Test Directory

Giardiasis - stool PCR

Containers - Adult

UniversalStoolContainer20ml.jpg
20ml Universal Stool Container

Laboratory Site

RIE
51 Little France Crescent
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
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

RIE and WGH: Giardia lamblia PCR is performed on ALL stool samples receiving OCP microscopy (see 'stool for OCP' for details), or where >2 weeks diarrhoea/amoebic dystentery/waterborne outbreak or exposure/weight loss/failure to thrive are mentioned in clinical details. Also performed on specific request with appropriate clinical detail.

SJH:  PCR is not routinely performed on samples sent for OCP, but will be performed if relevant clinical details supplied as above, or on specific request.

Transport as soon as is practicable.

Sample storage arrangements

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

Special instructions for collection

Collect 2-3mls of liquid or solid faeces in 20ml Universal stool container. Direct patients to information leaflet 'How should I collect and store a poo (stool) sample?' on NHS.uk website https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/infections/how-should-i-collect-and-store-a-stool-faeces-sample/

How to request

Via Trak (For RIE/WGH select: "Faeces - Micro ADULT WGH/RIE only", for SJH select Faeces- Micro SJH), via request form or via GP comms. Please state request for OCP, symptoms, and travel history and suspected pathogen in the 'clinical details' field.

Availability

0900-1800 (RIE). 0900-1700 (SJH).

Anticipated turnaround

5 - 12 days, depending on clinical details.