Bordetella pertussis/holmesii, RT-PCR

This assay detects B. pertussis (causative agent of whooping cough) or B. holmesii DNA by real-time PCR in clinical specimens.

Storage and Transport Criteria: Specimen Storage Specimen Transport

Acceptable Specimens

Minimum Volume

Frozen Range
-70°C - 0°C

Refrigerated Range
0.1°C - 8°C

Room Temperature Range
8.1°C - 30°C

Stability at
4°C - 25°C

NP swab in VTM 2-3 mLs VTM Reject Acceptable up to 72 hours Acceptable up to 72 hours 8 hours
Includes: This test can distinguish between B. pertussis and B. holmesii.
Methodology: RT-PCR
Assay Category: LDT (Laboratory Developed Test)
Reference Range: See laboratory report
Alternative Names: Bordetella pertussis/holmesii DNA

Qualitative, Real-Time PCR

Whooping cough PCR
Preferred Specimen(s): NP swab in VTM
Alternative Specimen(s): Dry NP swab
Minimum Volume: 2-3 mLs VTM
Special Instructions: N/A
Reject Criteria: Inadequately labeled specimens

Leaking specimens

QNS (quantities not sufficient)

Specimens not meeting the Storage & Transport criteria upon receipt at laboratory
Setup Schedule: Testing is performed on an as-needed basis.
Turn around time (TAT): 2 business days from arrival at the lab

Acceptable Specimens	Minimum Volume	Frozen Range -70°C - 0°C	Refrigerated Range 0.1°C - 8°C	Room Temperature Range 8.1°C - 30°C	Stability at 4°C - 25°C
		Specimen Storage			Specimen Transport
NP swab in VTM	2-3 mLs VTM	Reject	Acceptable up to 72 hours	Acceptable up to 72 hours	8 hours