Test Directory

Legionella Urinary Antigen Testing

Containers - Adult

SterileUniversal20ml.jpg
20ml Sterile Universal Container
Volume Range

Ur​ine taken into Sterile Universal Container

Laboratory Site

RIE
51 Little France Crescent
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Telephone (Virology): Microbiology/Virology Office: 0131 536 3373 (option 1)
Telephone (Bacteriology): 0131 242 6021 OOH Bleep 2900
SJH
Howden Road West
Howden
Livingston
West Lothian
EH54 6PP
Telephone (Bacteriology): 01506 52 3075 OOH contact RIE

Transport arrangements

Useful: in adult patients hospitalised with severe pneumonia, where preferred sputum or BAL samples are unavailable.

Transport as soon as is practicable. (within 24 hours).

Sample storage arrangements

If delay in transporting, store in the fridge (4-6°C).

 

Special instructions for collection

A sputum or BAL sample for the respiratory pathogen PCR panel (which includes Legionella) is the preferred sample for diagnosis as it includes several differential diagnoses. However, sputum or BAL may not always be available, and therefore urinary antigen testing may be appropriate. Do not send in boric acid containers; they cannot be processed. Specimens will only be tested for Legionella urinary antigen if the patient meets at least one of the following criteria:
• Intensive Care patient
• Immuno-compromised/suppressed patient
• CURB65 score ≥3
• Recent foreign travel
• Spa exposure

How to request

Via Trak ("Legionella Urinary Ag Profile") or by request form, or GP comms.

Availability

0900-1700 (RIE + SJH)

Anticipated turnaround

2 days

What happens if the result is positive or abnormal

Telephoned by microbiologist.

Static information/disclaimer

​Suitable for detection of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 antigen only

General additional information

​Clinical indication for test:

Adult patient hospitalised with severe pneumonia in NHS Lothian.


A sputum or BAL sample for the respiratory pathogen PCR panel (which includes Legionella) is the preferred sample for diagnosis as it includes several differential diagnoses. However, sputum or BAL may not always be available, and therefore urinary antigen testing may be appropriate.

Specimens will only be tested for Legionella urinary antigen if the patient meets at least one of the following criteria:
• Intensive Care patient
• Immuno-compromised/suppressed patient
• CURB65 score ≥3
• Recent foreign travel
• Spa exposure

Please contact virologyadvice@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk for all non-urgent clinical enquiries.