Burkholderia mallei and pseudomallei (Please notify laboratory if suspected)

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Molecular detection of Burkholderia mallei/pseudomallei
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Bacteriology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ CSF ○ Biopsy tissue

Other Information

○ Ensure laboratory is notified if an infection by these organisms is suspected

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Whole blood: EDTA tube
○ CSF/biopsy tissue: Sterile container; biopsy tissue should have small amount of sterile saline to prevent drying

Collection Requirements

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.

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ 4 days for preliminary result; Up to 28 days for final result

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4432

Approval Required

○ YES; laboratory should be notified if this agent is suspected

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ 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