Virology, Immunology & Molecular (VIM) Microbiology
As virology continues to move towards molecular diagnostics, we have merged the molecular, immunology and virology sections into a combined Virology, Immunology and Molecular (VIM) Microbiology section. We offer a wide range of diagnostic services, including comprehensive testing for Viral Serology, Bacterial Serology and Parasite Serology and a continuously expanding menu of molecular diagnostics. Additional parasitology and mycology serology testing is typically referred out.
Our volume of testing is considerable since we are the primary testing site for much of the virology in the Province. In 2014 we processed approximately 217,700 specimens.
For exotic or unusual pathogens, specimens are referred to a Canadian wide network of reference centers sponsored by the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML).
Molecular Assays | Recent changes | ||
Respiratory Viruses:Testing is now targeted to patients being admitted to hospital or those associated with outbreaks in long term care or acute care facilities. The type of test used will depend on the time of year the specimen is collected.
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Sexually Transmitted Infections:
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Diarrheal Pathogens:Testing for viruses that cause diarrhea are suggested for, in-patients admitted with diarrhea, patients associated with outbreaks in long-term care or other closed facilities and public health intrest in clusters of cases.
| Changes in Varicella Zoster Virus and Adenovirus Testing 2014/07/14 | ||
Encephalitis/Meningitis:
Patients with suspected arboviral infections such as West Nile Virus should have serology prior to considering molecular testing in the CSF. Arboviral serology is referred to laboratories outside the province. | |||
Blood Borne Pathogens:
| Changes in Hepatitis C Confirmatory Testing 2014/05/13 | Changes in CMV Viral Load Testing & Interpretation Cutoffs 2013/12/09 | Specimen Collection Requirements for Hepatitis B Virus Viral Loads |
Other Testing:
| Changes in Varicella Zoster Virus and Adenovirus Testing 2014/07/14 | ||
Bacterial Pathogens:
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Emerging Pathogens:Consult a Microbiologist or Infectious Disease Specialist
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