We are pleased to inform you that we have obtained a Gen-Probe TIGRIS DTS Automated Analyser and that we are switching all our Chlamydia and N Gonorrhoeae NAAT testing to the Gen-Probe APTIMA COMBO 2 Assay, this will take effect from Monday 22nd February 2010. This change will allow us to streamline our Chlamydia testing service by increasing our sample throughput, with increased specificity and with no loss in sensitivity. The APTIMA Combo 2 assay will detect all strains of Chlamydia trachomatis including the new variant (nv(CT)) and will specifically detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae rather than Neisseria species. It will also reduce the number of equivocal and inhibitory results.
It will however, involve a change in transport media for the swab and urine specimens. The sampling kits will be provided in the usual manner via requisition forms and they require the swabs/ urine samples to be placed directly in the sample transport media (lysis buffer). This immediately lyses the sample thus stabilizing the specimens and negating the necessity of rapid transport of the sample to the laboratory. Any samples requiring C. trachomatis / N. gonorrhoeae testing NOT received in the appropriate lysis buffer after 1st March will NOT be tested. You will still require a stock of Red Topped Transport Media for any samples requiring Genital Herpes or Genital Ulcer Screening.
Routine Testing Protocols for Virus Detection
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Specimen
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Viruses Tested
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Clinical / Comments
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Respiratory Specimens
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RSV
Influenza A (including H1N1)
Influenza B
Parainfluenza (Types 1-4)
Adenovirus
Rhinovirus
Human Metapneumovirus
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Herpes simplex virus
Cytomegalovirus
Varicella zoster virus
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Additional tests for
Immunocompromised
Neonates
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Genital Swabs
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Herpes simplex virus
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Must send separate specimens and forms
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Chlamydia
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Genital Ulcerative Disease (GUD) screening (includes HSV1&2, T. pallidum and H. ducreyi)
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Urine
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Adenovirus
Polyomavirus
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Immunocompromised
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Cytomegalovirus
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Children under 16 years
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Chlamydia
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Genito-Urinary
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Skin Swabs
Vesicular Fluids
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Herpes simplex virus
Varicella zoster virus
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Mouth Swabs
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Herpes simplex virus
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Eye Swab
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Adenovirus
Herpes simplex virus
Enterovirus
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Vitreous Fluid
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Herpes simplex virus
Cytomegalovirus
Varicella zoster virus
Epstein-Barr Virus
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Faeces
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Adenovirus
Enterovirus
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Rotavirus
Adenovirus
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Adults >= 60 yrs
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Norovirus
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As part of outbreak
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Molecular Virology
A wide range of molecular diagnostic assays are provided, using genome amplification techniques to detect specific infections. These include viral load monitoring for blood-borne infections, such as HIV, HBV, HCV and CMV to measure response to drug therapy. In addtion, all tests traditionally carried out by Virus Isolation methods have been transferred to Molecular techniques, providing rapid and definative results for a range of acute viral infections.
Screening tests to help manage outbreak situations, such as Influenza, RSV and Norovirus are also carried out by this laboratory.
- Lead Consultant - Dr Husam Osman
- Lead BMS - Mrs Judith Workman
A complete list of currently available assays can be found in the pathology test database
Antiviral Resistance Testing Service (ARTS)
The ARTS is a national specialist unit. Assays are undertaken to determine the susceptibility of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
One of the key functions of ARTS is the collection of evidence relating to the role of drug resistance in clinical management and outcomes.
As part of an MRC surveillance programme on recent HIV seroconversions, HIV genotyping is also performed.
- Lead Consultant - Dr Ras Smit
- Lead BMS - Mrs Judith Workman
For full details see directorate test database
