Cysticercosis

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of cystercercosis antibodies
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ Serum ○ CSF (only if Neurocysticercosis suspected)

Other Information

○ An acute and convalescent sera may be required for serodiagnosis

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum: serum separator tube (5mL)
○ CSF: sterile container (1mL)

Collection Requirements

Whole blood/serum:
○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood
CSF:
○ Decontaminate skin, collect at least 1 mL of CSF by lumbar puncture.

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 42 days from receipt at PHO laboratory

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4480

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored at room temperature (20-25˚C) after collection and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP.

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing