Blood for Serological Tests
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
- 3-5 ml of plain blood – Paired (two) serum samples drawn at least a week apart (ideally 10-14 days). For Storage – 4°C with 1 per cent methiolate (thiomersal) – -20°C for long term storage. Serological Tests-Relevance
- A fourfold rise in titer is most reliable indicator of current infection
- Occasionally single high titers may be strongly suggestive. Samples for PCR – 3-5 ml plain blood – Transported at 4°C (on wet ice or cold packs) Add antibiotics to serum, to prevent bacterial contamination, when viral agents are to be detected. Clinical microbiology has an important role in diagnosis of infectious diseases. However, this depends to a great extent on the quality of the specimens and techniques used by the laboratory. It is essential to recognize the potentials and limitations of the microbiology laboratory. It is also important to have close co-operation and frequent consultation among clinicians and microbiologists.