Blood for serology

Test indications	Investigation of bacterial and viral infections for which serological diagnosis is available. Screening to exclude infection or identify existing immunity from past infection or immunisation.
Test information	For diagnosis of acute infections, paired acute (at onset of symptoms) and convalescent (10-14 days later) sera are preferable to show a rising antibody titre. A single convalescent sample may be sent for retrospective diagnosis. State relevant symptoms, their duration and infection(s) suspected. Date of onset is essential. For screening tests supply previous infection / immunisation history. See virology and microbiological serology for more details and use the A to Z index or search function for individual tests.
Samples required	5 mL clotted blood. Smaller tubes are available for paediatric samples.
Turnaround time*	2-5 working days If combinations of tests are requested necessitating sequential testing on a single sample, reports may not be issued until all tests are completed.
* Quoted turnaround times are the time from receipt of specimen into the laboratory to 90% of reports leaving the laboratory. Stated times are based on normal working hours, Monday to Friday, excluding statutory bank and public holidays.
Enquiries	Microbiology

Test A-Z Index.