Francisella tularensis Antibody, IgG, ELISA, Serum
Use
Evaluating the presence of IgG antibodies in patients with suspected tularemia caused by Francisella tularensis. This test is used to support a diagnosis of current or recent tularemia in patients who are IgG positive in paired sera collected 2 to 3 weeks apart. It helps in confirming clinical suspicion of the disease and potential exposure to the pathogen.
Special Instructions
This test is only orderable as part of a profile. For more information, see TULAB / Francisella tularensis Antibody, IgM and IgG, ELISA, Serum. It should not be used as a test of cure as it is not quantitative. Patients may remain seropositive for months to years following resolution of disease.
Limitations
False-negative results may occur in specimens collected too soon following symptom onset, prior to the development of a detectable immune response. Repeat testing on new specimens collected 2 to 4 weeks later may be helpful. False-positive results may occur in patients previously or currently infected with Brucella species. Other less frequent causes of cross-reactivity include prior infection with Yersinia, Salmonella, or Legionella species. IgM-class antibodies may remain detectable for multiple years following resolution of disease in some individuals. These assays should not be used to differentiate between infection with various Francisella tularensis subspecies.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 93717-7
- 93717-7
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.6 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus, and heat-inactivated specimen are causes for rejection.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |
