Brucella Antibody (Total) by Agglutination
Also known as: BRUC
Use
The Brucella Antibody (Total) by Agglutination test is a serological test used to detect recent infection caused by Brucella species. This diagnostic tool is used in the context of a clinically compatible illness along with an exposure history suggestive of brucellosis. A single high serum titer or a significant rise in titer between acute and convalescent specimens may indicate brucellosis when correlated with clinical findings.
Special Instructions
Specimens must be marked as 'acute' or 'convalescent' for parallel testing. Convalescent specimens need to be received within 30 days from receipt of the acute specimen. It's crucial to perform this test in conjunction with tests for F. tularensis to distinguish potential cross-reactions.
Limitations
Cross-reactions can occur between Brucella and Francisella tularensis antigens and antisera, so parallel tests should be run with these antigens to ensure specificity. A single serum titer of 1:80 or 1:160 is only suggestive of brucellosis and must be evaluated alongside the patient's clinical history. Freeze/thaw cycles may affect sample integrity, hence should be avoided.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 19053-8
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
Contaminated, heat-inactivated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 6 months (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles) |