Molecular Biology - Testing by Organism

Molecular Biology Home | Molecular Testing by Organism | PulseNet Lab: South Central Region -

Organism

Testing method

Specimen requirements

Expected results turn-around

Testing frequency

Arboviruses (EEE, WEE, SLE)

Real-time PCR

Specimens are received from the Arbovirus-Entomology Team

14 days

Weekly

Bordetella species (pertussis, parapertussis, and holmesii)

Real-time PCR

Collection Requirements: Submit as Rayon or Dacro non-bloody swab with aluminum or plastic handle without transport media. Transport: Must be transported on wet ice or cold packs (not dry ice). Specimens must be shipped within 48 hours of collection and received at DSHS within 7 days of collection

Within two working days of receipt, though next day is typical.

Daily M-F

E. coli

Real-time PCR

Specimens are received from the Clinical Bacteriology Team as a pure isolate on an agar slant.

11 days

Weekly

E. coli, Pseudomonas species, Neisseria meningitides strains, Ralstonia species, Acinetobacter species, Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA), Enterococcus species, Streptococcus species, Serratia species, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Listeria species

PFGE

Specimens are received from the Clinical Bacteriology Team as a pure isolate on an agar slant.

14 days

Daily M-F

Norovirus

Real-time PCR

Non-bloody and non-dried stool specimens are the only accepted sample types. An acceptable specimen should not contain any preservatives or transport media.

Submitters must send at least 200-400 µL of fresh stool in a dry container.

Stool samples are to be transported on wet ice or cold packs (not dry ice) and stored refrigerated until processed for RNA extractions.

Within two working days of specimen receipt.

Within 24 hours of specimen receipt.

Plasmodium

Real-time PCR

Specimens requirements: At least 0.2 ml fresh or frozen whole blood or blood that has been treated with citrate, heparin, or EDTA. Typical sample is contained in a purple top vacutainer.

Within two working days of receipt, though next day is typical

As needed, M-F

Serology and PFGE

Send as a pure isolate on an agar slant.

Real-time PCR

14 days

Daily M-F

Shigella

Serology and PFGE

Send as a pure isolate on an agar slant.

14 days

Daily M-F

West Nile Virus

Real-time PCR

Specimens are received from the Arbovirus-Entomology Team

14 days

Weekly

(888) 963-7111 ext. 7784 toll free

Laboratory Services Section
Department of State Health Services, Mail Code 1947
PO Box 149347
Austin, TX 78714-9347