Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services Special Bacteriology
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Brief Description
Conventional biochemical’s are innoculated and interpreted to identify the organism. Sensitivities are not performed at the MSPHL.
Laboratory Unit
Microbiology
Methodology
Culture identification using conventional biochemical methods.
Specimen Collection
Kits can be ordered from the MSPHL. Collection kit includes a double wall mailer with a label. Specimen submission forms can be printed from this website.
Storage/Transport
Please transport the cultures in the proper double wall mailer.
Acceptable Specimen
Type(s)
Inoculated culture slants. Special Bacteriology Lab does offer certain non-routine testing of bacteria that is only performed under specific circumstances and with prior approval.
Test Request Form(s)
Possible Results
Identification to the genus and species level.
Reference Range
N/A
Unacceptable Conditions
The following conditions are considered unsatisfactory for testing:
Culture plates
If a specimen is not labeled with the patient name or identifier
If there is no growth on any of the media that is used
If the specimen is mixed
Interfering Substances
N/A
Result Reported
Most cultures can be reported in three days; however, some cultures could take as long as two weeks to report. Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Francisella tularensis could possibly be reported in 24 hours from time received.
Fees
N/A
CPT Codes
N/A
LOINC/SNOMED Codes
N/A
Additional Information
Many additional tests are available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, GA. Authorization must be made through the State Public Health Laboratory prior to submission of specimens. These additional tests include, but are not limited to, Botulism, MRSA, VRSA, etc. More information is available on request.
Assistance in Bacterial Outbreak Situations
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the State Public Health Laboratory are available to assist in bacterial outbreak situations. Additional tests that may not be routinely offered may be made available during special circumstances, relating to public health concerns. This may include gastrointestinal outbreaks/ foodborne outbreaks of more unusual pathogens (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens, etc.) or outbreaks of other pathogens (such as Legionnaire’s Disease, necrotizing Group A Streptococcus or MRSA).