Microimmunofluorescence (MIF)

Microimmunofluorescence (MIF) serology to test for infection by Chlamydophila psittaci.

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.

Patient must be symptomatic, usually immunocompromised, and has contact with an infected or exotic bird. Samples from lymphoma patients are accepted.

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.

Serology is performed using a commercial MIF kit (Focus Diagnostics Inc./Bio Nuclear Diagnostics Inc., Toronto ON). A four-fold or more increase of IgG titre between paired sera or IgM antibodies against C. psittaci detected by MIF to a reciprocal titre of 16 or more to satisfy the CDC confirmed case definition for psittacosis. However, the specificity of C. psittaci serology in the presence of antibodies against C. pneumoniae remains uncertain.

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. Beeckman, DSA and DCG Vanrompay. 2009. Zoonotic Chlamydophila psittaci infections from a clinical perspective. Clin Microbiol Infect 15: 11–17.
2. NASPHV. Compendium of measures to control Chlamydophila psittaci infection among humans (Psittacosis) and pet birds (Avian Chlamydiosis).
3. Reynddsburg, Ohio: National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, 2008.
4. Chanudet, E., et al. 2006. Chlamydia psittaci is variably associated with ocular adnexal MALT lymphoma in different geographical regions. J. Pathol. 209:344-351.