Laboratory Test Information Guide
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The HRLMP is committed to providing high quality laboratory results for our clients.
As one of the largest integrated laboratory medicine programs in Canada we strive to produce the right results the first time on every sample we receive.
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Test Name:
 		Mycoplasma pneumoniae / Chlamydophila pneumoniae PCR
Alternate Name: Atypical pneumonia, Respiratory mycoplasma, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, PCR
Order Entry Module: MIC
LIS Mnemonic: MYCHPN
Requisition Form: Download Requisition Form
Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal swab (NPS)

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)
Collection Information: Specimens should be collected during the acute phase of infection. Use swab provided with McMaster Molecular Media (MMM) for the NPA. Send BAL fluid in sterile container. If a sample has already been received for respiratory virus testing, please contact the Virology laboratory (905-522-1155 Ext. 33708) for the addition of Mycoplasma PCR testing.
Required Information: Clinical information, including symptoms and date of onset.
Turnaround Time:
Routine:
     1 day


Interpretive Comments:
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Results are reported for both Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae.
Additional Information: Mycoplasma infection may be suspected in older children with pneumonia presenting with several days of fever. In a patient with a subacute presentation with persistent cough, fever, chest soreness and radiographic evidence of pneumonia with few clinical signs, in whom other investigations (e.g. NPS for respiratory viruses, blood and sputum for routine culture) are negative, testing for Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae can be considered. When clinically indicated and in consultation with a microbiologist, CSF for mycoplasma detection can be ordered; samples are sent to the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, for testing.
Method of Analysis: Laboratory developed PCR for the detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae.
Test was Last Updated: 1/8/2026
Testing Laboratory: Virology-Serology
Testing Site: SJHH
Referred To: Public Health Lab
Laboratory Processing Instructions: Transport to laboratory as soon as possible at room temperature.