Test Overview
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Establish diagnosis of pertussis (whooping cough).
No Bordetella pertussis/parapertussis DNA detected.
The test should be performed only on patients with symptoms and clinical presentation consistent with pertussis. This test should not be used as a screening test, or for identification of "exposed individuals". False positive results are possible when testing asymptomatic colonized individuals. Cross-reactivity has been shown to occur with Bordetella holmseii, but the clinical significance of this is unknown.
Test Details
1 day
- BPFA
- PCRBP
- BORDETELLA PERT/PARAPERT PCR
- Whooping Cough DNA by PCR
- BORDETELLA DIRECT FA SMEAR
- Pertussis DNA by PCR
Specimen Requirements
Swab posterior nasopharynx with calcium alginate, rayon, or dacron swab and place in M-4 RT media. Can be transported and stored at refrigerated or room temperature for up to 5 days. Do not use BD Eswab collection kit.
Additional Information
PCR test includes DNA detection for Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis.