Molecular Detection of Francisella tularensis in Non-human Specimens
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Detection of Francisella tularensis by real-time PCR.
- Tularemia
Whole blood – minimum 0.5 mL. Biopsy or dissected tissue (lung, liver, liver or kidneys), approximately 0.5 cm x 0.5 cm, originating from non-human sources.
Collect blood in EDTA tube. When possible, aseptically collect each tissue type. Submit separately in sterile 2 mL O-ring microcentrifuge tubes (Sarstedt vials).
Store whole blood refrigerated for up to 5 days until shipped with freezer packs for testing. Store tissue samples frozen until shipped on dry ice for testing.
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 F. tularensis. An animal with a mild infection may be asymptomatic or exhibit lack of appetite, lethargy and a low-grade fever. Signs of a more serious infection include dehydration, high fever, swollen lymph nodes, ulcers in or around the mouth, and jaundice.
Completed ‘Requisition for Molecular Testing for Selected Zoonotic Agents’.
Specimens may be subject to rejection if they are not the appropriate sample type, have insufficient volume, or are not accompanied by relevant collection information.
Real-time PCR is performed using in-house molecular assays for 3 targets specific to F. tularensis.One of these targets differentiates between Type A and Type B Francisella tularensis.
Confirmatory tests of a sample positive for F. tularensis by real-time PCR result include conventional PCR, nucleic acid sequencing and bacterial isolation.
21 calendar days.
- Versage, J.L., Severin, D.D.M., Chu, M.C., Peterson, J.M., 2003. Development of a Multitarget Real-Time TaqMan PCR Assay for Enhanced Detection of Francisella tularensis in Complex Specimens. J. Clin. Micro., 5492–5499.