Aerobic Isolate for ID ( Gram + Rod r/o Bacillus anthracis)

Test Description

Confirmatory identification of clinical gram positive rod isolates as Bacillus anthracis. Organisms other than B. anthracis will not be identified.

Test Use

To rule out infection caused by Bacillus anthracis

Test Department

Bioterrorism Response

Phone: (860) 920-6550

Methodology

Gamma Phage Lysis Assay, PCR

Availability

Daily, Monday-Friday

Specimen Requirements

Pure culture of a clinical isolate submitted on agar slant (preferred) or plate.

Suspect colonies should be aerobic, non-motile, non-hemolytic, opaque, white to gray-white with a “ground glass” appearance when grown on 5% sheep blood agar.

Collection Kit/Container

RC

To obtain collection kit, refer to page 66

Collection Instructions

Specimen Handling and transport

Store and transport isolates at ambient temperature. Avoid temperature extremes. Follow all applicable federal packaging & shipping regulations.

Unacceptable Conditions

Unlabeled specimens

Specimens that have broken or leaked in transit

Specimens in viral transport media

Requisition Form

Clinical Test Requisition (select Aerobic Isolate for ID)

Required Information

Name and address of submitter (and/or Horizon profile #)

Patient name or identifier, town of residence (city, state, zip), date of birth.

Specimen type or source, date collected, test(s) requested.

Please ensure patient name on the requisition matches that on the specimen.

Limitations

Organisms other than B. anthracis will not be identified

Additional Information

Please alert the laboratory prior to specimen submission if B. anthracis is strongly suspected.