Test Directory

Leptospira serology and PCR

Containers - Adult

Brown Cap, Gel Clotted	Volume Range 4.9 mls
150ml Sterile Urine Container

Containers - Child

White Cap - Paediatric	Volume Range 1 - 2 mls

Laboratory Site

RIE

51 Little France Crescent
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA

Telephone (Bacteriology): 0131 242 6021 OOH Bleep 2900

Telephone (Virology): Microbiology/Virology Office: 0131 536 3373 (option 1)

RIPL (Rare Imported Pathogens Laboratory

Public Health England
Manor Farm Road
Porton Down
Wiltshire
SP4 0JG

Telephone: 01980 612 348

Transport arrangements

Useful: This test is performed at the Rare and Imported Pathogens laboratory (RIPL). They provide a panel of testing based on geography of travel and clinical symptoms so it is imperative these are provided at the time of requesting, otherwise these samples will not be processed. Unless you have a specific reason for testing for a single agent like Leptospirosis, or are very familiar with current disease prevalence, we suggest that you provide as many clinical and travel details as possible and allow RIPL to select the appropriate panel of tests.

Transport as soon as is practicable.

Sample storage arrangements

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

Special instructions for collection

If the sample is taken within 7 days of symptom onset, Leptospira PCR can be done on the same serology sample.

You can also request a Leptospira PCR on a urine sample in a universal container (not Boric acid) up to 21 days after symptom onset, though it must be accompanied by a serum/clotted blood sample (in a brown tube). EDTA blood (red tube) is not required for Leptospira PCR.

How to request

Via Trak ("Microbiology serology") then specify in clinical details re: Leptospirosis serology and PCR, or by request form. Ensure date of onset of symptoms, travel details and dates and clinical symptoms are supplied in the request.

Availability

Monday - Friday 0900-1700 (RIE). Will be processed and sent to reference lab.

Anticipated turnaround

From receipt in RIPL: PCR - 5 working days. Serology - 7 working days. Microscopic agglutination test - 12 working days.

What happens if the result is positive or abnormal

A report will be issued. The result may be telephoned or e-mailed if clinically appropriate.

General additional information

Note that Leptospirosis testing will always be performed routinely on returning travellers where travel and clinical details compatible with Leptospirosis are provided to RIPL. Therefore, for returning travellers, it is not necessary to submit a Leptospirosis request form in addition to the standard RIPL request form (P1). For further information please refer to the RIPL Manual.