Chemical Terrorism Event
Lab test instructions for Chemical Terrorism Event
Diseases
The following clinical representations may be attributed to a chemical threat:
- Nerve function disruptions
- Blistering of skin and mucous membranes
- Respiratory system damage
Agents
- Various industrial chemicals
- natural toxins, nerve agents
- synthetic drugs
- Vesicants
- riot control agents
Test Method
Rapid Toxic Screen (performed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, GA)
Availability
Local law enforcement will be involved in any potential acts of terrorism.
The testing is available to clients with suspected exposure to an unknown toxic chemical(s) as determined and prioritized by the Section of Epidemiology:
- All clients must consult with the Section of Epidemiology for approval before testing.
- If approved by Epidemiology, Contact the Chemistry Emergency Lab Team before submitting samples.
Specimen type
- Urine
- whole blood
Specimen collection instructions
Collection instructions may vary depending on the nature of the event. Ensure all parties listed in the “Availability” section are involved in making specimen collection decisions.
Please follow CDC guidance for Collecting and Labeling Specimens from People with Possible Exposure to Chemical Agents
Urine:
- 40-60 mL required
- Collect in a screw-capped plastic container with a plastic lid
- Freeze immediately to –70C (or use dry ice).
Whole blood:
- 12mL required
- Use three 5- or 7-mL purple-top (EDTA) tubes, and One 3-, 5- or 7-mL plasma tube (EITHER gray-top [glycolytic inhibitor, potassium oxalate] OR green-top [sodium heparin])
- Store samples at 1°C–10°C.
Storage and transport
- Ship urine samples (frozen on dry ice) and blood samples (refrigerated with cold packs) in separate coolers
- Please refer to CDC guidance for submitting specimens
- Contact the Alaska State Public Health Laboratory in Anchorage for complete shipping instructions
- Package, label, and ship as UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B
With approval, ship to: Anchorage Public Health Laboratory, ATNN: Chemistry
Sample referrals may vary according to the specific circumstances of an event, but generally specimens will be delivered to the Alaska State Public Health Laboratory – Anchorage for processing. Specimens from the first 40 victims will be shipped immediately to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia for the Rapid Toxic Screen. Samples from additional victims will be analyzed when the results of the screen are complete.
Results
- Samples are screened for the presence of over 150 toxic chemicals.
- Detected chemicals are identified and quantified.
- Federal and state experts will assist with the interpretation of results.
Normal results are none detected.
Turnaround time
- Partial results will be communicated as tests are performed sequentially at CDC, beginning approximately 36 hours after specimen receipt at the Alaska Public Health Laboratory.
- Full Rapid Toxic Screen results for the first 40 victims will be available approximately 4 days after specimen receipt at the Alaska Public Health Laboratory in Anchorage.
