Test Order - Bacterial Bioterrorism Agent Identification or Confirmation

 ​​Pre-Approval Required

Yes

Supplemental Information or Form

1.    Pure, viable subculture

2.    For Brucella sp. confirmed to genus, a boiled undiluted cellular extract (see description below) of a pure culture

3.    Completed submittal form with 2 patient identifiers (e.g. name and date of birth), collection date and source, a brief but complete patient history, cultural history and submitting laboratory’s findings

Performed on Specimens From

None

Acceptable Sample/Specimen Type for Testing

1.    Bacterial isolate

2.    For Brucella sp.confirmed to genus, a boiled undiluted cellular lysate of a pure culture prepared using LRN extraction procedures with a final volume of 100 µl is also acceptable

Minimum Volume Required

None

Storage & Preservation of Sample/Specimen Prior to Shipping

None

Transport

1.    Bacterial isolate: Tubed agar medium with a secure screw cap, labeled with patient’s name

2.    Boiled undiluted cellular lysate:  Minimum volume of 100 µl in a 1.5 to 2 ml taped screw cap conical centrifuge tube, labeled with the patient’s name

Sample/Specimen Labeling

None

Shipping Instructions which Include Specimen Handling Requirements

For Isolates:

1.    Grow isolate under appropriate conditions prior to shipping.

2.    Ship at ambient temperature using appropriate DOT/IATA approved shipping procedures.

For Cellular Extracts:

1.    Ship frozen or on a cold pack using appropriate DOT/IATA approved shipping procedures.

Test Methodology

As needed - Conventional Methods such as Biochemical testing, DFA, and phage lysis, and PCR

Turnaround Time

None

Interferences & Limitations

Mixed or nonviable culture

Additional Information

Please contact the MDL High Risk Pathogens Section for special consideration if any of the above criteria cannot be met.

MDL Points of Contact

High Risk Pathogens Section (Select Agents) (510) 412-3903
F​ax number (510) 412-3706​

Call during Non-Business Hours: