3081. PCR. Bordetella: pertussis, parapertussis, bronchiseptica, holmseii (oro/pharyngeal scraping, qualitative determination)
Turnaround time (days): 3
1050 ₴
Description
Pertussis is a highly contagious disease that is transmitted from person to person mainly through coughing or sneezing, or during prolonged stays in closed environments and group settings. Pertussis remains an endemic childhood infection worldwide and tends to exhibit cyclical patterns, with peaks in incidence occurring every three to five years. Since 2022, the number of reported pertussis cases has increased across various European countries – even in those with high vaccination coverage. In Ukraine, atypical forms of the disease are now being observed more frequently, which often complicates timely diagnosis.
The clinical course of the disease is divided into three stages, each with distinct signs:
- Catarrhal stage – runny nose, low-grade fever, mild and infrequent cough;
- Paroxysmal stage – episodes of rapid, repeated coughing, cyanosis, vomiting, and exhaustion;
- Convalescent stage – gradual recovery with a persistent, but less intense, paroxysmal cough.
Laboratory diagnosis of pertussis can be challenging due to the variable sensitivity of different testing methods. According to the 2022 recommendations of the ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control), real-time PCR detection of Bordetella pertussis and related species is the preferred diagnostic method for patients with clinical signs of pertussis. Modern PCR techniques can detect not only B. pertussis, but also other species of the Bordetella genus, such as B. holmesii and B. bronchiseptica. Identifying the specific Bordetella species is useful for differential diagnosis of infections caused by closely related pathogens, to guide effective treatment, and for conducting epidemiological studies.
When and who needs the test?
This test is performed as a screening procedure for:
- children who have been coughing for 7 days or more, or who are suspected of having pertussis based on clinical findings;
- adults with suspected pertussis or pertussis-like illnesses who work in maternity hospitals, children's hospitals, sanatoriums, educational institutions, and schools;
- individuals with epidemiological indications – those who have been in contact with an infected person.
PCR has optimal sensitivity during the first three weeks of coughing, when bacterial DNA is still present in the nasopharynx.
The test is indicated in the following cases:
- suspected pertussis;
- contact with an infected individual;
- differential diagnosis of pertussis versus acute respiratory infections, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, or pneumonia.
After the fourth week of coughing, the amount of detectable DNA decreases significantly, increasing the risk of false-negative results. PCR testing is not recommended after five days of antibiotic use.
Biological material
- Scrapes from various sites depending on the test
Preparing for oropharyngeal swab taking
- Taking the material is carried out on an empty stomach or 2–4 hours after eating.
- Before taking the sample, you should rinse your mouth with drinking water.
In the case of sample collection at a Synevo branch, you will be offered to rinse your mouth with water from a cooler