Lab Test Details

Bacillus anthracis Identification
Updated	4/24/2023
Search Terms	B. anthracis; anthrax; Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis; B. cereus bv anthracis; Bacillus cereus bv anthracis; B. cereus biovar anthracis
How to Order	On the General Microbiology Test Request Form (OHA0060), in the “Select Agent Testing” section, check the "Bacillus anthracis" box. Notify the OSPHL General Microbiology testing section before sending at 503-693-4100.
Availability	All clients
Performed	Daily, on regular business days. Stat processing is available 24/7 for critical situations with prior approval.
Time to Reporting	Within 4 working days after receipt of specimen
Public Health Data	De-identified data from B. anthracis testing are shared with the Laboratory Response Network (LRN) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as part of surveillance.
CPT Code	87077 – aerobic culture definitive identification 87801 – confirm by amplified probe technique (PCR)

Collection	Actively growing isolated organism, in pure culture, on an agar slant or plate media. In rare circumstances, the OSPHL can accept primary clinical specimens. Consult with the OSPHL if this is needed.
Optimal Volume	N/A
Minimum Volume	N/A
Handling	Seal sample(s) in primary and secondary containers. Store sample(s) at refrigerated temperatures (2-8°C) or room temperatures (20-25°C) pending transport. Do not freeze.
Transport	Package sample(s) to maintain refrigerated or room temperatures during transport. Do not freeze. Follow Department of Transportation shipping requirements.
Rejection Criteria	Specimens are subject to the requirements of the OSPHL Specimen Submission Policy (pdf).
Comments	Original material submitted for testing is retained for 7 calendar days after receipt at the laboratory. Please refer to the ASM Sentinel Lab Guidelines. Samples may be forwarded to the CDC for further characterization if needed. For addition information or assistance, please contact the OSPHL at 503-693-4100.
Method Details
Methodology	LRN reference procedures for biochemical identification and PCR
Performance Specifications	Method Performance Specifications determined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Please contact the CDC for specifications if needed.
Change Log
4/24/2023	Updated Methodology and URL in Comments; Added Public Health Data section
3/15/2021	Corrected typos

Bacillus anthracis Identification