TBEV PCR

Test description

Real-time RT-PCR for the detection of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV).

Purpose of the test

Diagnosis in the acute phase of the disease (up to 7 days after disease onset).

Criteria for performing this test

• Clinical suspicion of recent infection (up to 7 days after disease onset).
• The interval between symptom onset and sample collection should be indicated on the application form.
• Clinical and epidemiological information should be provided on the request form.

Instructions for the sample

• Serum/plasma, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSV)
• Minimum amount of serum/plasma: 1 ml
• Minimum amount of CSV: 350 µl
• For stable RNA concentrations, serum should be separated immediately from blood cells and stored at 4°C.
• If transported to the NRC > 24 h, samples should be stored and shipped at -20°C.

Instructions for transport

• Samples stored at 4°C can be shipped at room temperature.
• Samples stored at -20°C should be shipped on dry ice.
• Transit time should be kept as short as possible (Avoid transportation during weekends or holidays).

Unacceptable request

Analysis will not be performed in case of:

• Sample collection outside the acute phase of disease (or date of onset of symptoms not communicated)
• Inappropriate or insufficient sample
• Improper transport or storage
• Application form not fully completed.

Turn around time (and frequency of analysis)

Average: 5 days.
Contact the laboratory if urgent diagnosis is required.

Reporting of test results

The report is sent by fax/mail.