Test directory: B. pertussis/parapertussis DNA

Ordering Code 5607
Test Name B. pertussis/parapertussis DNA
Alias Bordetella pertussis/parapertussis
DNA, Qualitative, Real-Time PCR
Preferred Specimen Nasopharyngeal swab
Preferred Container Viral Transport Medium (M4, VCM, UTM, Eswab)
Other Specimen/Container Nasopharyngeal Aspirate in sterile vial
Polyester, rayon, or nylon swab tips are acceptable
Flexible shafts must be used for proper collection.
Optimum Volume 1 mL
Collection Instructions Nasopharyngeal swab: Half the distance from the nostril to the base of the ear could be used as estimation of the site of collection. Gently insert swab into the nostril. Keep the swab near the septum floor of the nose while gently pushing into the posterior nasopharynx. Rotate swab 2-3 times and hold in place for a few seconds for optimal collection. Collection of both nostrils is recommended but not required

Nasopharyngeal aspirates: Instill 1-1.5 mL of nonbacteriostatic saline (pH 7.0) into one nostril. Flush a plastic catheter or tubing with 2-3 mL of saline. Insert the tubing into the nostril parallel to the palate
Aspirate nasopharyngeal secretions. Repeat this procedure for the other nostril. Combine aspirates into a sterile vial.
Transport Requirements Oahu: Refrigerated
Airline: Frozen
Specimen Stability Nasopharyngeal swab:
Ambient: 7 Days
Refrigerated: 7 Days
Frozen: 30 Days
Nasopharyngeal Aspirate:
Ambient: 2 Days
Refrigerated: 8 Days
Frozen: 30 Days
Rejection Criteria Calcium alginate swab, Cotton swab, Collection tubes with
Amies gel or charcoal containing media, Rigid shaft swabs
Avail. Stat NO
Analytic Time 5 Days
Methodology Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)
Reference Lab  Quest Diagnostics Infectious Disease

Reference range(s)

The reference ranges listed below are valid on this date of May 16, 2025.
Component Age Male Norm Male Critical Low Male Critical High Female Norm Female Critical High Female Critical Low Units Add'l info
Source ALL See report.
B. Pertussis DNA ALL See report.
B. Parapertussis DNA ALL See report.