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PCR: Burkholderia mallei/pseudomallei

Laboratory Fee Schedule 

Procedure #:  BTA0026
CPT:  87798

Synonym(s):  Melioidosis or Burkholderia pseudomallei, glanders or Burkholderia mallei Real-Time PCR
Requisition Form G-27A
Test Description Detection of Burkholderia mallei/pseudomallei DNA by Real-Time PCR
Pre-Approval Needed Must notify BioThreat Team prior to sample submission: (512) 689-5537
Supplemental Information Required N/A
Supplemental Form(s) N/A
Performed on Specimens from (sources)

Non-Human (Bacterial), Human, Environmental
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing
  • Culture isolates
  • Whole blood
  • Serum
  • Environmental specimens
    • Paper/letter/envelope
    • Powder
    • Swabs (Dacron, rayon)
Minimum Volume/Size Required Culture isolates 1 plate or slant, Clinical samples 1 mL
Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping Culture isolates ambient, clinical samples & environmental swabs 2-8°C (cold), other environmental samples ambient.
Transport Medium N/A
Specimen Labeling Human
  • At least 2 patient specific identifiers: First and last name as one identifier and a DOB or a unique patient specific identifier (e.g. Medical record number).
  • Specimen identification must match submission form.
Non-Human or Environmental
  • Sample identification must match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements
  • Ship according to Dangerous Good Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49.
  • Handled as infectious agent using universal precautions. 
  • Triple contained in accordance with federal shipping regulations for infectious agents. 
  • See also Emergency Preparedness resources online.

Notify BioThreat Team prior to sample submission: (512) 689-5537
Method Real-Time PCR
Turn-around Time Preliminary result 1 day after receipt, final result 5-21 days
Interferences/Limitations Improper storage or shipping temperatures may limit organism recovery.
Common Causes for Rejection Insufficient quantity, unacceptable specimen type or source, improper shipping conditions, expired media or collection container, discrepancies between specimen label and submission form, and/or incomplete or missing submission form
Additional Information May be paired with Definitive ID - Burkholderia mallei/pseudomallei