HTLV I/II Antibody
Clinical Background:
This test detects antibodies to HTLV types 1 and 2. Because HTLV-I causes a lifelong infection the presence of these antibodies is proof of infection. The absence of HTLV-I antibodies excludes HTLV...
This test detects antibodies to HTLV types 1 and 2. Because HTLV-I causes a lifelong infection the presence of these antibodies is proof of infection. The absence of HTLV-I antibodies excludes HTLV-I infection unless the infection has only just occurred and the test was done before the body has had time to respond to the infection. If a recent infection is suspected the antibody test should be repeated three months later.
Test Details
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Discipline:
Microbiology
Microbiology
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Specimen Container Adult:
Clotted blood - Gold SST
Clotted blood - Gold SST
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Specimen Container Paediatric:
Clotted blood
Clotted blood
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Minimum Volume Adult:
5 ml
5 ml
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Minimum Volume Paediatric:
1 ml
1 ml
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Special Requirement:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
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Sample Stability:
Stable for up to 24 hours
Stable for up to 24 hours
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Transport Requirements:
Standard
Standard
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Add On Test:
Possible up to 5 days
Possible up to 5 days
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Quality Assurance:
External Quality Assurance Scheme
External Quality Assurance Scheme
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Reference Ranges:
None available
None available
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Factors Affecting Result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C