Biochemistry
Haematology and Transfusion
Clinical Microbiology (Including Virology)
Cellular Pathology
General Information
Immunology
Molecular Pathology
Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
SerumLyme Disease
Sample Preparation
Turnaround Time
7-28 DaysSample Stability
If transport is delayed, sample must be refrigerated for up to 48 hoursGeneral Information
Please state clearly the serological tests required and provide relevant clinical information. If unsure, contact Clinical Microbiologist or Virologist for advice.
When adequate information is not provided, serum will be stored and a report requesting more details issued. Serum will be discarded after 2 weeks if this additional information is not received.
Many serological tests require both acute and convalescent sera (10-14 days following onset); the PHE laboratory will not perform assays on acute phase serum until a follow up convalescent sample is provided. Serological assays which require a follow up sample will be stored in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Microbiology laboratory and a report issued requesting a convalescent sample. The serum will be discarded after one month if convalescent serum is not provided.
When patients present late in the clinical course of an infection and only convalescent serum is available, please state this information clearly on the request form to ensure the assay will be performed.
Specimen sent to PHE Porton Down for processing.
Information Sharing: If your sample needs to be referred or a notifiable disease is detected from your sample, your details and sample may be shared with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This is a legal requirement. The UKHSA is sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care.