Serology

Sera analyzed for the detection and quantitation of IgG antibodies against B. abortus, B. suis and B. melitensis by the agglutination of whole cells.

• Brucellosis

Serum sample. Minimum volume required – 1.0 – 2.0 mL

Collect blood in serum separator tubes.

Store specimens refrigerated or frozen until shipped for testing.  Ship frozen on dry ice or on wet ice. 

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

For additional guidance on the transport of infectious substances in other languages, please click on the link below.

http://www.who.int/ihr/capacity-strengthening/infectious-substances/en/

Appropriate clinical symptoms and suspected exposure to Brucella spp.  

Please list all clinical symptoms appropriate to the suspected area of infection detailed by submission of a completed Bioforensics Assay Development and Diagnostics requisition form and clearly specify organism testing request on the requisition form. Append all relevant clinical background information and testing performed.

Specimens may be subject to rejection if they are not the appropriate sample type, have insufficient volume or are not accompanied by relevant patient information.

Brucella microagglutination test (BMAT) used for the detection and quantification of total antibodies and IgG antibodies against B. abortus, B. suis and B. melitensis in microtiter wells by the agglutination of whole cells.

If a single serum sample produces a titer ≥1:160 that declines at least 4 fold with reduction by 2-Mercaptoethanol (2-ME), this is reported as presumptive evidence of acute brucellosis. If paired acute and convalescent phase serum specimens demonstrate a 4-fold increase in titer, this is considered presumptive evidence of acute brucellosis.

This assay is only for the smooth Brucella variants, it does not measure antibodies to B. canis or other rough variants.

30 calendar days.  Please note that during times when large numbers of samples are received or if tests must be repeated, the turnaround time may be longer.

1. Brown S.L., Klein G.C., McKinney F.T., Jones W.L. 1981. Safranin O-stained antigen microagglutination test for detection of Brucella antibodies. J. Clin. Microbiol. 13:398-400.
2. Gaultney J.B., Wende R.D., Williams R.P. 1971. Microagglutination procedures for febrile agglutination tests. Appl. Microbiol. 22:635-640.

Fact Sheet - Brucellosis

Brucella spp. (B. abortus, B. canis, B. melitensis, B. suis) - Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Case Definitions for Communicable Diseases under National Surveillance - 2009 - Brucellosis