Yersinia pestis

Brief Description

This real time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) molecular assay is intended for the qualitative detection of Yersinia pestis DNA from clinical specimens exhibiting colony morphology and bio-chemical testing consistent with an agent of bioterrorism. Additional reflex testing at the GPHL may be used to confirm specific agents.

Laboratory Unit

Molecular Biology

Methodology

RT-PCR

Specimen Collection

  • Bronchial wash:
    • Collect in a sterile container.
  • Transtracheal aspirate:
    • Collect in a sterile container.
  • Sputum:
    • Collect in a sterile container.
  • Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab:
    • Place swab in VTM after collection.

NOTE: Samples below may only be submitted when coordinated with law enforcement.

  • Environmental samples: (Swab, powder, liquid, envelope, letter, or package)
    • Collect in sterile container.

Storage/Transport

Consultation with district epidemiologist required prior to submission.

  • Bronchial wash can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) during transit.
  • Transtracheal aspirate can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) during transit.
  • Sputum can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) during transit.
  • Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (2-8°C) during transit.
  • Environmental samples can be maintained at room temperature (15-30°C) during transit.
  • Download this pdf file. FRM-QA 4 Refrigeration Outfit Guide

Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

  • Bronchial wash
  • Transtracheal aspirate
  • Sputum
  • Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab
  • Environmental samples

Test Request

Possible Results

  • Detected
  • Not detected
  • Unsatisfactory

Reference Range

Not detected

Unacceptable Conditions

  • Missing testing requisition
  • Missing minimum of 2 patient identifiers
  • Improper labeling
  • Improper storage/transport of specimen
  • No specimen received (empty collection tube).
  • Wrong specimen type
  • Specimen damages, broken, or leaking upon arrival

Interfering Substances

N/A

Result Reported

1-2 business days

Turnaround times may be affected by the scale of the event.

Fees

No charge

LOINC/Order Codes

33686-7 (Order code: BTC06000)

Additional Information

This test will only be used in response to a biothreat event.  Requestor must contact GPHL at 1-866-PUB-HLTH (1-866-782-4584) prior to submitting specimens for testing.