Bordetella pertussis Culture
Also known as: MC PERT
Use
The Bordetella pertussis Culture test is CDC-recommended for the diagnosis of pertussis (whooping cough). This culture-based method is used to detect the presence of the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, which causes the infection. It is particularly useful for confirming diagnosis in suspected cases of pertussis, especially in cases where PCR results might be negative due to the stage of infection.
Special Instructions
The specimen source is preferred for accurate reporting. Collect either a nasal aspirate or a nasopharyngeal swab. Ensure proper specimen transport and storage conditions to maintain viability and accuracy of results.
Limitations
A negative culture result does not exclude the possibility of Bordetella pertussis infection as the culture method may not be sensitive enough to detect all cases. The test's performance characteristics have been determined by ARUP Laboratories but it has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. The culture process may also take time, delaying the diagnosis and subsequent treatment in some cases.
New York Approved
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 549-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-8 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Nasopharyngeal Swab
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Regan-Lowe transport media
Collection Instructions
Place swab in Regan-Lowe transport media and incubate for 24-48 hours at 35°C. Also acceptable: Swab in Jones Kendrick media or Amies with charcoal media, or swabs in described media sent directly without incubation.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature or refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Sputum, Eswabs, or medias other than listed above.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 48 hours |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant