Glandular Fever Screen/ Infectious Mononucleosis

Pathology category

Haematology

Code

GF

Referral code

Request form

Test information

If the test is negative and clinical symptoms persist, additional testing using other clinical methods is recommended

Suggest sending a sample for EBV serology to confirm, if there is a strong clinical indication of glandular fever

Approximately 50% of children under 4 years old may test as GF heterophile antibody negative.

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Sample transport should be at 4-25C and should reach the lab ASAP

Please note: the samples must arrive within 24 hours of collection otherwise they will be rejected by the laboratory

Reference range

Diagnostic: will be reported as Negative, Positive or Equivocal (May require further testing)

Tube type

Tube type info

4ml purple top EDTA mimumum 50% full

Special requirements

Minimum volume

1 tube minimum 50% full.

Can be analysed from FBC sample if sufficient volume

Assay frequency

Routine

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

NA

TAT Inpatient

24 hours

TAT GP/Outpatient

24 hours

Referral lab

local