Pneumocystis jiroveci, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies
Use
Pneumocystis pneumonia is an important cause of opportunistic infection in patients who are immunocompromised, particularly those with HIV. The causative agent, Pneumocystis jiroveci, cannot be cultured in vitro, and, therefore, laboratory detection has historically relied upon microscopic identification directly from patient specimens using fluorescent stains or antibodies. This real-time PCR assay provides sensitive and specific detection of Pneumocystis from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and other respiratory specimens.
Special Instructions
Specimen must arrive within 7 days of collection; specimens older than 7 days will be rejected. Specimen source is required and must be clearly indicated on the order form. Only fresh, non-NALC/NaOH-digested body fluid is acceptable for preferred specimens.
Limitations
Test results should be used as an aid in diagnosis and not considered diagnostic in themselves. Pneumocystis can cause asymptomatic colonization in healthy individuals and those who are immunocompromised. A negative result does not rule out the presence or active disease as the organism may be present at undetectable levels.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (Real-Time)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 89996-3
- 89996-3
- 31208-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sterile container
Collection Instructions
Submit fresh, non-NALC/NaOH-digested body fluid only.
Causes for Rejection
Body fluid other than pleural fluid, paraffin-embedded tissue, specimen in anaerobe vial or viral transport medium, feces, swab, tissue in formalin fluid, urine.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |