Test ID: BPRP
Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis, Molecular Detection, PCR
Specimen Type
Describes the specimen type needed for testing
Specimen Required
Defines the optimal specimen. This field describes the type of specimen required to perform the test and the preferred volume to complete testing. The volume allows automated processing, fastest throughput and, when indicated, repeat or reflex testing.
Forms: If not ordering electronically, submit a Microbiology Request Form (Supply T244) with the specimen.
Specimen source is required.
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Preferred:
Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal swab
Container/Tube: Rayon swab with an aluminum shaft placed in transport medium such as Stuart's with charcoal or Amies with charcoal (Transwab Nasopharyngeal with Charcoal System [Supply T286])
Additional Information: Other swab or media types may be inhibitory to PCR testing and will be rejected.
Acceptable:
Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal (not throat) aspirate/wash or nasal aspirate/wash
Container/Tube: Sterile container
Specimen Volume: Entire collection
Specimen Minimum Volume
Defines the amount of specimen required to perform an assay once, including instrument and container dead space. Submitting the minimum specimen volume makes it impossible to repeat the test or perform confirmatory or perform reflex testing. In some situations, a minimum specimen volume may result in a QNS (quantity not sufficient) result, requiring a second specimen to be collected.
Reject Due To
Identifies specimen types and conditions that may cause the specimen to be rejected
| Hemolysis | NA |
| Lipemia | NA |
| Icterus | NA |
| Other | Nose, nasal, or throat swab; calcium alginate or cotton-tipped swab; swab sent in gel transport medium, viral/universal transport medium, or Regan Lowe media; specimen in Stuart's or Amies medium without charcoal |
Specimen Stability Information
Provides a description of the temperatures required to transport a specimen to the laboratory. Alternate acceptable temperature(s) are also included.
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varies | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
| Ambient | 7 days |


