Laboratory Tests Help Confirm Swine Flu Cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is advising doctors and other health care providers to consider testing for Swine influenza in patients who present with flu-like symptoms. If the initial flu test is positive for influenza A, the laboratory performing the initial test will send the sample to their state Public Health Laboratory or the CDC to perform tests that detect the swine-origin H1N1 virus.
BTL provides numerous locations where patients may have their specimens collected. For a current listing of these locations, please call Client Services or the Sales Department at (800) 343-1127.
Repeat Testing
If a test result is inconsistent with the clinical diagnosis of the patient, the physician may have the assay repeated provided there is sufficient specimen remaining. There is no additional charge for this service. Contact Client Services to arrange for repeat testing.
Specimen Retention and Additional Testing
Specimens received by BTL will be retained at 2-8°C for several days after completion of test results. Actual retention times will vary depending upon specimen integrity. Contact Client Services should additional testing be desired on specimens already received in the laboratory. Additional testing will be done provided adequate sample is available and suitable for testing. Appropriate fees will apply.
Tests not Listed in this Directory
Should you require a specific test or a group of tests not listed in our Directory of Services, please contact Client Services or your Account Manager. BTL is committed to providing full service to the medical community and will make every effort to accommodate your needs and requests.
Professional Consultation
Members of our technical staff and our board certified pathologists are available to answer your questions, discuss test results, consult on unusual cases or arrange special studies. Call BTL Client Services to request assistance.
