THIS TEST CARRIES RESTRICTIVE REQUIREMENTS: CONSULTATION WITH CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY TEAM MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO REQUEST SUBMISSION
16S rRNA gene PCR is a molecular technique used to detect and identify bacteria in clinical or environmental samples by amplifying highly conserved regions of the 16S rRNA gene. It is particularly valuable for identifying fastidious, slow-growing, or culture-negative bacteria in patients already on antibiotic therapy.
This test is intended to be used on clinical specimens from normally sterile sites in which bacterial infection is suspected and only after all other routine methods (culture and/or specific molecular panels) have been negative. Aseptic sample collection processes are critical.
In the majority of cases, it is a requirement that the patient has been pretreated with antibiotics and is not responding to ongoing treatment.
16S rRNA gene PCR testing on clinical samples requires submission of request directly with our Clinical Microbiologist and the provision of information that determines whether testing might be considered. This test should only be requested after all other diagnostic tests have been exhausted.
Microbiology - Virology
Not applicable
THIS TEST CARRIES RESTRICTIVE REQUIREMENTS: CONSULTATION WITH CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY TEAM MUST BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO REQUEST SUBMISSION