| Test Description |
-
Contact: Reference Microbiology (319) 335-4335
-
Test Request Form: CDC Submission Form. Call the lab at 319/335-4335 for form and instructions.
- SHL OpenELIS Code:
|
| Diagnosis of human rabies infection. |
| Panel Components |
|---|
| Multiple tests are necessary to diagnose rabies ante-mortem in humans. |
| Performed |
Method |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
|
Variable methodologies. |
| Fee |
|---|
| No charge |
|
| Recommended sample type from CDC |
| Specimen type and containment is based on the test method(s) recommended by the CDC. |
|
| Contact the lab before sending a specimen. A completed CDC Specimen submission form (CDC 50.34 Human) must be submitted along with the specimen(s). |
| Temperature will be based on the recommended test |
|
| Negative, Positive, Indeterminate |
|
| Consultation with a local or state health official following a potential exposure can help determine the best course of action based on current public health recommendations. Several tests are necessary to diagnose rabies ante-mortem (before death) in humans; no single test is sufficient. Tests are performed on samples of saliva, serum, spinal fluid, and skin biopsies of hair follicles at the nape of the neck. Saliva can be tested by virus isolation or reverse transcription followed by polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Serum and spinal fluid are tested for antibodies to rabies virus. Skin biopsy specimens are examined for rabies antigen in the cutaneous nerves at the base of hair follicles. |
