Test Description
In a second step, the isolates are studied in more detail by LM-UGent.
Molecular Confirmation of Identification
LM-UGent uses the most appropriate identification techniques to definitively confirm the identification of isolates, i.e., sequencing of a specific gene, for example, the recA gene for the Burkholderia cepacia complex.
Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST)
- All Burkholderia spp. from patients with cystic fibrosis will be typed using the MLST method derived from WGS data.
- Isolates from other patients will only be typed by MLST if there is a particular indication.
Test Purpose
The association between a poor clinical evolution of lung function in cystic fibrosis patients and the presence of certain microorganisms in respiratory samples is still insufficiently documented.
A “cepacia syndrome” with rapid deterioration and sometimes a fatal outcome in the short term has been associated with infection by B. cenocepacia.
However, it is unclear whether all strains of this species or only a subgroup are responsible for this unfavourable clinical picture, or if other species in this group also show increased virulence.
Criteria for Performing This Test as Part of Reference Activities
- Cystic Fibrosis Patients: These tests will be performed systematically once a year per patient unless RAPD shows that a new strain has emerged.
- Other patients: These tests are only performed for special cases and taxonomic studies.
Sample Collection
Specimen
Not applicable (see above)
Preservation
Not applicable (see above)
Transport
Not applicable (see above)
Unacceptable Requests
Indications
Not applicable (see above)
Samples
Not applicable (see above)
Turnaround Time
- Molecular Confirmation of Identification: Maximum 17 days
- Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST): Maximum 90 days. Please contact the NRC if human-to-human transmission is suspected.
Transmission of Results
The results will be transmitted by UZ Brussel. (see above)