/A

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Negative/Positive

UKAS number

9622

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

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