Psittacosis laboratory tests
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]
Overview
Exposure history is paramout to diagnosis. Complete blood count shows leukopenia, thrombocytopenia and moderately elevated liver enzymes.
Laboratory Findings
Electrolyte and Biomarker Studies
- Leukocytosis
- Rise in ESR
- Rise in CRP
- Liver enzymes elevated
- Hyponatremia may be noticed
- Rise in blood urea nitrogen levels
- Urinalysis may show proteinuria
Culture
Culture of C. psittaci is demanding, requires a level 3 laboratory isolation facility because of the risk of laboratory transmission and is rarely performed.
Serology
Serology is the most widely available method for laboratory diagnosis of C. psittaci infection. Complement fixation, microimmunofluorescence, and EIA the most commonly used techniques.
Nucleic Acid Amplification
PCR techniques have been utilized in outbreaks for several years and can give a rapid, specific diagnosis, which is particularly important in severe infection.