Test Overview
Test Methodology

Neutralization studies in mice.

Test Usage

Diagnosis of Botulism

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily
Analytic Time

7 - 10 days

Soft Order Code
SO
Synonyms
  • Botulism Antitoxin Test
  • Toxin, Botulism
  • Infant Botulism
  • Clostridium botulinum Toxin Test
Laboratory
Sendout
Reference Laboratory
MDHHS
Section
Special Testing
Specimen Requirements
Collection Instructions

The ordering clinician must contact the MDHHS Bureau of Epidemiology (BOE) for approval for testing prior to collecting specimen. Contact the BOE 517-335-8165 (days) or 517-335-9030 (outside normal business hours). Collect blood in a red top tube. Centrifuge, aliquot into a plastic tube and refrigerate. Place stool or vomitus in a clean plastic container and refrigerate. Implicated food (0.5 cup minimum) may also be submitted for testing.

Special Handling

Obtain approval for testing BEFORE collecting specimen.

Normal Volume
4 mL serum; 25 grams stool; 5 mL vomitus
Minimum Volume
3 mL serum; 15 grams stool; 5 mL vomitus
Additional Information

The decision to implement antitoxin treatment is an urgent clinical decision, and should not be dependent on laboratory testing. Release of antitoxin for treatment from CDC requires consultation with MDHHS Bureau of Epidemiology (BOE). In suspect cases, the attending/ordering physician should contact the BOE at 517-335-8165 (days) or 517-335-9030 (outside of normal business hours) to confirm the patient meets the clinical criteria, which include: Evidence of cranial nerve palsy (drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, double or blurred vision, dry mouth); Muscle weakness that moves progressively down the body, affecting the shoulders first, then descending to the upper arms, lower arms, thighs, calves, etc.; Shortness of breath and difficulty maintaining adequate breathing may ensue.; Constipation may or may not be present. Test sent to Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS); although there is no charge for testing, MLabs charges a handling fee for processing and forwarding specimens to MDHHS.

Billing
CPT Code
99001
Fee Code
20230