Last updated on 29-7-2025 by Amber Van Laer
Description of tests
- Detection of IgG and IgM antibodies (IFA on serum),
- Detection of DNA of Anaplasma phagocytophilum (PCR on EDTA blood)
- Detection of morulae in neutrophils (microscopy on blood smear)
Purpose of tests
Diagnosis of human anaplasmosis.
Criteria for performing these tests carried out within the framework of the activities of the national reference centre
- Possibility of recent exposure to ticks + fever + at least one of the following symptoms:
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Leucopenia, thrombocytopenia
- Increase in transaminases
- Nausea, vomiting, anorexia
- Rash
- Tremors, sweating, fatigue, malaise
- Morulae in the cytoplasm of neutrophils
- Recent positive or questionable serology.
► Indicate clinical and epidemiological information on the NRC request form; otherwise, the test will not be performed.
Instructions for samples
- For serology: Serum (minimum 1 mL). Ideally, an initial sample shortly after symptom appearance and a follow-up sample three weeks later.
- For PCR: K2-EDTA (minimum 1 mL,). The collection should be done before the administration of antibiotics. PCR is especially useful in the first week after symptom appearance.
- For microscopy: blood smear (not stained). Collection before administration of antibiotics. Meaningful in the first week after the appearance of symptoms.
Instructions for transport
- Serum can be sent at room temperature.
- EDTA blood can be sent at room temperature.
Unacceptable requests
- Wrong or insufficient sample
- Application form not completed in full.
Turn-around time (and frequency of analysis)
Frequency of analysis: once a week.
Reporting of test results
A protocol will be sent to the requesting laboratory by fax or post.
Accreditation
Is the analysis accredited?
Materials and methods
Material(s):
Method reference:
-
Turnaround time and time slots
Turnaround time:
10 days
Request forms
URL to form(s):
Analysis categories
Medical