Rickettsia Elispot

Rickettsia EliSpot
AONM/ArminLabs

"AONM have checklists that help identify the most likely viral or bacterial infections to test for, based on patient symptoms. Please see https://aonm.org/checklists-for-testing/ or contact AONM at 03331 210305 or email info@aonm.org. We also offer different viral and bacterial panels, and are always happy to advise on testing options."

Please note this test requires a blood draw, please organise a phlebotomist for your patient. A return courier fee of £50 is included in this test price

Description:

This test reflects the current Rickettsia activity of chronic and recent Rickettsia infections.

The rickettsiae (Rickettsia) form a kind of bacteria of the family Rickettsiaceae and the tribe Rickettsieae. Rickettsiae are, like chlamydia, obligate intracellular parasite bacteria of small size (300 nm). They live in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. They are mainly found in arthropods, which are their vectors (especially hematophagous insects: ticks, lice and mites) causing various diseases in humans and animals (Rickettsiosis).

The EliSpot is highly sensitive and can detect even one single Rickettsia-reactive T-cell. With detection levels that can be as low as one cell in 100,000, the EliSpot is one of the most sensitive cellular assays available.

Methodology:
Rickettsia EliSpot (T-Cell-Spot / IGRA: Interferon-Gamma-Release Assay)

When should I use:
When a recent or chronic case of Rickettsia infection is suspected.

Other details:
AONM has checklists that help identify the most likely viral or bacterial infections to test for, based on patient symptoms. Please see https://aonm.org/checklists-for-testing/ or contact AONM at 03331 210305 or email info@aonm.org. We also offer different viral and bacterial panels and are always happy to advise on testing options. The EliSpot can be helpful when monitoring therapies.

The EliSpot should usually become negative about 4 to 8 weeks after completion of an effective therapy.

The symptoms of Rickettsia infection can vary depending on the specific species, but commonly include:

• Fever: High fever, often sudden in onset.
• Rash: Rash that may start at the wrists or ankles and spread.
• Headache: Severe headaches are frequent.
• Muscle and Joint Pain: Generalised muscle and joint aches.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
• Abdominal Pain: Crampy abdominal pain may occur.

Rickettsial infections can be severe and require prompt treatment to avoid complications such as peri-/myocarditis, kidney insufficiency, pneumonia, encephalitis, gastrointestinal bleedings, anaemia, hepatitis, myalgia.

Biomarkers

Rickettsia EliSpot

Specification

Specimen Type:

3 x CPDA tube

Vitality of T-cells for LTT: Up to 3 days

Phlebotomy Type:

Blood draw at home or in a clinical setting