Chlamydia pneumoniae – Respiratory PCR

Testing Indications

Health Unit staff should contact the public health laboratory if an outbreak is suspected prior to collection of samples.

Timing of Specimen Collection

Specimens should be collected as soon as possible following onset of symptoms using the Mycoplasma pneumoniae / Chlamydia pneumoniae collection kit.

Storage and Transport

Label the specimen container with the patient’s full name, date of collection and one other unique identifier such as the patient’s date of birth or Health Card Number. Failure to provide this information may result in rejection or testing delay.

Special Instructions

Specimens should be stored at 2-8°C following collection and shipped to PHO laboratory on ice packs.

Test Frequency and Turnaround Time (TAT)

Chlamydia pneumoniae testing is performed twice per week Monday to Friday. 

Turnaround time is up to 5 days from receipt by PHO laboratory.

Chlamydia pneumoniae specimens are tested by a PCR – Polymerase Chain Reaction test that detects Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae. The PCR is >99% specific.

Reporting

Results are reported to the ordering physician or health care provider as indicated on the requisition.