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Rickettsia Species DNA, Real-Time PCR
Test Code70191
CPT Codes
87798
Preferred Specimen
0.7 mL whole blood collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
1 tick collected in 70% alcohol
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (cold packs)
Specimen Stability
Whole blood
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Tick
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Tick
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days
Methodology
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
FDA Status
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.
Setup Schedule
Set up: Mon-Sat; Report available: 1-2 days
Clinical Significance
This assay allows for the detection of Rickettsia species DNA in whole blood from symptomatic patients, facilitating the diagnosis during the acute phase of the disease especially in severe cases. It can be used to aid in the diagnosis of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, epidemic and murine typhus and other tick bite fevers. This testing methodology may in some cases provide earlier diagnostic information when compared to serological methods. The collection of specimens should be done before implementation of antibiotic therapy; this test does not detect past or resolved infections. A not detected result does not rule out infection, especially if the sample is collected after the acute phase or after the use of antimicrobials. The results of this test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical presentation and history.
