Escherichia coli (Shiga Toxin Producing) Toxin Gene PCR (including O157)

Test Order Name - Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) Shiga Toxin Gene PCR

Synonym(s) - STEC PCR, stx1/stx2 gene PCR, Shiga Toxin Gene PCR

Methodology - Real Time Shiga Toxin Gene PCR

Acceptable Specimen Type(s) for Testing - Pure isolates, previously identified as Escherichia coli; GN or Mac broth; Stool in PARA-PAK C&S.

Transport / Collection Medium - Pure isolates: transport on nutrient agar slant, packaged and sealed according to regulations. PARA-PAK C&S: mix well after collection. Refrigerate, and deliver to the laboratory within 3 days of collection. GM/Mac broths: packaged and sealed according to regulations.

Storage and Preservation of Specimen - Refrigerate until transported to the laboratory. Transport at room temperature.

Minimum Volume Required - PARA-PAK C&S: Fill to line (do NOT overfill).

Additional Collection Instructions - None

Additional Required Information - None

Send Out? - No

Turnaround Time - 10 business days (Monday through Friday)

Limitations / Notes / Disclaimers - Delays in GN/Mac broth submissions to the laboratory can lead to reduced success in STEC isolation. This PCR assay was developed and its performance characteristics were determined by the San Francisco Public Health Laboratory. It has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has determined that such approval is not necessary and results should not be regarded as investigational or for research.