Tick-born encephalitis virus – serology and PCR

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Molecular detection and serologic detection of antibodies to Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV)
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Serology: serum ○ PCR: • Serum • Whole blood • Plasma • CSF • Tissue

Other Information

○ Molecular testing is not a routine test.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum/whole blood: Serum separator tube (clotted blood) or red top tube
○ Plasma: EDTA-tube (lavender top), citrated or heparinized tube
○ CSF/tissue: sterile container

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, perform lumbar puncture to collect at least 0.5 mL of CSF in sterile container.
Tissue:
○ Collect 5-10 mm3 tissue aseptically using surgical technique. Place in a clean, sterile container with a small amount of sterile saline

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 14 days after receipt at NML

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4634

Approval Required

YES; please notify laboratory

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. PHOL will refer the specimen to NML for testing.