Coxiella burnetii (Q Fever), Molecular Detection, PCR, Blood
Use
Aiding in the diagnosis of Coxiella burnetii infection (eg, Q fever). Real‑Time PCR rapidly detects C. burnetii DNA by targeting a sequence of the shikimate dehydrogenase gene (aroE) unique to the organism. Useful in diagnosing acute and certain chronic infections where serologic tests may be nonspecific or non‑diagnostic.
Special Instructions
For information see Infective Endocarditis: Diagnostic Testing for Identification of Microbiological Etiology. Ordering requires completion of Microbiology Test Request (T244) if not ordering electronically.
Limitations
Results should be used as an aid in diagnosis and not be considered diagnostic alone; negative results do not rule out infection and should be correlated clinically. Performance characteristics were determined under CLIA conditions; the test is not FDA cleared/approved. PCR sensitivity may be affected by contamination, sequence variability, inhibition, or low organism numbers.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 90443-3
- 31208-2
- 90443-3
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 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); acceptable Royal blue top (EDTA), pink top (EDTA), or sterile vial with EDTA-derived aliquot
Collection Instructions
Send whole blood specimen in original tube (preferred).
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |