Corneal scrapes microscopy & culture (acanthamoeba)

Microbiology

Notes

• The information given here is intended for use by healthcare professionals. Please see Lab Tests Online-UK for more general advice, links and background.
• Samples are inoculated directly onto appropriate culture media in the clinical area.
  
• Sampling sets including instructions sheet are available from the Pathology departments at CGH and GRH.
  
• Contact the laboratory to ensure samples are processed immediately on receipt.
  
• For Acanthamoeba infections, please inform the laboratory before sending.
  
• For Acanthamoeba infections sampling the contact lens case and fluid may be of value.
  

Sample requirements

Ocular sampling set:

• Slides (with pencil to label).
  
• Virology swab pack.
  
• Chlamydia swab pack.
  
• 5ml Brain - heart infusion broth.
  
• Sampling instructions sheet.
  

Required information

• Corneal ulcer.
  
• Keratitis.
  
• History of immune compromise/immunosuppression treatment.
  
• Suspected microbial aetiology.
  
• Recent, current and intended antibiotics.
  

Storage/transport

• Transport to laboratory immediately. Ensure minimal delay.
  
• Contact lens cases should be stored and transported at room temperature.
  

Turnaround time

Microscopy on day of receipt.
Culture: 5–7 days.
Viral PCR: Next day from time of reciept at reference laboratory.

Acanthamoeba PCR: Two days from time of reciept at reference laboratory.