Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- EDTA Whole Blood
- Sputum
- BAL
- BAL
At least 500ul of respiratory specimen or 3ml EDTA blood will be required for testing
Turnaround Time
3 daysSample Stability
Where possible, blood and respiratory specimens should be stored at +4°C. All specimens should be transported to the laboratory the same day. After testing, samples are stored at -20°C for 3 months (respiratory specimens) or 2 yrs (blood).Pneumocystis jirovecii real-time PCR
General Information
The assay is used for qualitative detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii DNA in BAL, sputum and blood specimens from immunocompromised patients (predominantly HIV-positive patients, immunosuppressed transplant recipients and patients on chemotherapy for haematological malignancies).
Patient Preparation
For general aspects of taking samples we recommend that users follow either their local protocols or “The Royal Marsden Manual of Clinical Nursing Procedures”.
Lavender top blood (EDTA) sample
- Sufficient blood for the test should be drawn into lavender topped (EDTA) vacuum tubes
- Invert tube 8–10 times.
Sputum
- Ask patient to take three deep breaths in through their nose, exhale through pursed lips and then force a deep cough.
- Ask patient to expectorate into a 20ml white top sterile sample container.
Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL)
- BAL should be collected according to local protocols using sterile fluids as the instillate.
- Recovered lavage fluid should be aseptically transferred to a 20ml white top sterile sample container
Specifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
- EQA Status: QCMD