Bordetella pertussis/parapertussis Culture

Bordetella pertussis/parapertussis Culture, also referred to as pertussis/parapertussis culture, is used to identify B. pertussis or B. parapertussis to confirm a clinical diagnosis of pertussis or parapertussis. When performed with other methods, it assists in distinguishing these infections from acute respiratory illnesses that mimic pertussis, including acute bronchitis, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus infection. This culture may also be used, in appropriate settings, to assess response to antibacterial therapy.

Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis are gram-negative Bordetella species that colonize the bronchial epithelium and cause pertussis and parapertussis. Transmission occurs via respiratory droplets, and the infections are highly contagious. The incubation period ranges from several days up to 3 weeks. Illness typically evolves through three phases: an initial catarrhal phase of about 2 weeks marked by coryzal symptoms; a paroxysmal phase lasting 1–2 weeks or longer with intense spasms of cough; and a convalescent phase with gradual improvement. Complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and seizures can occur, with the greatest severity observed in children. Diagnosis can involve microbiologic culture, molecular testing, and serology. Culture remains the reference standard for pertussis/parapertussis because it enables isolation of the organism from clinical material for definitive identification.