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Teicoplanin assay

Microbiology

Notes

  • These tests are referred to a Regional Reference Centre
  • Teicoplanin levels are non-urgent investigations and efforts should be made to avoid routine testing (and sampling) at weekends.
  • If necessary, assays can be arranged for Saturday mornings and most Bank Holidays, but must be received by the Microbiology Department at GRH by 10.00 am. Please telephone the laboratory to inform us that such a sample has been taken, requires testing and to confirm transport arrangements for the sample to the Microbiology Department at GRH
  • There is no service available on Sundays

When to test and interpretation of the results 

Only check teicoplanin level IF the treatment is longer than 7 days

Check level prior to the 7th dose being given, including loading doses (if treatment is longer than 7 days)

If the 7th dose falls on a Sunday, the pre-dose sample can be taken as planned and should be sent to the Pathology Specimen reception as usual for referral for testing on the next working day.

Continue to administer teicoplanin whilst awaiting the result of the level unless otherwise indicated.

If initial levels are satisfactory, and teicoplanin course is for longer than 2 weeks, repeat testing weekly unless advised otherwise by Consultant Microbiologist.

For patient with renal impairment (CrCl < 30ml/min), see Teicoplanin: Dose Adjustment for Renal Impairment guideline; and continue to check the teicoplanin pre-dose level on Day 5 as per guideline (Teicoplanin: Dose Adjustment for Renal Impairment).

Assay level interpretation (only pre-dose is required)- aim is to ensure therapeutic levels of teicoplanin are achieved.

Full size

Sample Requirements

Gold top with cap

Serum

Samples must NOT be taken via lines

8.5ml of blood taken into a plain gel tube

Storage/transport

Store at fridge temperature

Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature

Required information

Relevant clinical details

Turnaround time

Sent to a Regional Reference Centre

Results usually available within 36 hours

Results will be entered onto the laboratory computer system and reported as soon as practicable – these will be available electronically using "Pathology Enquiry".

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