Ehrlichia/Anaplasma, Molecular Detection, PCR, Blood
Use
This test is useful for evaluating patients suspected of acute anaplasmosis or ehrlichiosis. Anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis are emerging zoonotic tick-borne infections caused by Anaplasma and Ehrlichia species, respectively. These infections can cause a potentially serious febrile illness in humans. The Mayo Clinic PCR assay is capable of detecting and differentiating Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Ehrlichia ewingii, and Ehrlichia muris eauclairensis, providing a definitive diagnosis of these infections, particularly in the early stages of illness where PCR is most sensitive and specific.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The test should only be used for testing patients with signs and symptoms of ehrlichiosis or anaplasmosis. A negative result does not exclude the presence of the disease. The test does not detect DNA of Rickettsia sennetsu, which can cause a rare mononucleosis-like illness. Inadequate specimen collection or improper conditions for storage or transport may invalidate test results.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (qPCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 87548-4 - A phag+Ehrl sp DNA Pnl Bld NAA+n-prb
- 87558-3 - A phago groEL Bld Ql NAA+n-prb
- 87559-1 - E chaff groEL Bld Ql NAA+n-prb
- 87560-9 - E canis+ewin groEL Bld Ql NAA+n-prb
- 87561-7 - E muris eaucl groEL Bld Ql NAA+non-prb
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 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
Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |