Test Directory
Monkeypox Virus PCR
Containers - Adult
Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS)
|
Volume Range
Throat swab |
|
Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS)
|
Volume Range
Vesicle swab of affected area |
Red Cap Tube EDTA KE 2.7ml
|
Volume Range
2.7 mls |
20ml Sterile Universal Container
|
Volume Range
Urine sample |
Containers - Child
|
Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS)
|
Volume Range
Throat swab |
15ml Conical Centrifuge Tube
|
Volume Range
Nasosopharyngeal Secretions taken into a sterile Conical Centrifuge Tube |
|
Molecular Sample Solution (inactivating) (MSS)
|
Volume Range
Vesicle swab of affected area |
|
Pink Capped EDTA Blood
|
Volume Range
1-2 mls |
|
20ml Sterile Universal Container
|
Volume Range
Urine sample |
Laboratory Site
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Transport arrangements
Inter-site van shuttle service, GP van service, External hospital van service, Couriers, Hospital porter collection (refer to collection times posted in wards / departments), Hospital Pneumatic Tube System (PTS)
Hays DX courier service is also available.
Sample storage arrangements
Specimen transport arrangements must be in accordance with current postal and transport regulations. Samples should be transported to the laboratory without delay. If processing is delayed, refrigeration at 2-8 oC is preferable to storage at room temperature for all samples, with the exception of EDTA blood samples. EDTA blood samples must be stored at room temperature (19-23 oC). Patient samples can be transported at ambient temperature.
Special instructions for collection
Please ensure all cases are alerted to virologyadvice@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk as well as sending samples with clear reasons for meeting case definition and contact number to communicate result.
How to request
Use appropriate TRAK or ICE barcode labels which include Patient Identifier Number (CHI), Forename, Surname, Date of Birth, Gender and Location of patient (hospital and ward or primary care centre). Use Virology Request Form only if TRAK or ICE ordering system is unavailable.
NPex ordering is also available for users outside NHS Lothian referring samples for testing.
There is a specific monkey pox request form available. This is only to be used in the event that NPEX is unavailable.
Availability
Weekdays 08.30 - 17.00
Weekends 9.00 - 16.00
Anticipated turnaround
1 day
What happens if the result is positive or abnormal
Positive results are notified to the Duty Virologist to requesting team.
Static information/disclaimer
False negative results may occur for a variety of reasons including: inappropriate timing of sample collection, inappropriate sample type, inappropriate sample storage and presence of virus below the detectable limit of the assay. New and emerging variants may also occur which may not be detected by specific assays. Towards the limit of detection of an assay sampling variation will result in lower reproducibility. Haemolysed or lipaemic samples can also cause interference with assay results.
General additional information
Test available 7 days per week. Results are available when sample is received into the laboratory by 15:00 on the previous day.