Detection of rabies virus antigen by fluorescent antibody test

Description of the test 

Specifications: 

The test can be performed in the frame of a postmortemdiagnosis in case of a clinically suspect patient using nervous tissue (brain). 

Results:

• positive/negative/undertermined
• in case of a positive/undetermined result, PCR is performed to confirm diagnosis

Retention period of samples and period in which retests can be requested (if enough sample is available): maximum 1 year

Purpose of the test

Diagnosis of rabies — Detection of rabies virus antigen by direct immunofluorescence (FAT: Fluorescent Antibody Test)

Criteria for the performance of this test in the context of the reference activities

Clinical case of encephalitis/myelitis and: 

• after contact with an infected animal
• after contact (bite, lick, scratch, …) with an animal in a rabies endemic region
• with typical symptoms of rabies like agitation, hypersalvation, hydrofobia, paralysis, …

Sampling instructions

Type: nervous tissue

Storage and delivery:

• After sampling, store cool (4 °C)
• Fast delivery of the samples, by preference cooled
• Hermetically sealed triple packaging of the samples

Stability of the sample: garanteed for one week if stored ≤ 37°C

Minimally required amount: 1 cm³ 

Unacceptable requests

No clinical indication for a rabies virus infection

Reporting of the results

In case of a positive result, the authorities and medical doctor of the patient will be contacted immediately.

Sending of analysis report: within the maximum term, by post to the requesting lab or medical doctor. Results can be automatically be delivered via fax, email or the eHealth Box as well. Please indicate this request on the application form.

If a non-conform sample has been received in the laboratory (e.g. broken tube, insufficient volume, …) the requestor will be contacted.