Neisseria meningitidis Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Acceptable specimens:

• minimum of 1 mL whole blood EDTA
• minimum of 1 mL CSF
• minimum of 1 mL serum, or
• minimum of 1 mL plasma

Consult Microbiologist on Call at 770-3757 prior to collection.

Label all specimens: "PCR for N. meningitidis".

Transport specimens ASAP (priority).
Store specimens at 4°C until testing.
On receipt of specimen, contact CLS Molecular Microbiology during regular working hours so that the specimen can be processed.

Blood may be stored for 1 - 7 days at room temperature or at 4°C (EDTA preferred).