zhanusova 14.10.2024

Testing for the Presence of Prions in Cerebrospinal Fluid Using the RT-QuIC Method

Open Prospective Research Study

Target Group for Testing

This testing is intended for patients suspected of having prion diseases (Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease) for whom a diagnostic lumbar puncture for the examination of 14-3-3 protein and tau is indicated. The study is open to all neurological departments in the Czech Republic. The costs for the examination of samples included in the study are covered by grant funding.

Ordering the Examination and Informed Consent

To inform about your intention to have a patient’s sample tested using RT-QuIC, please email Doc. Karel Holada at karel.holada@lf1.cuni.cz. The results of the examination will be sent back to you via email. The informed consent form for the patient can be downloaded here.

Sample Requirements for RT-QuIC Testing

 

A small aliquot of cerebrospinal fluid (0.5 ml) from a diagnostic lumbar puncture is sufficient for the examination. It is important that the cerebrospinal fluid is not haemolytic (the first collected portion must not be used). The sample can be collected in a plastic tube or a polypropylene microcentrifuge tube (Eppendorf).

Storage of the Sample

It is advisable to keep the sample cool (in a refrigerator) and to avoid temperature fluctuations. If transportation is expected to take more than 48 hours, it is better to freeze the sample and store it at temperatures below −18 °C.

Packaging and Labelling of the Sample

Place the sample in double packaging; the inner bag should contain only the labelled tube, and the outer bag should include a written request with patient information (name, surname, and date of birth), as well as the name and contact details of the attending physician. Label the outer package with: RT-QuIC for Doc. Holada.

Transport of the Sample

Transport the sample in a polystyrene box, using a cooling pack for longer transports. Send the sample via courier to the NRL for Tissue Helminthology, Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, 1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Studničkova 7, Prague 2 (sample reception Monday–Thursday 7:30–15:30; Friday 7:30–15:00).

Alternatively, the sample can be sent to the NRL for Human Prion Diseases, Institute of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Faculty Thomayer Hospital, Vídeňská 800, Prague 4 - Krč. For samples sent to Thomayer Hospital, testing may take longer due to logistical reasons.

When to Expect Results

Samples included in the prospective research study are typically examined once a week. The examination itself takes 48 hours. Results are generally known during the following week after the samples are delivered.

Contacting the Laboratory

doc. Karel Holada, tel. 22496 8503, mail: karel.holada@lf1.cuni.cz
dr. Tibor Moško, tel. 22496 8452, mail: tibor.mosko@lf1.cuni.cz
dr. Soňa Baranová, tel. 22496 8460, mail: sona.galuskova@lf1.cuni.cz
Alena Šteflová Lisáková, tel. 22496 8468, mail: alena.steflova-lisakova@lf1.cuni.cz
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