MIDL PCR Ehrlichia/Anaplasma (EHD)
Department: Molecular Infectious Disease
Test Synonym(s): LAB3482, EHD, Ehrlichia DNA, Ehrlichia PCR
CPT Codes: 87798
Methodology: PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
Reference Range: Not detected
Tube Type: CSF container - 1.0 mL , lavender top (EDTA) - 4.0 mL
Specimen: CSF or whole blood
Alternate Specimen: Need Medical Director approval
Pediatric Requirements: CSF container - 1.0 mL, lavender top (EDTA) - 1.0 mL
Volume: 1.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Temperature: Room Temperature: same day, refrigerated: overnight, frozen: longer than overnight
Stability: Room temperature: same day, refrigerated: overnight, frozen: longer than overnight
Reasons for Rejection: Alternative specimen sent without Medical Director approval
Days Performed: Monday, Wednesday and Friday
Times Performed: Once per day on Monday, Wednesday and Friday (batched)
TAT: 24 hours (Monday - Friday)
Significance: Human ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne rickettsial disease of great public health concern in the United States. Clinical diagnosis of human ehrlichiosis has been difficult because its typical nonspecific presentation of symptoms include fever, headache, myalgias, arthralgias and nausea. This is easily confused with other illnesses such as influenza or other tick-borne zoonoses such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. This PCR assay for detection of ehrlichiosis makes it possible for early, specific diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Special Instructions: Other sources or samples may be acceptable for this test; please check with the lab, 615-936-6435.
Click here to print the Molecular Diagnostics requisition.
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