Leptospira real-time PCR

Intended Use

To qualitatively detect pathogenic Leptospira spp. DNA using real-time PCR, aiding in the diagnosis of leptospirosis.

Specimen Required

Whole blood, Urine, or Kidney tissue samples

Patient Preparation

Sample Collection and Specimen Preparation:

- Whole Blood: Collect 2 tubes of 2 mL blood in lavender (EDTA). Collect in lavender (EDTA). Collection of blood before dialysis is preferred.
- Urine Specimen: Collect in a clean, nonmetal container without preservatives if the specimen is maintained refrigerated or on ice during collection and transport to the laboratory.
- Kidney Tissue:
Storage/Transport Temperature:
- - Whole Blood & Urine: Refrigerated
  - Kidney Tissue: Room temperature. Also acceptable: Refrigerated. Ship in cooled container during summer months.

Unacceptable Conditions
- Haemolyzed sample
- Under- or over-filled tubes of Urine container.
- Specimens submitted with nonrepresentative tissue type.
- Renal tissue containing no glomeruli.

Remarks: Proper aseptic technique and sample handling are critical to avoid contamination or degradation.
Stability:
- Whole blood: Ambient: 24 hrs; Refrigerated: 6 days; Frozen: 6 months.
- Urine: Ambient: 90 days; Refrigerated: 90 days; Frozen: Unacceptable.
- Kidney Tissue: Ambient: 48 hours; Refrigerated: 48 hours; Frozen: Unacceptable

Methodology

This assay uses qualitative real time PCR to detect and identify conserved region of Leptospira spp.

Sample Received to Report Turnaround Time (TAT)

Twice in a week (Scheduled Test)

Reference Interval

Positive or negative for presence of Leptospira DNA.

Interpretive Data

Refer to the Report.

Resources