Burkholderia mallei and pseudomallei (Please notify laboratory if suspected)
Molecular detection of Burkholderia mallei/pseudomallei
Microbiology
Bacteriology
○ Whole blood
○ CSF
○ Biopsy tissue
Other Information
○ Ensure laboratory is notified if an infection by these organisms is suspected
○ Whole blood: EDTA tube ○ CSF/biopsy tissue: Sterile container; biopsy tissue should have small amount of sterile saline to prevent drying
Whole blood/serum/plasma: ○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood CSF: ○ Decontaminate skin, collect at least 0.5 mL of CSF for this test
Biopsy tissue: ○ Collect 5-10 mm3 tissue (at least 0.5 grams) aseptically using surgical technique. Place in a clean, sterile container with a small amount of sterile saline to prevent drying. Keep at room temperature (20-25˚C) if a delay in transport is anticipated.
Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery
PHOL
○ 4 days for preliminary result; Up to 28 days for final result
416-586-4800 extension 4463
○ YES; laboratory should be notified if this agent is suspected
○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.
○ Transport specimens to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at room temperature (20-25˚C) ASAP after collection
○ The specimen will be referred to the National Microbiology Laboratory for testing