Legionella Culture (Sputum)

Testing Laboratory

Department

Microbiology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

LEG

Test Code (Numeric Code)

2087

Laboratory Handling

Sample Stability

7 days

Turnaround Time

4 weeks

This test may be vetted by the laboratory. Please include relevant clinical information on the request form to ensure appropriate tests are approved. See the 'Clinical Information' section below for more information on the indications for testing.

Specimen Type

• Bronchial Washing
• Sputum
• Tracheal Aspirate

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Specimen Container

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

1

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

0.5

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Specimen Container

Pre-testing Requirements

Legionella PCR is performed first.

Additional Specimen Information

Legionella culture is only performed on lower respiratory tract samples from patients with a positive Legionella PCR or from those with a positive Legionella urinary antigen.

Test Method

Culture onto BCYE and BCYE-MWY media.

Limitations / Interference

Effective antibiotic therapy may reduce the sensitivity of culture.

Additional Costing Information

For pricing inquiries, please contact us at +64 (09) 276 0167

Please contact one of the Clinical Microbiologists or the Microbiology Registrar (phone numbers available on Paanui - Phone List) if you would like to discuss further.

Contact Information