Microimmunofluorescence (MIF)

Microimmunofluorescence (MIF) serology to test for infection by non-lymphogranuloma venereum (non-LGV) causing Chlamydia trachomatis.

Serum, or paired sera (preferred) – acute and convalescent. Minimum serum sample is 0.5 mL.

Submit serum in a sterile 1.5 - 2 mL microcentrifuge tube.

Store samples in a refrigerator or frozen until shipped for testing. Ship frozen on dry ice, or on wet ice.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Requests to test specifically for non-LGV C. trachomatis are accepted only in special cases such as patients with post-infection sequelae (i.e. Reiter's syndrome), females experiencing infertility, risk of infection resulting from sexual assault, or neonates.

Completed Special Bacteriology requisition form detailing all patient information and relevant clinical information. If possible, attach lab results that have already been done at local or provincial laboratories.

All patient history must be included; Samples without adequate patient history to justify testing are subject to rejection. Routine testing for antibody response to Chlamydia trachomatis for diagnosis of acute genital chlamydial infections is NOT recommended. Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) or culture are recommended. If test results are to be used as part of a litigious process notification prior to shipment is required to implement chain of custody procedures.

Serology is performed using a commercial MIF kit (Focus Diagnostics Inc./Bio Nuclear Diagnostics Inc., Toronto ON) and supplemented by an in-house assay using purified L2 antigen. Please note that s erology is NOT useful for the diagnosis of acute genital Chlamydia infections.

15 calendar days. Please note that during times when large numbers of samples are received or if tests must be repeated, the turnaround time may be longer.

1. Miller, K. E. 2006. Diagnosis and treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Am. Fam. Physician 73:1411-1416.
2. Darville, T. 2005. Chlamydia trachomatis infections in neonates and young children. Semin. Pediatr. Infect. Dis. 16:235-244.