Rickettsia antibodies (typhus spotted fever)
Microbiology
Notes
- This is a group of tests for typhus, scrub typhus and the spotted fevers
- These infections are rare in the United Kingdom and are mainly seen in travellers
- These tests are only performed after discussion with the Consultant Microbiologist
- Rickettsial infections are notifiable diseases. Click for notification form.
Sample requirements
Serum - paired samples not normally required
8.5ml of blood taken into a plain gel tube
Required information
- Discuss with the Consultant Microbiologist
- Relevant clinical details
- Date of onset
- Detailed travel history
Storage/transport
Store at fridge temperature
Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature
Turnaround time
Sent to a National Reference Centre
10 - 14 days