Rabies Virus Antigen Detection by Direct Fluorescent Antibody, Cell Culture

Laboratory Fee Schedule
Procedure #: MCM0301A

Synonym(s):	Cell Culture Confirmation by DFA, Lyssavirus
Requisition Form	G-9
Test Description	Testing of brain tissue for viable rabies virus by inoculation of mouse neuroblastoma cells with specimen brain tissue.
Pre-Approval Needed	N/A
Supplemental Information Required	N/A
Supplemental Form(s)	N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources)	Deceased Non-Human Mammals
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing	Brain tissue from: All large animal specimens negative for rabies virus by DFA testing. Specimens with inconclusive or unsatisfactory results by DFA testing. Weak positive specimens needing amplification for monoclonal antibody typing.
Minimum Volume/Size Required	Animal head with intact brain (whole carcasses of small mammals such as bats, rats, or mice are accepted). Fresh brain tissue: complete transverse cross section of brain stem and a cross section of the cerebellum and/or hippocampus.
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping	Store at refrigeration temperatures (2°C–8°C). Do not submit live animals. Do not preserve tissue in formalin. Do not freeze.
Transport Medium	N/A
Specimen Labeling	Specimen labels and identification must match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements	See Rabies Specimen Shipping and Packing Instructions Here Two Page Flyer (texas.gov). Ship according to Biological Substance, Category B UN3373 shipping requirements.
Method	Cell culture Fluorescent microscopy
Turn-around Time	16 days
Interferences/Limitations	Decomposition or destruction of brain tissue.
Common Causes for Rejection	Insufficient specimen submitted (minimum volume not met). Improperly stored specimen (extreme heat, fixed in formalin). Failure to meet shipping or submission guidelines.
Additional Information	This is a confirmatory test only and cannot be requested by submitters. Laboratory will determine testing need.