Useful For:
Test Highlights:
Code | Name |
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RFTULM | F. tularensis IgM Antibody |
RFTULG | F. tularensis IgG Antibody |
RFTULI | F. tularensis Antibody Interp. |
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
Cautions:
False-negative results may occur in specimens collected too soon following symptom onset, prior to the development of a detectable immune response. Repeat testing on new specimens collected 2 to 4 weeks later may be helpful.
False-positive results may occur in patients previously or currently infected with Brucella species. Other less frequent causes of cross-reactivity that have been reported include prior infection with Yersinia, Salmonella, or Legionella species.
IgM-class antibodies may be detectable as soon as 1 week after symptom onset and may remain detectable for multiple years following resolution of disease in some individuals. Therefore, an IgM-positive result may not indicate current or recent infection in some cases.
There are multiple subspecies of Francisella tularensis, including F tularensis subspecies tularensis, F tularensis subspecies holarctica and F tularensis subspecies novicida, which are found throughout the northern hemisphere, including in the United States. The IgM and IgG anti-F tularensis enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests used at Mayo Clinic Laboratories are based on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) antigen of F tularensis. Although not directly tested, previous studies indicate that there are no antigenic differences between the LPS of F tularensis subspecies tularensis and the other subspecies. Therefore, these assays should not be used to differentiate between infections with the various F tularensis subspecies.
3 mL blood in RED TOP tube or GOLD TOP SST
Outside Laboratories: Centrifuge sample and transfer serum to a separate plastic vial. Refrigerate serum.
Stability: Refrigerated (preferred): 7 days; Frozen: 30 days; Ambient: Unacceptable.
Reject Due To: Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus, heat-inactivated specimen.
Centrifuge sample and transfer serum to a separate plastic aliquot. Refrigerate serum.
Sendouts,
Stability: Refrigerated (preferred): 7 days; Frozen: 30 days; Ambient: Unacceptable.
Reject Due To: Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus, heat-inactivated specimen.
Sendout |
Mayo Clinic Laboratories (Superior Drive)
800-533-1710 3050 Superior Drive NW |
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