Reliable molecular testing begins before the specimen reaches the analyzer. Collection conditions, timing, and specimen volume are all significant variables in obtaining reliable results.[1]
As influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 activity rises, readiness means looking at the complete pre-analytical path, from the collection device to the transport conditions and the assay instructions at the bench.
The swab: start with the specimen.
Selected UTM-RT® collection-kit configurations include a nylon flocked swab. Confirm the components included in the specific UTM-RT® configuration selected for the workflow.
FLOQSwabs® technology uses perpendicular nylon fibers and has no internal absorbent core. In a respiratory study published by Dailey et. al, flocked swabs collected significantly more respiratory epithelial cells than rayon swabs in both volunteers and symptomatic patients.[2]
Collection quality travels with the specimen all the way to the assay.
Expert perspective
A pediatric critical care perspective on specimen quality.
Drawing on his experience in pediatric critical care, Dr. Shawn Sood discusses the role of specimen quality and collection technique in the pre-analytical phase of pediatric respiratory testing.
Watch Dr. Sood’s Perspective →
External resource notice: This link opens CoScience Hub, a global COPAN Group website. Free registration is required to view the full video. Content on that site may include information not intended for U.S. audiences; refer to U.S. product labeling for U.S. indications and use.
The medium: hold the specimen steady on the way to the bench.
Once collected, the specimen has to reach the laboratory under defined conditions. Store UTM-RT® in its original packaging at 2–25°C before use. Specimens transported for respiratory viral nucleic acid investigations should be processed within 96 hours when stored at 2–25°C.[1]
The 96-hour transport window can help support routine courier schedules and weekend coverage. Because individual assay instructions may require a shorter window, both the UTM-RT® and assay documentation should be reviewed before use.
The formulation includes a phenol red pH indicator that supports visual assessment of the medium’s normal light orange-red appearance. It also includes proteins for virus stabilization, together with antibiotics and antimycotics intended to prevent bacterial and fungal overgrowth during transport.[1]
The assay: broad molecular compatibility.
At the bench, the specimen meets the assay, so collection and transport decisions should support the full testing workflow.
FDA 510(k) K232357 supports the intended use of UTM-RT® for stabilization and transportation of unprocessed upper respiratory clinical specimens suspected of containing respiratory-virus nucleic acids, for use with compatible molecular assays.[3]
Compatibility requirements can vary by assay and workflow. Confirm the applicable assay instructions, specimen type, input volume, processing requirements, and any direct-load or transfer instructions.
Get ready before the peak.
The best time to prepare is before activity accelerates. Check national and regional public-health surveillance, including the CDC respiratory virus data tracker in the United States and the Canadian respiratory virus surveillance report , then confirm the documentation that governs each workflow and secure the configurations your collection sites need. UTM-RT® is made in the USA, supported by continued investment in US manufacturing,[4] and supplied to laboratories across the Americas.
Get your lab prepared for the season.
Request a sample, review the UTM® IFU, or find the ordering path for your market.
Explore UTM-RT® →Sources
UTM-RT® Universal Transport Medium™ is intended for the stabilization and transportation of an unprocessed upper respiratory clinical specimen suspected of containing respiratory viruses’ nucleic acids and is intended for use with compatible molecular assays. Specimens transported for respiratory viral nucleic acid investigations should be processed within 96 hours when stored at 2–25°C. Applicable assay instructions may establish shorter or otherwise different specimen-handling conditions. Consult the UTM-RT® IFU and the assay manufacturer’s instructions for compatibility, collection requirements, and specific target-analyte processing directions. Product availability and configurations may vary.