Tetanus - serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of antibodies to Tetanus (Clostridium tetani toxin)
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ Serum

Other Information

○ Only performed in instances of humoral immunodeficiency or adverse reaction to Tetanus vaccine.
○ The results may aid diagnosis of immunodeficiency, but are not diagnostic proof of protection/immunity against Tetanus or the presence/absence of immunodeficiency.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum separator tube (clotted blood) (min volume 5 mL)

Collection Requirements

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

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 28 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4633

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

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

○ Specimens should be transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) ASAP after collection

○ The specimen will be referred to PHOL for testing