Detection of botulinum toxins (reference method in vivo)

Description of the Test

Details:

Detection and typing of botulinum toxins type A, B, E, or F present in serum by means of a lethality test in mice and seroneutralization.

Test Results:

• Botulinum neurotoxin: detected / not detected
• Neurotoxin type in case of botulism: A, B, E, or F

Purpose of the Test

Detection and typing of botulinum toxin types A, B, E, or F present in serum for the diagnosis of botulism

Criteria for Performing this Test within the Framework of Reference Activities

• Laboratory confirmation of clinical cases of botulism
• Typing of the neurotoxin responsible for botulism

Sample Instructions

• Type: Serum
• Minimum quantity:
  For detection of botulinum neurotoxin: at least 3 mL of serum
  For determination of the botulinum neurotoxin type: at least 10 mL of serum
• Note: In cases of suspected botulism, it is strongly recommended to provide both a serum and a fecal sample to the NRC. Serum samples should be collected as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms and before administration of antitoxins.

Transport Instructions

• Transport in appropriate packaging: https://www.biosafety.be/content/transport-annexes#6
• Transport at room temperature or in a cool box within <48 hours.

Unacceptable Requests

Damaged containers or samples that have leaked inside the packaging.

Turnaround Time (and Frequency of Analysis)

• Turnaround time: 10 working days
• Analysis days: Monday–Tuesday–Wednesday–Thursday–Friday–Saturday–Sunday

Reporting of Test Results

• A written report of the test results will be issued.
• If the analysis cannot be performed, a test report will be issued stating “not analyzed” along with an explanatory comment.