Escherichia coli (Shiga Toxin Producing) Isolation (including O157)

Test Order - Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) Isolation (Including E. coli O157)

Synonym(s) - E. coli O157 Clearance, E. coli O157 Isolation, Non-O157 Shiga Toxin Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) Isolation, STEC Clearance

Methodology - Culture, biochemical identification, latex agglutination, real time Shiga toxin gene (stx1/stx2) PCR, immunochromatographic rapid toxin assay

Acceptable Specimen Type(s) for Testing - Stool specimens in PARA-PAK C&S; Shiga toxin positive Mac or GN broths held at refrigeration (2 to 8°C) until testing.

Transport / Collection Medium - PARA-PAK C&S: mix well after collection. Refrigerate, and deliver to the laboratory within 3 days of collection. Toxin-positive 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 - GN/MAC broths: toxin testing results.

Send Out? - Yes (Shiga toxin gene PCR and limited serogrouping performed in-house)

Turnaround Time - Up to 8 weeks

Testing Restrictions - None

Limitations / Notes / Disclaimers - Delays in GN/Mac broth submissions to the laboratory can lead to reduced success in STEC isolation and characterization. This Shiga toxin gene 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.