What are the tests for pertussus?

Culture/PCR: Gold standard for testing of b. Pertussis is culture-100% specific with no false postives. The organism is hard to isolate and positive results are usually not seen until 3-4 days after the culture is taken. Pcr (polymerase chain reaction) provides rapid results. It is a "sensitive" test (less likely to be falsely negative). Serologic tests (elisa) for igg and IgA antibodies are not recommended.