The most sensitive test method available for confirmation of Bartonella species infections.
Bartonella Digital ePCR™ combines two sample enrichment technologies that are necessary for minimizing the risk of false negative results.
>> Patented BAPGM™ enrichment.
Bartonella species are often able to evade detection by even the most sensitive test methods due to the low abundance of organisms present in the sample. We overcome this testing limitation by enriching samples for one week in a patented liquid growth medium called BAPGM™. This increases the bacterial load in patient samples up to detectable levels for PCR testing.
>> Approximately 20,000 PCR reactions performed on each test sample.
Standard qPCR or conventional PCR techniques often miss DNA for low abundance pathogens due to inhibitory factors, like host DNA, that are also present (like searching for a needle in a haystack). Instead of performing a single PCR reaction on the test sample (aliquot), ddPCR technology partitions the aliquot into ~20,000 droplets and performs a PCR reaction on each droplet. This powerful technology decreases inhibition and increases the sensitivity of PCR detection by as much as 10 times reducing false negative results.
>> Detects a broad range of Bartonella species.
This test panel includes ddPCR on both blood and BAPGM™ enriched samples using genus level primers that are designed to pick up a broad range of Bartonella species. Over 20 species of Bartonella have now been documented in human and animal diseases. This approach ensures that positive cases of infection with less common Bartonella species are not missed.
>> Identifies positive cases missed by IFA serology.
Prior research using BAPGM™ enrichment and PCR confirmation consistently shows that direct detection will often confirm active infection in patients with negative Bartonella IFA serology results. We recommend baseline testing that combines both direct and indirect detection methods for confirmation of Bartonella species infection.
FAQS
What is the recommended use of this test?
For newly infected patients, we recommend testing for both DNA and antibody evidence of Bartonella species infection. For patients who have failed treatment or who have recently undergone aggressive antibiotic therapy, direct detection using this platform may not be as helpful.
Is Triple Draw testing still recommended?
Prior research suggests that serial testing on three samples collected in a one week period can increase the odds of confirming a positive case of Bartonella species infection. Future studies are required to quantify potential gains of serial testing for this more sensitive Bartonella Digital ePCR™ test panel.
Which species are detected?
The Bartonella Digital ePCR™ platform will only confirm whether Bartonella species were detected or not. It will not differentiate between species. It was validated using four of the most common species of Bartonella infection in the United States (B. henselae, B. quintana, B. vinsonii berkhoffii, and B. koehlerae).
Does this test method confirm active infection?
Yes, a positive result indicates an active infection. However, the determination of whether the presence of the organism is causing the patient’s symptoms is up to the clinician.
What is the price?
Bartonella Digital ePCR™ relies on innovative technologies that are currently not covered by insurance companies. As is common for new test methods, it is currently available on a self-pay basis only. Please see our full test menu and pricing here.