Rubella serology

Sample type:

1. Nasopharyngeal swabs

2. Throat swabs

3. Urine samples.

Uses:

Diagnosis of a current or recent Rubella infection in individuals with signs and symptoms of Rubella, including women of child bearing age.

Precaution:

• Contact Precautions.

• Droplet Precautions.

• Airborne Precautions.

• Eye Protection.

Interfering factors:

False positive rubella IgM results can occur following infection with other viruses, namely parvovirus B19, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and measles, which all can produce cross-reactive IgM.

Pre analytical errors:

1. Errors in patient preparation

2. Specimen transportation

3. Specimen collection

Corrective action:

During a rubella test that requires a nose or throat swab, a cotton swab is inserted into both nostrils and the throat. The swab is typically left in place for a few moments and then turned a few times to ensure collection of an adequate sample for testing.

Post analytical errors:

Not mentioning sample type, whether it was a nasal or throat swab or a urine sample in reports.