Bartonella, Molecular Detection, PCR, Blood
Use
This test aids in diagnosing Bartonella infection when Bartonella DNA is expected to be present in blood, particularly in cases of endocarditis. Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana are gram-negative bacilli associated with conditions such as cat scratch disease, bacillary angiomatosis, and trench fever. PCR is used for rapid identification, targeting the citrate synthase (gltA) gene of Bartonella species. Traditional diagnostic methods like Warthin-Starry staining or serology may be nonspecific or yield false negatives.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
This test does not differentiate between Bartonella henselae and Bartonella quintana. A negative result does not exclude the possibility of Bartonella infection, as it may be due to PCR inhibition, sequence variability, or low DNA quantities below detection limits. Test results should be correlated with clinical signs.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (RT-PCR)
Biomarkers
Bartonella
Microorganism
LOINC Codes
- 16275-0 - Bartonella DNA Bld Ql NAA+probe
- 31208-2 - Specimen source
- 16275-0 - Bartonella DNA Bld Ql NAA+probe
Result Turnaround Time
2-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Lavender top (EDTA), royal blue top (EDTA), pink top (EDTA), or sterile vial containing EDTA-derived aliquot
Collection Instructions
Send whole blood specimen in original tube (preferred).
Causes for Rejection
Bone marrow
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |