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Respiratory PCR

Alternative Names:Influenza PCR
Parainfluenza PCR
RSV PCR
Adenovirus PCR (respiratory)
Human Metapneumovirus PCR
Picornavirus PCR
Viral PCR for respiratory viruses
Swab for respiratory viruses PCR
Laboratory:Microbiology
Test Code:Respiratory PCR, RESPPCR, RESPPCRA
Specimen Types:Swab
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Bronchial Washings
Sputum
Container Types:
Viral Transport Medium
Plain 70mL pot
Collection & Request Instructions:

Viral transport medium swabs are available from Pathology Central Specimen Processing.

Rapid testing for Influenza A, Influenza B and RSV is performed on all specimens. 

Reflex testing using the extended respiratory virus PCR panel will be performed on samples that are negative for the rapid influenza/RSV test on the following patients:

  • ICU patients
  • Patients in 5 East
  • Lung transplant patients, where this is clearly stated in the clinical notes.
  • Cystic fibrosis patients, where this is clearly stated in the clinical notes.
  • All BAL samples.
  • Clinical Haematology patients in 7 East and 7 West

If extended respiratory virus PCR is required on patients who do not fit these criteria, discussion with the Medical Microbiologist is required. Add-ons via request slip without prior consultation will not be accepted.

Refer to the Alfred Health guideline "Management of Seasonal Influenza" for instructions to collect nose/throat swabs.

Mouth swabs are not an acceptable specimen.

Transport Instructions between Sites and/or Laboratories:RoomTemp within Alfred/Esky from External sites
Assay Frequency:Weekdays
Additional Notes:

The following respiratory pathogens are detected with the extended panel: Influenza A/B, Parainfluenza 1,2,3, RSV, Adenovirus, Human Metapneumovirus, Rhinovirus/Enterovirus, Bordetella pertussis and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Turn around time for the extended panel is 36 to 48 hours (longer over weekends).