Description
Staphylococcus aureus is a catalase-positive, gram-positive coccus that may form part of the normal flora of the skin and other sites such as the upper respiratory tract. S. aureus causes a wide range of major and minor infections, including wound infections, abscesses, bacteraemia, osteomyelitis, pneumonia and endocarditis. Production of the enzyme coagulase is its main distinctive diagnostic feature. Molecular methods of detection have targeted a range of S. aureus specific genes, this assay uses the Coa gene (Coagulase enzyme) and the Sa442 fragment. The identification of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is based on detection of the mecA gene. The assay includes an internal control PCR
Also known as
S. aureus PCR, Staph aureus PCR
Request a test
To request this test please send sample with a request providing patient ID (three identifiers), specimen information, assay required, relevant clinical details and sender information. Before sending sample please read details on requesting and labelling by clicking on the link. Please also refer to any additional information provided for this test.
Additional information
This assay is performed as part of a multiplex with S. pyogenes.
Sending address
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Level 4, Camelia Botnar Laboratories
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children
Great Ormond Street
London
WC1N 3JH
DX number: DX6640203
DX Exchange: Bloomsbury 91WC
Laboratory service
Microbiology, Virology and Infection Control
Sample requirements
Any sample from a normally sterile site. Respiratory samples. Minimum volume 200 microlitres
Reference range
Not applicable
Turnaround time
24 hours
Disease / group
Bacterial infection
Cost
Upon request
Call in advance?
Not required