Rickettsia: serology

Test description

IFA for the detection of antibodies against Rickettsia typhi (typhus group) / Rickettsia conori (spotted fever group).

Purpose of the test

Diagnosis: Laboratory diagnosis of rickettsiosis is made by demonstrating seroconversion of antibodies on paired serum samples. Since seroconversion can occur up to 3 weeks after the onset of symptoms, PCR may be useful in the early phase of the disease (see Rickettsia: PCR).

Criteria for performing this test

• Clinical suspicion.
• Unless this is a confirmation (in that case, please state your own result on the request form), billing is done according to the NIHDI nomenclature.

Instructions for samples

• Serum
• Minimum quantity: 1 ml
• Store at 4°C

Instructions for transport

• Samples can be shipped at room temperature.
• Transit time should be kept as short as possible (Avoid transport over weekends or holidays).

Unacceptable requests

Analyses cannot be performed if there is an insufficient sample.

Turn around time (and frequency of analysis)

On average: 4 days.

Reporting of test results

The report is sent by fax, post or e-mail.