Purpose of the test
Sequencing of PCR products: species identification in case of PCR flagellin or OspA positive or undetermined result.
Criteria for performing the analyses within the framework of reference activity
PCR can be requested for the direct examination of Borrelia in CSV, in joint fluid or on skin or joint biopsy (optimal volume is 0.5 ml to 1 ml if fluid). However, the preferred technique for neuroborreliosis remains serology on CSV and serum.
Instructions for samples
Sample collection :
- CSV: Preferred volume for PCR is 1 ml, (at least 0.5 ml is required).
- Other samples: For synovial fluids, the same rules apply as for CSV.
Other than CSV or joint fluids, please contact the laboratory.
Storage conditions: samples can be kept refrigerated (2-8°C) for several days, but blood must be processed within 24 hours.
Instructions for transport
No special transport medium is required for PCR. Biopsies can be sent dry or salted, NOT in fixative. Transport at ambient temperature or possibly refrigerated in case of hot summer days.
Unacceptable requests
- Insufficient samples
- Lipaemic, icteric or haemolytic samples
- If no serum, CSV or synovial fluid, contact the NRC before shipment
- Excessive transport time (> a week) or under excessive heat (e.g. hot summer days) (see storage conditions above).
- Application form not completed in full. This is absolutely necessary. Extreme effort should be made to obtain minimum clinical data (registration is one of the objectives of the NRC).
Turn around time (and frequency of analysis)
28 days for sequence analysis, analysis is performed once a week.
Reporting of test results
Results will be sent via email and/or fax according to the requesting laboratory or physician’s wishes.