Toxoplasma Serology & PCR

Test information: This assay is used to screen for evidence of toxoplasma infection. It is mostly used in the investigation of lymphadenopathy, unexplained febrile illness and possible exposure or infection in pregnancy. Locally reactive samples are referred to the Toxoplasma Reference Laboratory, Public Health Wales Microbiology Swansea for specialist investigation and reporting. Investigation of toxoplasma infection in the immunocompromised (e.g. HIV associated cerebral infection) or ocular infection should be discussed with a Consultant Microbiologist.

Availability: Available locally Monday - Friday during routine hours: 08:45 - 17:15.
Referred to Toxoplasma Reference Laboratory, Public Health Wales Microbiology Swansea: Monday - Friday during routine hours: 08:45 - 17:15.

Turnaround Time: Locally Same Day - 3 Days
7 - 10 Days upon receipt at Toxoplasma Reference Laboratory, Public Health Wales Microbiology Swansea

Specimen Type(s)

• Amniotic Fluid;
• Aqueous fluid;
• Cerebrospinal fluid;
• Clotted blood;
• EDTA Whole Blood;
• Tissue;
• Tissue Biopsies;
• Vitreous Fluid;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Gold Top SST BD;
• Purple Top BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Plain Top Sarstedt;
• Purple Top Microtainer BD;
• Sterile CE-marked Universal Container;

Analytes

• Toxoplasma antibodies;
• Toxoplasma gondii DNA;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

Clotted Blood: Adults: (2.5 - 5mL), neonates (0.5 - 1mL).
EDTA Whole Blood: Adults: (2.5 - 5mL), neonates (0.5 - 1mL)
CSF: 300uL
Vitreous Fluid: 300uL
Amniotic Fluid: >1mL

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

• Minimum-clotting time 30 minutes.
• Do not send grossly haemolysed, lipemic or icteric specimens.
• 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 / Equivocal / Positive

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

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