Tests are done by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). When indicated, results are confirmed by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFA).  Individual tests are available for $9.00 each.  Serology panels customized to your needs can be arranged. Serologic tests for other infectious agents can be arranged on request. MPV and RPV involve separate assays for the nonstructural protein (NP) and the virion protein (VP) of the virus.  

The serologic panels are based on the prevalence in institutions reported by Jacoby, R.O. and Lindsey, J.R. Risks of infection among laboratory rats and mice at major biomedical research institutions. ILAR Journal 39:266-271, 1998. A - prevalence > 20%; B - prevalence > 10%; C - prevalence > 1%.  Rodents originating from institutional colonies outside North America should also be tested for Hantaan virus.

Specimen Procedures

• Samples should be collected in a microtainer serum separator tube (available from Becton Dickinson). Centrifuge the specimen, with cells below the gel, before sending. Alternatively, put serum in a different sterile, leakproof, unbreakable vial.
• A minimum of 50 microliters of serum is needed. Send sera undiluted.
• Label sample tubes clearly.
• Refrigerate sera until sent; if not sent within 24 hours, freeze.
• Enclose a completed request form with the samples. Mail samples in a small box or padded envelope.
• Ambient temperature is acceptable for shipment. Overnight mail is unnecessary.
• If you are a client of Phoenix Laboratory, you may call them at 800-347-0043 to arrange for pickup of specimens for delivery to SOUND DIAGNOSTICS, INC. at no charge. If you are not a client of Phoenix Laboratory but are within their service area (Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska), call to ask if they can pick up at your location. Put specimens in a zip-lock bag with SOUND DIAGNOSTICS, INC. visible through the bag.
• Specimens from rodent inoculated with human cells or any infectious agents cannot be accepted because of the hazard to human health.
• Results will be mailed. Fax, phone or e-mail transmittal is available upon request.

WARRANTY

SDI WILL PERFORM TESTING SERVICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAMPLE SUBMISSION INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE CLIENT. IF TESTING SERVICES DO NOT CONFORM TO THE SUBMISSION INFORMATION, OR IF YOU, THE CLIENT, ARE UNSATISFIED WITH OUR SERVICES, PLEASE CONTACT SDI WITHIN 30 DAYS AND WE WILL RETEST THE SAMPLES OR REFUND THE TESTING FEE. EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY PROVIDED ABOVE, SDI'S SERVICES ARE PROVIDED TO THE CLIENT "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, AND THE ENTIRE RISK, AS TO THE RESULTS AND PERFORMANCE OF THE SDI SERVICES, IS ASSUMED BY THE CLIENT. SPECIFICALLY, THERE ARE NO OTHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED ABOVE, SDI SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE OR SPECIAL DAMAGES OF CLIENT WHATSOEVER, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION AND THE LIKE ARISING OUT OF THESE SERVICES, EVEN IF CLIENT HAS ADVISED SDI OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.