Pathology Handbook

Recent changes for Neisseria meningitidis by PCR (Sendaway Test)
Date	Field	Changed From	Changed To
9th August 2023	Request Group	MDU	NEC (CSF), NEI (EDTA)

Alternative Names:

Meningococcal PCR

Laboratory:

Microbiology

Test Code:

NEC (CSF), NEI (EDTA)

Medicare rebatable:

Specimen Types:

Blood
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Fluid

Container Types:

EDTA 4 mL
CSF Tube 3

Adults Volume or Mass:

10 mL

Collection & Request Instructions:

The doctor MUST notify the DHS of a suspected meningococcal infection before this test will be performed.

Earliest EDTA blood tube required (eg FBE tube). Minimum 200 uLof blood.

At least 200 uL of CSF needed.

Joint fluid may be tested.

Transport Instructions:

Room Temperature

Processing Instructions:

Time critical - do not delay handling !

External Laboratory:

Microbiological Diagnostic Unit

External Transport Instructions:

Send at ambient temperature