Paul Bunnell Test
Description:
The Paul Bunnell test is used to screen for Infectious Mononucleosis (IM), which is seen most commonly in adolescents and young adults.
IM is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. This infects B-lymphocytes which subsequently produce a heterophile antibody which is identified through its reaction with the Paul-Bunnell antigen and is detected by a latex agglutination method.
A negative test does not exclude IM. For higher sensitivity please request an EBV IgM assay.
IM is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. This infects B-lymphocytes which subsequently produce a heterophile antibody which is identified through its reaction with the Paul-Bunnell antigen and is detected by a latex agglutination method.
A negative test does not exclude IM. For higher sensitivity please request an EBV IgM assay.
Reference range:
n/a
Synonyms or keywords:
IM; Monospot; Infectious Mononucleosis; Glandular Fever; Mono.
Department:
Location:
Sample type and Volume required:
Whole Blood collected in EDTA bottle. (Purple Top)
1mL
1mL
Turnaround time:
Routine: 1 day;
Urgent: Contact the Laboratory.
Special sample instructions:
Interfering factors:
- Gross Haemolysis;
- Insufficient volume;
- Aged sample;
Please note that the laboratory may be unable to provide results whenever any of these factors interfere with the technical validity of the results; Report will be issued with an appropriate comment.
Storage and transport:
Keep at room temperature;
Do not expose to extreme temperatures;
Sample stability: samples must arrive to the laboratory and be processed within 24h post collection.
Contacts:
Blood Sciences Department-Guy's And St Thomas' Hospital
St Thomas' Hospital
North Wing - 5th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
Contact: 020 7188 9247
Guy's Hospital
Southwark Wing - 4th Floor
Great Maze Pond
London SE1 9RT
Contact: 020 7188 4781
North Wing - 5th Floor
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
Contact: 020 7188 9247
Guy's Hospital
Southwark Wing - 4th Floor
Great Maze Pond
London SE1 9RT
Contact: 020 7188 4781
Haematology Laboratory at Guy's and St Thomas' Clinical Advisory Service
Routine hours: bleep 1358
Paediatrics Routine hours: bleep 1621
Out of hours, weekend and bank holidays: 17:00-9:00 bleep 0294
Paediatrics Routine hours: bleep 1621
Out of hours, weekend and bank holidays: 17:00-9:00 bleep 0294
Last updated: 13/08/2021
