Echinococcosis – Serology

Limitations

Haemolysed, icteric, lipemic or microbially contaminated sera or plasma are not recommended for testing.

Storage and Transport

Label the specimen container with the patient’s full name, date of collection and one other unique identifier such as the patient’s date of birth or Health Card Number. Failure to provide this information may result in rejection or testing delay.

Special Instructions

Centrifuge if using SST. Place specimen in biohazard bag and seal.

Test Frequency and Turnaround Time (TAT)

Echinococcus testing is performed once per week. 

Turnaround time is up to 10 days from receipt by PHO Laboratory.

Echinococcus serology test is performed using a commercial Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA). 

Reporting

Results are reported to the ordering physician or health care provider as indicated on the requisition.

References

LAB-SD-008, Blood Collection using Serum Separator Tubes