Microbiology

Notes

• These tests are referred to a Regional Reference Centre
• Teicoplanin levels are non-urgent investigations and efforts should be made to avoid routine testing (and sampling) at weekends.
• If necessary, assays can be arranged for Saturday mornings and most Bank Holidays, but must be received by the Microbiology Department at GRH by 10.00 am. Please telephone the laboratory to inform us that such a sample has been taken, requires testing and to confirm transport arrangements for the sample to the Microbiology Department at GRH
• There is no service available on Sundays

When to test

• Monitoring teicoplanin levels is only necessary for teicoplanin courses that are anticipated to be for longer than 7 days
• The initial pre-dose assay sample should be collected just before the dose given on the 5th day. If this falls on a Sunday, the sample can be taken as planned and should be sent to Pathology Specimen Reception on the Sunday for dispatch for testing on the next working day
• The Consultant Microbiologist will advise on repeat sampling, if indicated

Result interpretation

• Results are reported with a standard interpretative comment that gives the recommended target (normal) levels
• If there is any doubt regarding interpretation, contact the Consultant Microbiologist

Normal levels:

• Pre-dose levels should be greater than 10 mg/L
• Serious infections such as staphylococcal endocarditis or osteomyelitis/prosthetic infection require a pre-dose level between 20-60 mg/L

Sample Requirements

Serum

Samples must NOT be taken via lines

8.5ml of blood taken into a plain gel tube

Storage/transport

Store at fridge temperature

Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature

Required information

Relevant clinical details

Turnaround time

Sent to a Regional Reference Centre

Results usually available within 36 hours

Results will be entered onto the laboratory computer system and reported as soon as practicable – these will be available electronically using "Pathology Enquiry"