E. coli O157:H7 – Identification

 

Laboratory Fee Schedule
Procedure #:  MAQ0110A
CPT:  N/A

Synonym(s):  STEC; O157:H7; E. coli
Requisition Form BAX® Real-Time PCR Screen and/or conventional biochemical tests and enrichment to isolate and identify E. coli O157:H7
Test Description Regulatory or IDCU agent
Pre-Approval Needed Regulatory or IDCU agent
Supplemental Information Required N/A
Supplemental Form(s) N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources)
  • Food
  • Environmental
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing
  • Food/milk samples
  • Environmental Swabs
Minimum Volume/Size Required
  • 100 grams (1/4 pound); or
  • 500 grams (1.1 pounds) for beef trim, ground beef
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping
  • Environmental swabs must be collected on appropriate swabs used for environmental testing (e.g., 3M™ Quick Swabs or Spongesicle type swabs or equivalent). 
  • Place food sample in sterile zip-lock or whirlpack bag or other sterile plastic container. 
  • Store on ice.
Transport Medium N/A
Specimen Labeling Sample Identification must match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements
  • Ship samples on Ice and/or Ice Packs.
  • Samples must be shipped for overnight delivery.
  • Ship according to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49.
Method
  • BAX® Real-Time PCR Screen
  • FDA Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM)- Chapter 4A
Turn-around Time 14 days
Interferences/Limitations
  • The sample should represent the outer surface as well as the interior of the food.
  • All milk samples must be tested within 60 hours of collection. 
  • Environmental swabs must be tested within 48 hours of collection.
Common Causes for Rejection
  • Not collected by a Registered Sanitarian
  • Insufficient quantity
  • Improperly stored
  • Failure to meet shipping guidelines
Additional Information N/A