Instructions for using this laboratory test list Please ... · SERPINA 1 purple Do NOT freeze. Must...

Instructions for using this laboratory test list

Please note that use of this manual is intended for local users only

Specimen preparation may be different when sent from a remote location

Tests are arranged alphabetically

Please follow the sample collection, container and volume instructionsFor a more detailed explanation on how to obtain the specimen refer to "Instructions for Sample

Collection" document

If you are unsure which specimen should be collected, phone the relevant laboratory section for

instructions

Unless otherwise stated the specimen requirement is blood, taken into the indicated tube

Unless otherwise stated the volume of specimen required is 4 - 5ml

Some more specialised tests may not published in this document. Please utilise the phone list and

consult a pathologist directly if any test is required that is not available routinely

Electronic version of the Laboratory Test list, contact details and "Instructions for sample collection"

available on:www.health.uct.ac.za/fhs/departments/cls/about/

Please note that this list was last updated in December 2014. Some instructions may have changed

Please contact the laboratory with any specific queries

GPL2952 v5

http://www.health.uct.ac.za/fhs/departments/cls/about/

NHLS GSH & RXH LABORATORY TEST LIST

GSH Speed dial RXH

General results centre 021 404 4129 N/A

Anatomic pathology General: 021 404 3000 General 021 658 5209

Consultants: Consultant:

On call (Histology) 072 620 6916 Dr Pillay 021 658 5236

On call (Cytology) 072 620 6682

Prof Wainwright 021 404 5258 76862

Dr Duffield 021 404 3381 76893

Dr Locketz 021 404 3559 76923

Dr Wu 021 404 4252

Dr Sookhayi 021 404 5346

Dr Learmonth 021 404 3047

Dr Malaka 021 404 3463

Registrars: Registrar:

On call (Histology) 072 620 6537 76937 Room 021 658 5237

On call (Cytology) 072 620 8356 76944

Room 021 404 4234/2387

Chemical Pathology General 021 404 4129 General: 021 658 5224/6


Dr Vreede 021 404 5429 76197 Dr van der Watt 021 658 5220

Dr Omar 021 404 4118 76350

Dr Fortgens (021) 404 6330 77199

Registrars:

On call 021 404 4135 77198

IMD lab:

Chem IMD Molecular 021 404 4449/406 6219

Non-NHLS Laboratories

Blood Bank 021 404 4091

Lipid Lab 021 406 6208/6125

Pharmacology 021 404 5383

Porphyria Lab 021 406 6521

Haematology General: 021 404 4129 General: 021 658 5204


GPL2952 v5

Dr Opie 021 404 3082 Dr Phillips 021 658 5228

Dr Ntobongwana 021 404 4244

Scientist / Molecular

tests

Dr Shires 021 406 6673

Registrars Registrar:

Room/Main Bench 021 404 3364/3092 76193 Room 021 658 5248

Microbiology General: 021 404 4129

Consultants:

Dr Bamford 021 404 5295

Dr Beylis 021 404 6415

Drs Wojno/Naicker 021 404 5282

Registrars

Room 021 404 5302/3 76652

Virology General: 021 404 4129

Consultants:

Dr Korsman 021 4046414 76865

Dr Hardie 021 404 5201 76866

Dr Hsiao 021 404 5200 76867

Registrars:

Room 021 404 5302/3

Tissue Immunology General: 021 404 4129

Lab Manager:

Ms Maart 021 404 4420

HLA Serology Lab. 021 404 4502

HLA Molecular Lab. 021 404 4447

Genetics General: 021 404 4129

Cytogenetics 021 4044 509

Molecular 021 404 4550

Immunology General: 021 404 4129

Dr Watkins 021 404 4537

GPL2952 v5

Preferred test name Other information

GSH

Specimen

container

RXH

Specimen

container

Precautions, comments &

volumes

Send-aways from

peripheral laboratoriesLab

11- deoxycortisol 11DOC yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send frozen on dry iceChem

17- hydroxyprogesterone 17OHP yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and


5-alpha reductase whole gene

screenSRD5A2 purple

Only after confirmation of

positive biochemical test. Must

be arranged with laboratory.

Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.

Send with cold block in

cold box. Must reach lab

within 5 days.

Chem IMD

5-hydroxy-indole acetic acid,

urine5HIAA 24 hour urine 24 hour urine

Collect urine in acid (urine pH <

3)Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

7- dehydrocholesterolSmith-Lemli-Opitz

Syndromepurple

All tests performed on

research budget. Please

arrange by discussion

with Prof Marais for lipid

chemistry including fatty

acids, sterols and

lipoprotein

characterisation

Lipid (Non NHLS)

ABL kinase mutations

Gleevec Resistance

testing,CASEQ; mutation

studies

purple purpleAt least 3X 5ml. Immediately on

ice/ to lab within 24 hrsSend on ice C21Molecular haem

ABO blood grouping/phenotyping purple purple

Send to blood bank at RXH. 2 to

8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least

5ml blood needed

Room temperature -

should reach the lab in

less than 3 days

Haem

Acetylcholine Receptor Ab ACERA yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and


Acid base studies, urinecontact

laboratory

contact

laboratory

Test must be arranged with chem

path registrar. Deliver to lab

immediately on ice.

Chem

Acid phosphatase (total or

prostatic)yellow gel yellow gel

Arrange with lab. Separate

promptly. Add 30ul stabiliser

(0.8M acetic acid) to 1ml serum

within 1hr of collection. Stable at

4°C for 8 days. TAT of 1 month.

Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

GPL2952 v5

ACLA (IgG)

Anti-cardiolipin antibody

IgG; anti-phopspholipid

antibody; CLP; APLA;

ACLA

yellow gel

Lipaemic, haemolysed or

microbially contaminated

samples are unsuitable.

Immuno

ACLA (IgM)

Anti-cardiolipin antibody

IgM; anti-phopspholipid

antibody; CLP; APLA;

ACLA

yellow gel




Immuno

Actinomyces culture Culture for ActinomycesPus from

infected siteMicro

Activated protein C resistance APCR blue

To reach lab within 4hrs or

contact lab if greater delay.

Clinical haematologist

authorisation required

Frozen citrated plasma -

kept on dry iceHaem

Acute flaccid paralysis2x stool 48

hours apart

Requires EPID form. Results

available from NICD when

processed, but this is meant for

surveillance and not diagnostics.

Send on ice. Peripheral

labs to send directly to

NICD if possible

Viro

Adenosine deaminase, CSF ADA CSF CSF Chem

Adenosine deaminase, fluid fluid fluid Chem

Adenovirus 40/41 Rapid test,

stoolstool Done with rotavirus

Send at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Adrenocorticotrophic hormone ACTH purple purple Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Alanine transaminase ALT yellow gel green Chem

Albumin yellow gel green Chem

Albumin, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem

Albumin, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Albumin, urine (Microalbumin)random or

timed urine

random or

timed urineChem

Aldosterone yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and


Alkaline phosphatase ALP yellow gel green Chem

Alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes ALISO yellow gel greenSeparate immediately and send

on dry ice.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Allergy Food Screening test - FX5

If positive, individual

allergens will be tested -

Egg white, cows milk, fish,

peanut, soybean,and wheat

yellow gel




Immuno

GPL2952 v5

Allergy Inhalant Screening test -

Phadiatop

If positive, individual

allergens will be tested -

Cat and dog dander, house

dust mite, grass pollen mix

and mould mix.

yellow gel




Immuno

Alpha feto protein AFP yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Alpha-1 antitrypsin A1AT yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum

at RTChem

Alpha-1 antitrypsin clearance

timed stool

collection into

preweighed

container

timed stool

collection into

preweighed

container

Minimum 5ml stool. Record

weight of stool collection and

empty container on form. Yellow

gel top blood sample

simultaneously required.

Minimum 5ml stool.

Record weight of stool

collection and empty

container on form.

Yellow gel top blood

sample simultaneously

required.

Chem

Alpha-1 antitrypsin point mutation

analysisSERPINA 1 purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Aluminium

trace metal

(royal blue)

tube

trace metal

(royal blue)

tube

Discuss with chemical pathology

registrar prior to collectionNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Aluminium, urine random urine random urineDiscuss with chemical pathology

registrar prior to collectionNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Amikacin yellow gel greenGSH specimens to be sent

directly to Pharmacology

For GSH or UCTPAH

patients only. Not offered

here for any other

patients.

Chem

Amino Acids, serum or plasma

(quantitative)

yellow gel or

greengreen

Minimum 1ml. Deliver to lab

immediately. If delayed, separate

and send frozen on dry ice.

Minimum 1ml. Separate

serum and send frozen

on dry ice.

Chem

Amino Acids, urine random urine random urine

Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab

immediately. If delayed, send on

ice or frozen on dry ice.

Minimum 5ml. Send

frozen on dry ice.Chem

Ammonia, serum NH3 purple green

Extremely unstable. Deliver to lab

immediately (within 15 min) on

ice.

Chem

GPL2952 v5

Amoebic IFAT (Entamoeba

histolytica)Amoebic serology yellow gel

Usually batched. Run weekly.

(Test performed at TBH

Immunology)

Micro

AMP Deaminase point mutation

analysisAMPD1 purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Amylase, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Amylase, serum Please request lipase Chem

Amylase, urine Please request lipase Chem

ANA (EliA CTD Screen)

Anti-nuclear antibodies;

Anti-nuclear factor. NB-

screen does include anti-

dsDNA.

yellow gel




Immuno

ANCAAnti-neutrophil cytoplasmic

antibody, MPOs & PR3syellow gel




Immuno

Androstenedione yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Anti - dsDNAAnti-double stranded DNA

antibodyyellow gel




Immuno

Anti-CCP Ab

Anti- cyclic citrullinated

peptide antibody. Part of

2010 ACR/EULAR

rheumatoid arthritis

classification criteria.

yellow gel




Immuno

AntiDNAse BStreptococcal serology

(AntiDNAse B)yellow gel

Daily batches during the day-Mon-

Friday. Sat-Sun one batch in the

morning. (Test performed at TBH

Immunology)

Micro

Anti-Factor Xa Enoxaparin monitoring blue blue

Must reach lab within 30 mins of

sampling. Performed daily on

weekdays only (unless arranged

with laboratory in advance). At

least 5ml

Spin sample and freeze

plasma within 60 minutes

of sampling. Transport to

reference laboratory on

dry ice.

Haem - RXH

GPL2952 v5

Anti-Gliadin IgA antibodiesAnti-Gliadin (deamidated)

IgA antibodiesyellow gel

N.B. Patient must include gluten

in diet to avoid false negative

results. Lipaemic, haemolysed or



Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

Anti-Gliadin IgG antibodiesAnti-Gliadin (deamidated)

IgG antibodiesyellow gel



results. Lipaemic, haemolysed or



Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

Anti-IgE receptor Ab yellow gel

Samples batched and sent

overseas for testing

approximately every 3 months.

Immuno

Anti-parietal cell antibody Parietal cell antibody yellow gel Immuno

Anti-phopspholipid antibody

Test for the following: Anti-

cardiolipin antibody IgG and

IgM. Anti-B2-Glycoprotein

IgG and IgM.

yellow gel




Immuno

Anti-thrombin III AT3 blue blue

To reach lab within 4hrs or

contact lab if delay. Clinical

haematologist authorisation

required


kept on dry iceHaem

Apolipoprotein B gene Apo B binding defective purple

2 x 5mL EDTA; arrange with lipid

lab beforehand. Informed

consent required






acids, sterols and

lipoprotein

characterisation

Lipid (Non NHLS)

GPL2952 v5

Apolipoprotein E gene Apo E purple 2 X 5mL EDTA; do NOT freeze.

Must reach lab within 5 days.






acids, sterols and

lipoprotein

characterisation

Lipid (Non NHLS)

Apoprotein A Apo A yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Apoprotein B Apo B yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Aristaless-related homeobox

gene (X-linked mental retardation)ARXdup24

purple or

amniotic fluid

For all tests

please use the

NHLS Genetic

and Metabolic

request form,

and provide

information

regarding the

relevant family

history and

any previous

genetic testing

2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).

To be transported cooled

but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the

laboratory within 3 days.

Genetics (molec)

Arsenic yellow gel yellow gel

No seafood 72 hours before

blood test. Keep at room

temperature. Arrange with lab

beforehand.


Arsenic, hair hair plus roots hair plus roots

No seafood 72 hours before

blood test. At least 100mg hair

plus roots - mark root end with a

piece of cotton. Arrange with lab

beforehand.


Arsenic, nails nails nails

No seafood 72 hours before test.

At least 100mg nails. Arrange

with lab beforehand.


GPL2952 v5

Arsenic, urine random urine random urine

No seafood 72 hours before test.

Requires 25ml urine. Keep at

room temperature. Arrange with

lab beforehand.


Aryl sulphatase A, leukocyte green green

Requires control sample. Arrange

with lab beforehand. NB!! Do

NOT centrifuge.


Aryl sulphatase A, plasma green greenRequires control sample. Arrange

beforehand. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

ASOTStreptococcal serology

(ASOT)yellow gel

Daily batches during the day-Mon-

Friday. Sat-Sun one batch in the

morning. (Test performed at TBH

Immunology)

Micro

Aspartate transaminae AST yellow gel green Chem

Aspergillus precipitins Aspergillus serology yellow gel

Usually batched, but urgent tests

can be performed by special

arrangement. (Test performed at

GSH Allergology)

Micro

Aspirate culture

Fluid culture; Sterile fluid

culture; Joint, pleural,

ascitic, pericardial or

peritoneal fluid culture

Sterile screw-

top tube or

sealed syringe.

Purple (if cell

count required)

Fluid/aspirate can be submitted

on a sterile swab but this is not

ideal. Specimens from existing

drain sites will not be accepted

for culture. Specimens must be

collected by direct aspiration or at

the time of insertion of the drain.

If cell count required please

submit a purple-top tube with this

requested (will be performed by

Haematology).

Micro

GPL2952 v5

Aspirate microscopy

Fluid microscopy;

Microscopy (fluid); Joint,

pleural, ascitic, pericardial

or peritoneal fluid

microscopy

Sterile screw-

top tube or

sealed syringe.

Purple (if cell

count required)

Fluid/aspirate can be submitted

on a sterile swab but this is not

ideal. Specimens from existing

drain sites will not be accepted

for culture. Specimens must be

collected by direct aspiration or at

the time of insertion of the drain.

If cell count required please

submit a purple-top tube with this

requested (will be performed by

Haematology).

Micro

B2-Glycoprotein IgGAnti-B2-Glycoprotein IgG.

Anti-phopspholipid antibodyyellow gel




Immuno

B2-Glycoprotein IgMAnti-B2-Glycoprotein IgM.

Anti-phopspholipid antibodyyellow gel




Immuno

Bardet-Biedl syndrome

(BBS1and 10)

purple or

amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).


but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

BARTH syndrome whole gene

screenTAZ1 gene purple

Only after confirmation of

positive biochemical test. Must

be arranged with laboratory.


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Bartonella antibodies Bartonella serology

Test not recommended by NICD

as results are not interpretable in

SA context

Micro

Bartonella culture and PCRinvestigation for culture-

negative endocarditis

purple EDTA

tubes x 2

Research test performed at

NICD. Clinician must complete

special request form, available at

reception

Micro

BCR/ABL p190Qualitative PCR for BCR-

ABL - ALLpurple purple

At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on


BCR/ABL p210Qualitative PCR for BCR-

ABL - CMLpurple purple


ice/ to lab within 24 hrs on iceSend on ice C21Molecular haem

GPL2952 v5

BCR/ABL quantificationQuantitative PCR for BCR-

ABL (p210); QRPCRpurple purple



Bence Jones Protein, urinetimed urine

collection

Collect urine in Bence Jones

Protein preservative

Collect urine in Bence

Jones Protein

preservative

Chem

Beta-2 microglobulin Microglobulin, beta-2 yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Beta-2 transferrinCSF electrophoresis; CSF

rule out test plain tube plain tube Plain tube Chem

Beta-D-glucan Fungitell yellow gelSent to NHLS Johannesburg -

batched three times a week

Store and transport at 2-

8° C Micro

Beta-ENaC point mutation

analysis or exon 13 sequencing

SCNN1B/ENAC / Liddles

mutation / R563Q mutationpurple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Beta-human chorionic

gonadotrophinyellow gel yellow gel

For transport <72hrs

separate serum and send

on ice. If >72hrs separate


on dry ice

Chem

Bilharzia Urine screw-top tube Request for bilharzia specifically

as this test is not routinely done.

Bilharzia IFATBilharzia serology;

Schistosomal serologyyellow gel

Usually batched. Performed

weekly.(Test performed at TBH

Immunology)

Micro

Bilirubin, conjugated yellow gel green Chem

Bilirubin, total yellow gel green Chem

Bilirubin, total, fluid plain tube plain tubeSample should be protected from

lightChem

Bilirubin, urine (qualitative dipstix) random urine random urine

Protect from light: sample must

be wrapped in tin foil or black

paper. Deliver to lab within 4

hours.

Chem

Biotinidase enzyme activity yellow gelArrange with lab in advance.

Deliver to lab immediately.Chem IMD

Biotinidase whole gene screen purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

BK virus PCR, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

BK virus PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

GPL2952 v5

Bleeding time

performed

directly on

patient

performed

directly on

patient.

Please book this procedure by

contacting laboratory.N/A Haem

Blood culture Culture (blood)Blood culture

bottle

Ideally two sets of of blood

cultures should be taken from

separate venipuncture sites,

using aseptic technique. Volume

of blood should be the maximum

amount indicated on the bottle-

10ml for adult bottle, 4ml for

paediatric bottles. DO NOT

STICK LABEL UNDERNEATH

BOTTOM of BOTTLE OR OVER

BOTTLE BAR CODES.

Micro

Blood Group/Red cell Antibody

identificationRed cell antibodies purple purple

Send to blood bank at RXH. 2 to

8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least

5ml blood needed

Room temperature -


less than 3 days

Haem

Blood Grouping (ABO & Rh) for

transplantation casesgold - ACD

2ml purple /

0.5ml pink

microtainer/

yellow gel

Blood grouping is only done for

transplantation cases.Tissue Immuno

Bone marrow biopsy Aspirate and trephine Test must be booked in advance

Separate aspirate slides

from trephine biopsy

when transporting

Haem

Bordetella pertussis PCR Whooping cough PCRSterile screw-

top tube

Sputum, tracheal aspirate,

nasopharyngeal aspiratesMicro

Brucella ELISA Brucella serology yellow gel

Usually batched. Done weekly.

(Test performed at TBH

Immunology)

Micro

C1-esterase inhibitor

concentrationyellow gel

Sample sent to Tshwane

Immunology LaboratoryImmuno

C3 Complement yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

C4 Complement yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

CA 125 yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

CA 15-3 yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

GPL2952 v5

CA 19-9 yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Caeruloplasmin yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Calcitonin yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Calcium, ionised

capped

heparinised

syringe, no air

bubble

capped

heparinised

syringe, no air

bubble

Deliver on ice within 30 minutes.

RXH: arrange with lab

beforehand.

Chem

Calcium, total yellow gel green Chem

Calcium, urinerandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urineCollect urine in acid (urine pH <3) Chem

Calculus analysis Stone analysisclinical

specimen

clinical

specimenChem

Carboxyhaemoglobin green green

NB!! Completely filled tube (5ml).

No air. Arrange with chemical

pathology registrar. Deliver to lab

immediately on ice


Carcinoembryonic antigen CEA yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Carnitine profilegreen or yellow

gel

green or

yellow gel

Arrange with chemical pathology

registrar. Deliver to lab

immediately

Arrange with chem path

registrar (RxH). Deliver to

lab immediately

Chem

CD34 CD34 collection; CD34

stem cells

purple /

apheresis bag

collection

Room temperature -


less than 1 day

Haem

CD4 PLG CD4; CD4 for ARV purple Reach lab in <48 hours Haem

CD64 CD64 PMN; marker for

sepsispurple

Room temperature -


less than 1 day

Haem

Cell count, ascitic purple purple <24 hours old Haem

Cell count, CSFSterile screw-

top tube

Submit in sterile screw-topped

tube. DO NOT SUBMIT IN CLOT-

ACTIVATING TUBES OR TUBES

WITH ANY OTHER ADDITIVES.

Micro

Cell count, CSF sterile tube sterile tube <1 hour old (optimal) Haem

Cell count, pleural purple purple <24 hours old Haem

GPL2952 v5

Centromere Ab yellow gel




Immuno

Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis

genetic analysisCTX; CYP27A1 purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

CF (Cystic fibrosis) genetic

analysis

Delta F508; 3120+1 G-A;

CF 30 gene screen purple

Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

CFTR whole gene screen CF purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Chimerism analysisgenotyping, Bone marrow

engraftment, STRpurple purple

1X 5ml peripheral blood. To

reach lab within 3 daysSend whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem

Chlamydia antibody testingChlamydia pneumoniae, C.

psittaci and C. trachomatisYellow gel

Not available (testing at STIRC,

NICD is for surveillance or

research purposes only)

Micro

Chlamydia PCR

Pus swab or

tissue from

genital site,

urine

Not routinely required if

syndromic management utilised.

Test performed at STIRC, NICD,

Jhb by special arrangement

Micro

Chloride yellow gel green Chem

Chloride, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem

Chloride, stool watery stool watery stool Chem

Chloride, urine random urine random urine Chem

Cholera Culture for Vibrio choleraestool or rectal

swab

Please indicate this request on

the form as this is NOT part of

the routine culture for stool.

Must be transported in

Cary-Blair media and

specimens must be

refrigerated for transport

Micro

Cholesterol, total yellow gel green Chem

Cholinesterase Pseudocholinesterase yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and


Chromogranin A CGA yellow gel yellow gelRest for 30min pre-test. Deliver

to lab on ice. Arrange with lab.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

GPL2952 v5

Chromosome analysis

(constitutional disorders)

Karyotype (constitutional

disorders)

green tube or

green neonatal

tube (heparin);

amniotic fluid:

sterile

containers

supplied by lab

green tube or

green

neonatal tube

(heparin)

CVS and Skin to be sent in

transport medium or sterile

saline. Please alert lab in

advance for CVS and skin

samples. Do NOT freeze

samples and transport

immediately / urgently to the lab.

Store between 2 to 8°C.

DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)

Chylomicrons, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Citrate, urinerandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urine


3).

Collect urine in acid

(urine pH < 3).Chem

Citrulline yellow gel Chem IMD

Clostridium difficile PCR

Pseudomembranous colitis/

C. difficile toxin/ C. difficile

test/ GenXpert C.diff

Watery stool

(rejected if

formed stool is

received)

Only from inpatients with

diarrhoea starting >72 hours after

admission. Electronic

Gatekeeping limits testing to one

test in 2 month period.

Stools can be

transported at room

temperature for up to 24

hours and can be stored

at 2 °C - 8 °C for up to 5

days.

Micro

CMV IgG Cytomegalovirus IgG yellow gel

Please send a full tube for viral

serology. In case of TORCH

screen, please consult a

virologist for appropriate test, or

specify viruses to be tested.

Viro

CMV IgM Cytomegalovirus IgM yellow gel






Viro

CMV PCR, aspirate Cytomegalovirus PCR aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

CMV PCR, biopsy material Cytomegalovirus PCR biopsy in salineNever in formalin for virological

testing


not freezeViro

CMV PCR, CSF Cytomegalovirus PCR CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

CMV PCR, urine Cytomegalovirus PCR urineSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

CMV viral load, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

GPL2952 v5

CMV viral load, CSF CSF Arrange with pathologistSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

CO2 total Bicarbonate yellow gel green Chem

Cold agglutinin titre Cold Agglutinin screen purple purple

Arrange with lab in advance.

Blood to be taken and kept at 37

degrees celcius

Must be performed on

siteHaem

Complement, TotalTotal haemolytic

complementyellow gel

Only submit clotted sample, as

Plasma samples CANNOT be

used. Deliver clotted blood

sample to lab on ice (up to 4

hours). If > 4 hours, serum

should be submitted frozen at -

20oC. Lipaemic, haemolysed or


samples are unsuitable as

incomplete lysis may occur.

Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used. Deliver clotted

blood sample to lab on

ice (up to 4 hours). If > 4

hours, serum should be

submitted frozen at -

20oC. Lipaemic,

haemolysed or


samples are unsuitable

as incomplete lysis may

occur.

Immuno

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

(21-hydroxylase) (CYP21A2)

whole gene screen

CAH; CY21A2 purple purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Copper Cu yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab on ice. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Copper, liver Wilson's disease liver biopsyNo additive. Deliver to lab at

room temperature in foil

Discuss with chemical

pathologistChem IMD

Copper, urinetimed urine (2

hours)

timed urine (2

hours)

Do not collect in a glass or metal

container. Deliver to lab on ice.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Corneal scrapings

2 slides labelled

on frosted

edge, 1 BHI

plate and broth

Kits available in C18 Micro

Cortisol yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Cortisol, saliva salivette salivette

Saliva to be collected in a

salivette (obtainable from lab)

only.

Chem

GPL2952 v5

Cortisol, urine 24 hour urine 24 hour urine Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Coxiella IFAT Q Fever serology yellow gel


weekly. (Test performed at TBH

Immunology)

Micro

Coxsackie B antibody titre yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

CPEO (Chronic progressive

external ophthalmaplegia)mtDNA deletions

urine (min

10ml) or

muscle biopsy

preferred in

addition to

EDTA blood

Muscle preferred Frozen (Deliver

to lab immediately / on dry ice);

EDTA blood - only in patients

under 20 years of age. Do NOT

freeze. Must reach lab within 3

days.

Send muscle on dry ice;

Send urine and blood

with cold block in cold

box. Must reach lab

within 5 days.

Chem IMD

C-peptide yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

CPT2 (Carnitine

palmitoyltransferase II) whole

gene screen

CPTase purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

C-reactive protein CRP yellow gel green Chem

Creatine kinase CK yellow gel green Chem

Creatine kinase MB CKMB green greenDeliver to laboratory by hand on

iceNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Creatinine yellow gel green Chem

Creatinine clearance24 hour urine

and yellow gel

24 hour urine

and green

Submit blood sample taken within

collection periodChem

Creatinine, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Creatinine, urinerandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urineChem

Crigler-Najjar (UGT1A whole

gene screen)

Hyperbilirubinemia / Gilbert

syndromepurple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Cryptococcus antigen detection,

blood

CLAT; Cryptococcal latex

agglutination testyellow gel Micro

Cryptococcus antigen detection,

CSF

CLAT; Cryptococcal latex

agglutination test

Sterile screw-

top tube Micro

Crystals Urate crystals joint fluid Micro

GPL2952 v5

CSF cultureCerebrospinal fluid culture;

Culture (CSF)

Sterile screw-

top tube

Routine culture for 3 days is

performed on all samples. This

will detect bacterial and most

cryptococcal infections. Extended

culture for up to 6 weeks is

performed on request where a

low cryptococcal burden is

expected: in HIV +ve patients

with suspected recurrent

cryptococcal disease and in HIV-

ve patients who are cryptococcal

antigen positive, but culture

negative after 2-3 days

incubation. TB culture will be

performed on request, provided

cell count and/or history

supports request.

Transport at room

temperature as sending

on ice may affect the

culture of some

fastidious organisms

Micro

CSF microscopy

Cerebrospinal fluid

microscopy; Microscopy

(CSF)

Sterile screw-

top tube

A Gram stain is performed on all

CSFs. India Ink microscopy for

cryptococcus is no longer

performed as cryptococcal

antigen detection is more

sensitive. Cryptococcal antigen

detection is performed for all

HIV+ patients (if this information

is provided), otherwise only if

requested. TB microscopy is no

longer performed as GeneXpert

MTB/Rif is more sensitive.

GeneXpert MTB/Rif will be

performed on request, provided

cell count and/or history

supports request.

Micro

Cryoglobulins yellow gel yellow gelCollect and deliver specimen at

37°C.Chem

Cysticercus ELISA

Cysticercus

serology/(Neuro)cysticercos

is/Antibodies to Taenia

solium

yellow gel



Immunology)

Micro

GPL2952 v5

Cyclosporine purple purpleGSH specimens to be sent


For GSH or UCTPAH


here for any other

patients.

Chem

Cystine, leukocytes green greenMinimum 4ml required. Do not

freeze

Green, minimum 4ml. Do

not freezeChem

Cystinosis common mutation

(c.971-12G>A)CTNS purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Cytogenetics/chromosome

analysis (haematological cancer)Karyotyping

green, bone

marrow in

heparin tube

green, bone

marrow in

heparin tube

Pre book and to be delivered

<1hr.



Cytomegalovirus pp65

antigenaemia assayPP65 N/A N/A

No longer available. Request

CMV viral load.Not available Viro

Cytospin, ascitic fluid purple or sterilepurple or

sterile

Sample as fresh as possible.

>2ml needed<24 hours old Haem

Cytospin, CSF CSF Cytospin purple or sterilepurple or

sterile


>1ml needed<1 hour old Haem

Cytospin, pleural fluid purple or sterilepurple or

sterile


>2ml needed<24 hours old Haem

D-dimers blue blue To be delivered within 6hrsTo be delivered within

6hrsHaem

Dentatorubral palidolyusian

atrophy DRPLA

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Cystine, urine

timed urine

collection or

random urine

timed urine

collection or

random urine

Refrigerate specimen during

collection. Deliver to lab on ice.

Send urine frozen on dry

iceChem

Deoxypyridinoline, urine random urine random urine Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Differential count White Cell differential purple purpleDeliver immediately to the

laboratory. Do NOT refrigerate.

Sample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

Direct Coombs test Coombs, DAGT purple purple <24 hours old Haem

DNA extraction purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

GPL2952 v5

Duchenne/Becker Muscular

Dystrophy (DMD)

Testing for exonic

deletions/duplications

(MLPA)

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Duchenne/Becker Muscular

Dystrophy (DMD): microsatellite

linkage analysis

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

EBV EBNA IgG

EBV serology; EBV IgG;

EBV IgM; Epstein Barr

Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG;

EBNA IgG, Monospot

yellow gel

For EBV serology requests, EBV

EBNA IgG will be performed,

followed by reflex testing if

indicated. Please specify if reflex

IgM testing is desired. Please

send a full tube for viral serology.

Viro

EBV MonospotNot available as primary

requestN/A







Viro

EBV PCR Epstein Barr Virus PCR biopsy in salineViral load is performed on blood

and CSF


not freezeViro

EBV VCA IgMNot available as primary

requestN/A







Viro

EBV Viral load, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

EBV Viral load, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Echinococcus ELISA Hydatid serology yellow gelUsually batched(Tuesdays). (Test

performed at TBH Immunology)Micro

GPL2952 v5

DHEAS yellow gel yellow gel





on dry ice

Chem

ENA

Extractable nuclear antigen;

consists of anti-SmD

(Smith) antibody (using the

SmD3 peptide) & anti-

RNP70 (ribonucleoprotein)

antibody. Reference range

changed for SmD: <7 U/ml

= negative; 7-10 U/ml =

equivocal; >10 U/ml =

positive.

yellow gel




Immuno

Enterovirus PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Enterovirus PCR, stool stoolSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Enterovirus PCR, throat throat swabSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Erythrocyte Sedimentation rate ESR, Westergren black or purple purple <12 hours old Haem

Elastase, stoolrandom stool

sample

random stool

sampleMinimum 5ml


pathology registrarChem

Erythropoietin yellow gel yellow gel Not done at GSH/RxH Chem

Factor II blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact

lab if delay.


kept on dry iceHaem

Factor inhibitor assay Inhibitor assay blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact

lab if delay. At least 8ml blood


kept on dry iceHaem

Factor inhibitor screen blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

Factor IX blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

Factor V blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

GPL2952 v5

Factor V Leiden PCR Factor V; FV mutation purple purple1X5ml tube. To reach lab within 3

days.Send whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem

Factor VII blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

Factor VIII blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

Factor X blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

Factor XI blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

Factor XII blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact



kept on dry iceHaem

Factor XIII Urea clot lysis time blue blueFrozen citrated plasma -

kept on dry iceHaem

Fanconi's anaemiaChromosomal breakage

analysisheparin heparin

Fresh sample. At least 8ml blood

needed



Estradiol yellow gel yellow gel





on dry ice

Chem

Fibrinogen blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact

lab if delay.


kept on dry iceHaem

Fibroblasts Tissue culture skin biopsy

Sterile in tissue culture medium

or saline. Do not freeze. Discuss

with chemical pathologist

Chem IMD

FISH (Aneuploidy)

Down Syndrome, Edward &

Patau syndrome, Turner

syndrome, Klinefelter

syndrome

green tube or

green neonatal

tube (heparin);

amniotic fluid:

sterile

containers

supplied by lab

green tube or

green

neonatal tube

(heparin)

Discuss with lab in advance. At

least 4ml amniotic fluid in sterile

tube needed



GPL2952 v5

FISH (haematological cancer)

bone marrow in

heparin tube

(green)/purple

(EDTA)

tube/bone

marrow slides

bone marrow

in heparin

tube

(green)/purple

(EDTA)

tube/bone

marrow slides

Discuss with lab/haematologist in

advance



FISH (microdeletions)

Di George, Prader Willi,

Angelman, Williams

Beuren, Smith-Magenis,

Miller-Dieker, Phelan-

McDermid

green tube or

green neonatal

tube (heparin);

amniotic fluid:

sterile

containers

supplied by lab

green tube or

green

neonatal tube

(heparin)

At least 4ml amniotic fluid

needed in sterile tube



Flow cytometry/

immunophenotyping, bone

marrow or blood

purple purpleMust be booked in advance -

keep sample at room temp

Sample must be < 24

hours old. Transfix may

be used in situation

where a time delay is

inevitable

Haem

FLT3 AL mutationFLT3 TK ; FLT3 D835;

FLT3 ALpurple purple

1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone

marrow aspirate (preferred

sample). To reach lab within 3

days

Send whole blood or BM

at RT C21Molecular haem

FLT3 ITD mutation FLT3 ITD purple purple




days



FLT3 mutations (ITD and AL) FLT3 mutations purple purple




days



GPL2952 v5

FNA Fine needle aspirates

Aspiration of

solid masses

require

smearing and

immediate

fixaion (<5s) on

a slide.

Aspiration of

fluids should be

placed in sterile

empty 50-100

ml containers

with equal

volume 50%

alcohol.

Prior booking required and

should be arranged with lab at

RXH or GSH depending on

location. Arrange with lab staff to

perform smears.

Slides should be clearly

labelled with pencil and

placed in a slide holder.

Please check fluids

aspirated are fixed with

equal volumes of 50-70%

alcohol.

Cytology

Ferritin yellow gel yellow gel Chem

Folate, red cell Red cell folate purple purple

Requires minimum 2x5ml blood.

Must be a separate specimen

from other tests.

Stable for 24hrs at room

temperature. Analysis to

be performed within this

time.

Chem

Folate, serum yellow gel yellow gel Transport at 2-8 °CSeparate serum and


Fragile X syndrome FRAXApurple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Follicle stimulating hormone FSH yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send at RTChem

Free fatty acids FFAyellow gel or

grey or green

yellow gel or

grey or green

2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At

least 10ml blood needed

Discuss with a chemical


Free light chains yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At

least 10ml blood neededNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Free T3 triidothyronine yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At


Separate serum and

send on iceChem

GPL2952 v5

Friedreich’s Ataxia FRDApurple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Frozen sectionsFresh, unfixed,

clearly marked.

Fresh,

unfixed,

clearly

marked.

2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).

Please contact the

laboratory (currently

offered onsite at GSH ,

Red X and 2Mil).

Histology GSH

Free T4thyroxine;

tetraiodothyronineyellow gel

green or

yellow gel

Separate serum and

send on iceChem

FTA, CSF Syphilis serology (FTA)

CSF (serum

FTA has been

replaced by the

TP assay - see

syphilis

serology)

2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). Micro

Full Blood CountFBC; CBC; Complete Blood

Count; Blood countpurple purple

Sample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

Fungal culture Culture (fungal)Sample from

infected siteMicro

Fungal microscopy Microscopy (fungal)Sample from

infected siteMicro

G6PD Screen and Assay

Glucose-6-phosphate

dehydrogenase deficiency

screening

purple purple Fresh sample

Keep sample at 40C and

refer to reference

laboratory within 7 days

of sampling.

Haem - RXH

Fructosamine yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At

least 10ml blood neededNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem

GALT (Galactosemia) whole gene

screen

Galactose-1 phosphate

uridyl transferase deficiencypurple


5 days. Recent blood transfusion

contra-indicates test.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

GPL2952 v5

GALT (Galactosemia) enzyme

activity

Galactose-1 phosphate

uridyl transferase deficiencygreen green

Minimum 4ml. Requires control

sample. Arrange with lab. Do

NOT centrifuge. Recent blood

transfusion contra-indicates test.

Patient to be on galactose

(lactose) containing diet.

Minimum 4ml. Requires

control sample. Arrange

with lab. Do NOT

centrifuge. Recent blood

transfusion contra-

indicates test. Patient to

be on galactose (lactose)

containing diet

Chem

Gamma glutamyl transferase GGT yellow gel green Chem

GBM AbAnti - glomerular basement

membraneyellow gel




Immuno

GeneXpert MTB/Rif TB PCR/ GeneXpert/XpertRespiratory

specimens

Performed routinely on

respiratory samples according to

national guidelines. Selected

extra-pulmonary specimens

(CSF, tissues, FNAs) are tested

on request.

Micro

Gastrin yellow gel yellow gelFresh blood (less than 1 hour

old) required.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Gentamicin yellow gel green2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At

least 10ml blood neededChem

Glucose grey green or grey2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At

least 10ml blood neededChem

Glucose, CSF grey plain tubeRecommended simultaneous

blood glucose measurement.Chem

Glucose, fluid grey plain tube Chem

Glutaric Acidemia Type 1

common mutation (A293T)

Glutaric Aciduria / GA1/

GAT1/GCDH genepurple


5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Glutaric Acidemia Type 1 whole

gene screen

Glutaric Aciduria / GA1/

GAT1/GCDH genepurple


5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Glutathione synthetase whole

gene screenGSS purple


5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Glucose, urine (dipstix) random urine random urineDeliver immediately to lab on ice

within 4 hours.Chem

Glycated haemoglobin HbA1c purple purple Chem

GPL2952 v5

Gradient gel electrophoresis for

VLDL, IDL, LDL

LDL particle size;

dysbetalipoproteinaemia;

Type lll hyperlipidaemia;

lipoprotein X

purple 1 x 5mL EDTA; do NOT freeze.






acids, sterols and

lipoprotein

characterisation

Lipid (Non NHLS)

Glycine, CSFplain tube CSF

and yellow gel

plain tube

CSF and

green

Submit simultaneous yellow gel

or green top blood sample.

Send frozen on dry ice in

plain tubeChem

Haemoglobin Hb; Hemoglobin purple purpleSample must be < 72

hours oldHaem

Haemoglobin A2Thalassaemia

testing/haemoglobin studiespurple purple



Sample must be < 72

hours oldHaem

Haemoglobin

electrophoresis/HPLC

Thalassaemia




Sample must be < 72

hours oldHaem

Haemoglobin FThalassaemia




Sample must be < 72

hours oldHaem

Haemoglobin H inclusion bodies Hb H purple purpleSample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

Hain test TB PCR

Sputum,

tracheal

aspirate and

other

respiratory

samples.

The Hain test is used within the

laboratory to detect rifampicin

and isoniazid resistant MTB. It is

not usually performed directly on

smear positive sputum. Any

requests must be discussed with

micrologist in advance.

Micro

Ham's test see PNH flow see PNH flow Discontinued Haem

Growth hormone GH yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Haptoglobin yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum

at RTChem

Heinz Bodies purple purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At


Sample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

Helicobacter pylori antibodies yellow gel Performed at Tswane laboratory Micro

GPL2952 v5

Heparin Induced

ThrombocytopeniaHIT yellow gel



2 to 8°C (Do not Freeze).

5 ml blood needed. <24

hours old

Haem

Hepatitis A IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Hepatitis A IgM yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Hepatitis B Core antibody (total) yellow gelDetects exposure to the virus /

previous infectionViro

Hepatitis B Core IgM yellow gelDetects acute infection /

reactivationViro

Hepatitis B drug resistance

testing (Lamivudine)yellow / purple

Only performed if Hepatitis B viral

load is detectable


not freezeViro

Hepatitis B e Ab yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Hepatitis B e Ag yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Hepatitis B PCRLiver biopsy in

salineViral load is performed on blood Viro

Hepatitis B s Ab yellow gel Detects immunity Viro

Hepatitis B s Ag yellow gel Detects current infection. Viro

Hepatitis B Viral load yellow / purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Hepatitis C Antibody yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Hepatitis C PCR purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Hepatitis C Viral genotyping purpleOnly performed if Hepatitis C

PCR positive


not freezeViro

Hepatitis C Viral load purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Herpes simplex virus IgG HSV IgG yellow gel






Viro

GPL2952 v5

Herpes simplex virus IgM HSV IgM yellow gel






Viro

Herpes simplex virus PCR,

aspirateHSV PCR aspirate Viro

Herpes simplex virus PCR, biopsy

materialHSV PCR biopsy in saline

Never in formalin for virological

testingViro

Herpes simplex virus PCR, CSF HSV PCR CSF Viro

Herpes simplex virus PCR, swab HSV PCR swab Viro

HHV6 IgG Human Herpes Virus 6 IgG N/ANo longer available. See HHV6

PCR.Viro

HHV6 IgM Human Herpes Virus 6 IgM N/ANo longer available. See HHV6

PCR.Viro

HHV6 PCR, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

HHV6 PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

HHV8 PCR, aspirate aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

HHV8 PCR, biopsy material biopsy in salineNever in formalin for virological

testing


not freezeViro

Histology (routine)

Empty sterile

bottles/buckets

containing

ample amounts

of 10%formalin

Blue / Lilac lid

container in

10 % formalin

Specimens should be

sent in tightly sealed

containers with adequate

amounts of 10% formalin.

Histology GSH

Histoplasma serology yellow gel

All requests should be discussed

in advance with microbiologist. If

approved test may be referred to

private pathology lab.

Micro

GPL2952 v5

Histoplasma urine antigen test

Urine, a tissue

biopsy sample

for culture and

EDTA blood for

staining may

also be sent

Test is currently being validated

and is performed at the Mycology

reference unit NICD free of

charge. A special form giving

essential patient information

must be completed. Forms

available in microbiology

reception.

Send at 2-4°C Micro

HIV 1 Western Blot yellow gel


serology. This will only be done

after consultation with a

virologist, and if indicated by

routine serology.

Only primary tubes will

be tested. Aliquots sent

in secondary tubes will

be rejected.

Viro

HIV 1/2 4th generation ELISA yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.




be rejected.

Viro

HIV 1/2 rapid test (antibody) yellow gel purpleOnly done after hours on

occupational exposure cases




be rejected.

Viro

HIV 2 Western Blot yellow gel Not available Not available Viro

HIV-1 drug resistance testing purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

HIV-1 p24 Antigen yellow gel

Only performed if indicated by

routine serology. Request HIV

ELISA.




be rejected.

Viro

HIV-1 PCR purpleNot performed on persons over

the age of 18 months


not freezeViro

HIV-1 Viral Loadpurple / plasma

separation tube


not freezeViro

HLA – Class I Serological Typing HLA-AB Tissue Typing gold - ACD

Please

contact the

laboratory to

discuss

volume of

blood to be

taken

Mix tube thoroughly to prevent

clotting. Sample not to be more

than 24 hours old on arrival in

lab. At least 10ml sample taken

at GSH

Send whole blood at

Room TemperatureTissue Immuno

GPL2952 v5

HLA antibody screening and

identification

HLA Serum Screening.

HLA Cytotoxic Antibodies

Lymphocytoxic Antibodies

yellow gel Tissue Immuno

HLA Crossmatching – Class I Crossmatch

patient: yellow

gel and golden

(ACD) .

potential donor:

golden (ACD)

Please

contact the

laboratory to

discuss

volume of

blood to be

taken

Mix yellow tubes without gel

thoroughly to prevent clotting.

Sample not to be more than 24

hours old on arrival in lab.

Send whole blood at

Room TemperatureTissue Immuno

HLA Typing – DNA-PCR – High

Resolution per allelepurple

Please

contact the

laboratory to

discuss

volume of

blood to be

taken

If other DNA typing is requested

no further samples are needed.

At least 25ml blood needed (5

tubes)

Tissue Immuno

HLA Typing Class I – DNA-PCR –

Low Resolution per locus

HLA-A or B or Cw DNA

Typing. HLA Class I DNA

typing

purple

Please

contact the

laboratory to

discuss

volume of

blood to be

taken

Mix thoroughly to prevent

clotting. At least 25ml blood

needed (5 tubes)

Tissue Immuno

HLA Typing Class II – DNA-PCR

– Low Resolution per locus

HLA Class II DNA typing.

HLA-DRB1, DQB1 typingpurple

Please

contact the

laboratory to

discuss

volume of

blood to be

taken

If other DNA typing is requested

no further samples are needed.

At least 25ml blood needed (5

tubes)

Tissue Immuno

HLA-B27 or other test for a

specific HLA antigenpurple

Mix tube thoroughly to prevent

clotting. At least 10ml blood

needed (2 tubes)

Tissue Immuno

HDL cholesterol yellow gel yellow gel Chem

Homocysteine purple purple

Recommend fasting and 6h post

methionine load. Deliver to lab on

ice.


HTLV-1 PCR, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

GPL2952 v5

HTLV-1 PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Huntington and Huntington-like

Disease HD and HDL2

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Hyperlipidaemia type 1 gene Lipoprotein lipase purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Hypoxanthine phosphoribose

tranferase whole gene screenHPRT; Lesch-Nyhan purple

Discuss with lab beforehand. Do

not freeze. Must reach lab within

5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Homovanillic acid, urine HVA 24 hour urine

3 spot urines

collected in

tube

containing HCl


3)

Collect urine in acid

(pH<3). The correct ratio

is 10ml urine to 0.25ml

6M HCl.

Chem

IgA yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum

at RTChem

IgG yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum

at RTChem

IgG index, CSFplain tube CSF

and yellow gel

plain tube

CSF and

yellow gel

Submit simultaneous yellow gel

blood sample.Send CSF on ice Chem

IgM yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum

at RTChem

INRProthrombin time; Warfarin

monitoringblue blue To reach lab within 4hrs


kept on dry iceHaem

ImmunofixationSerum protein

immunofixationyellow gel yellow gel

Separate serum and

send on iceChem

Insulin yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and


Insulin - like growth factor 1 IGF 1 yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Isopropanol stability test purple Fresh Haem

JAK2 V617F JAK2 purple purple1X 5ml peripheral blood. To


JC virus PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

GPL2952 v5

Jo Ab Anti Jo antibody yellow gel




Immuno

Iron Fe yellow gel yellow gel Must reach lab within 30 minutes Chem

Ketones (qualitative) yellow gel green Chem

Ketones, acetoacetategrey, green or

yellow gel

grey, green or

yellow gel

NB Arrange with chemical

pathology registrar. Minimum 1ml

blood. Deliver on ice within 30

minutes.


pathology registarChem

Ketones, beta-hydroxybutyrategrey, green or

yellow gel

grey, green or

yellow gel

NB Arrange with chemical

pathology registrar. Minimum 1ml

blood. Deliver on ice within 30

minutes.



Kleihauer Test purple purple Fresh sample. Maternal blood Fresh Haem

KSS (Kearn-Sayers Syndrome) mtDNA deletions

Early morning

urine or muscle

biopsy

preferred in

addition to

EDTA blood

Muscle preferred Frozen (Deliver

to lab immediately / on dry ice);

EDTA blood - only in patients

under 20 years of age. Do NOT

freeze. Must reach lab within 3

days.




box. Must reach lab

within 5 days.

Chem IMD

La Ab & Ro AbAnti-La antibody & Anti-Ro

antibodyyellow gel




Immuno

Ketones, urine (dipstix) random urine random urineDeliver immediately to lab on ice

within 4 hours.Chem

Lactate grey grey

Stable for 24hrs at room

temperature. Analysis to

be performed before this

time.

Chem

Lactate dehydrogenase LDH yellow gel green Chem

Lactate dehydrogenase

isoenzymesLDH isoenzymes yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Lactate dehydrogenase, fluid LDH plain tube plain tube Chem

Lactate, CSF grey grey Deliver on ice.Not offered due to

instabilityChem

Legionella antigen detectionLegionella urinary antigen

testUrine Micro

Legionella IFATLegionella serology/

legionella antibodiesyellow gel



Immunology)

Micro

GPL2952 v5

LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA)Early morning

urine

Early morning urine only. 2 to 8

°C. DO NOT FREEZE. Deliver to

lab immediately.

Chem IMD

LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) skin biopsy2 to 8 °C. DO NOT FREEZE.

Deliver to lab immediately.Chem IMD

LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) muscle biopsy Frozen. Deliver to lab

immediately / on dry iceSend muscle on dry ice Chem IMD

Leptospira ELISA Leptospira serology yellow gelTest performed weekly. (Test


Leukocyte alkaline phosphataseNeutrophil alkaline

phosphatase, NAP; LAPpurple

Must be done

on fresh finger

prick sample -

blood applied

to slide

Arrange with lab in advance.

<30min old specimenN/A Haem

LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic

Neuropathy)purple


5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic

Neuropathy)muscle biopsy

Frozen. Deliver to lab


Lead Pb purple purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Lipase yellow gel yellow gel Chem

Lipid electrophoresis yellow gel yellow gel Fasting blood. Chem

Lipoprotein (a) yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

LKM AbAnti-liver, kidney,

microsomal antibodyyellow gel Immuno

Lupus Anticoagulant

LAC Screen and Confirm;

DRVVT; Dilute Russel's

Viper Venom Time

blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact

lab if delay. 4 full tubes needed


kept on dry iceHaem

Lithium yellow gel yellow gel NB! Lithium-free tube. Chem

Lymphoblasts Lymphs green Do not freeze. Arrange with lab in

advance. At least 10mlChem IMD

Lymphocyte subset analysis

T-cell subsets;

CD3/CD4/CD8/CD45

(CD16,CD56 if indicated)

purple purpleRoom temp. DO NOT FREEZE.

Reach lab within 24 hours.

Sample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

GPL2952 v5

MA Ab Anti-mitochondrial antibody yellow gel Immuno

Luteinizing hormone LH yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Magnesium Mg yellow gel green Chem

Malaria investigationThin and thick film; Malaria

antigen testpurple purple

Sample must be <24

hours oldHaem

McArdle’s disease point mutation

analysis

Glycogen phosphorylase;

PYGMpurple


5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Measles IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Measles IgM Urine no longer required yellow gel

Send with EPID form. See

measles notification. IgM not

available for routine diagnostics -

request PCR.

Peripheral labs to send

directly to NICD if

possible

Viro

Measles notification Urine no longer required yellow gel

Requires EPID form. Results

available from NICD when

processed, but this is meant for

surveillance and not diagnostics.

Peripheral labs to send

directly to NICD if

possible

Viro

Measles PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Measles PCR, throat throat swabSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Measles PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Medium chain Acyl Coenzyme A

dehydrogenase point mutation

analysis

MCAD; ACADM purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

MELAS purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

MELAS

Early morning

urine or muscle

biopsy

preferred in

addition to

EDTA blood

Muscle Frozen (Deliver to lab

immediately / on dry ice); Urine

(early morning sample only) and

EDTA blood Do NOT freeze.





box. Must reach lab

within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Magnesium, urine

timed urine

collection or

random urine

random urineCollect urine in acid (urine pH <

3)Chem

GPL2952 v5

MERRF purpleDO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab

within 5 days.Chem IMD

MERRF

Early morning

urine or muscle

biopsy

preferred in

addition to

EDTA blood



(early morning sample only) and

EDTA blood Do NOT freeze.





box. Must reach lab

within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Mercury Hg purple purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Metabolic screen, urine random urine random urineMinimum 10ml. Deliver

immediately to lab on ice.


iceChem

Metanephrines fractionated, urineIndividual normetanephrine

and metanephrine levels24 hour urine 24 hour urine


3). Please supply patient height

and weight.

As described adjacent Chem

Methaemoglobin MHb green green

NB!! Completely filled tube (5ml).

No air. Deliver to lab immediately

on ice.


Methyltetrahydrofolate reductase

mutation PCR

MTHFR mutation PCR

C677Tpurple purple



GPL2952 v5

Microdeletion syndromes:

1p36 deletion syndrome

2p16 microdeletion

2q23 microdeletion / MBD5

2q33 microdeletion / SATB2

3q29 microdeletion

9q22.3 microdeletion

15q24 deletion syndrome

17q21 microdeletion

22q13 / Phelan-McDermid

Cri du Chat syndrome,

5p15

DiGeorge syndrome 22q11

Distal 22q11 region

DiGeorge region 2, 10p14

Langer-Giedion syndrome,

8q

Miller-Dieker syndrome,

17p

NF1 microdeletion

syndrome

Prader-Willi / Angelman

MECP2 / Xq28 duplication

Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome

Smith-Magenis syndrome

Sotos syndrome 5q35.3

Williams syndrome

Wolf-Hirschhorn 4p16.3

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Microfilaria purple Arrange with lab in advance. <12 hours old Haem

Microsatellite Instability (MSI)MSI in Lynch syndrome

using Bethesda markers

purple, fresh or

parrafin

embedded

tumour tissue




but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Mitochondrial Polymerase G

(POLG) whole genePOLG purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

GPL2952 v5

Mitochondrially encoded non-

syndromic deafness MT RNR-1 / MT TS-1 purple

DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Mt DNA mutations screen for

MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighspurple

DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD


MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighsskin biopsy

2 to 8 °C DO NOT FREEZE.

Send to lab immediately.Chem IMD


MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighs

Mt DNA mutations screen

for MERRF, MELAS,

NARP, Leighs

Early morning

urine or muscle

biopsy

preferred in

addition to

EDTA blood



and EDTA blood Do NOT freeze.





box. Must reach lab

within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Methotrexate yellow gel yellow gel Chem

Mumps IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Mumps IgM yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Mumps virus PCR, CSF CSF Send at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Mumps virus PCR, saliva salivaSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Mumps virus PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Muramidase, serum Discontinued N/A Haem

Muramidase, urine Discontinued N/A Haem

Muscle biopsies

Unfixed,

wrapped in

gauze

Dampened in saline if delayed.

Prior booking required.Histology (Red Cross)

Mycoplasma IFAT Mycoplasma serology yellow gelTest performed at Immunology

laboratory, Braamfontein, Jhb.Micro

Mucopolysaccharides Glycosaminoglycans random urine random urine

Minimum 5ml urine. Deliver to lab

immediately on ice. Arrange with

lab.


iceChem

Myoglobin green green Deliver to laboratory immediately. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

NARP purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

NARP skin biopsy2 to 8 °C DO NOT FREEZE.

Send to lab immediately.Chem IMD

GPL2952 v5

NARP muscle biopsy Frozen. Deliver to lab


NAT2 haplotyping N-acetyl transferase2 purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within

5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Nocardia culture Culture for NocardiaSample from

infected site

Indicate request for Nocardia

culture clearly on request form.Micro

NPM1 exon 12 mutations NPM1 purple purple




days


at RTC21Molecular haem

Myoglobin, urine (qualitative) random urine random urineMinimum 10ml. Deliver

immediately to lab on ice.Chem

NT- ProBNP green greenArrange with lab. Deliver to

laboratory immediately.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

NTX, urineN-telopeptide, bone

resorption markerrandom urine random urine

Second morning urine. Protect

from light (wrap in foil).Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Occult blood, stool random stool random stoolDeliver to lab immediately (within

8 hours).

Not offered due to

instabilityChem

Oligoclonal bands, CSFplain tube CSF

and yellow gel

plain tube

CSF and

yellow gel

Send simultaneous blood sample

in yellow gel. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Ornithine transcarbamylase gene

screenOTC gene purple


5 days



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Orotic acid Urea cycle disorder Random urine Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD

Organic acids, urine random urine random urineMinimum 5ml. Deliver to lab

immediately.


iceChem

Osmolality yellow gel greenSeparate specimen. Deliver to

lab immediately on ice.Chem

Osmolality, stool watery stool watery stool Deliver to lab on ice. Deliver to lab on ice. Chem

Osmotic Fragility Hereditary Spherocytosis purple purple Arrange with lab in advance N/A Haem

Osmolality, urine random urine random urine Chem

Osteocalcin yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Oxalatetimed urine

collection

timed urine

collectionAcidified urine. Chem

Paracetamol Acetaminophen yellow gel green Chem

GPL2952 v5

Parechovirus, CSF CSF

If parechovirus is requested, it

will be done together with

enterovirus PCR.


not freezeViro

Parvovirus B19 IgG

Parvovirus B19 immunity,

Parvovirus B19 IgG, past

exposure

yellow gel

Only for establishing past

infections or seroconversion.

IgM not available. Please specify

that IgG is required, or else PCR

will be done.

Viro

Parvovirus B19 IgM N/A


PCR for acute infection or IgG to

establish past infection or

seroconversion.

Viro

Parvovirus PCR, amniotic fluid amniotic fluid Send at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Parvovirus PCR, blood yellow / purpleSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Parvovirus PCR, bone marrow bone marrowSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

PCP antigen detectionPCP DFAT; Pneumocystis

jiroveciiscrew-top tube

Induced sputum or

bronchoalveolar (BAL) washings

in a firmly closed screw-top

container

Micro

PDH E1a gene (Pyruvate

dehydrogenase E 1a)

PDCD / congenital infantile

lactic acidosis / intermittent

ataxia with lactic acidosis /

x-linked Leigh syndrome /

PDH A1

purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Pearson’s disease mtDNA deletions purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Parathyroid hormone PTH purple purpleNot offered due to

instabilityChem

Phosphate, inorganic Phosphate, Pi yellow gel green Chem

Platelet Aggregation Platelet function testPatient (not sample only) to be

referred to Tygerberg Hospital N/A Haem

Platelet count PLT purple purpleSample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

PML/RARαAPL PCR molecular testing;

PML/Raralpha; PMLpurple purple

1x 5ml BM aspirate - Immediately

on ice and to lab within 24 hrs on

ice

Send on ice C21Molecular haem

GPL2952 v5

PNH screen CDPNH purple Must be booked in advanceSample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

Phosphate, urine Phosphate, Pirandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urine


3). For tubular reabsorption of

phosphate: require yellow gel

(GSH) / green (RXH) tube blood

taken simultaneously.

Chem

Porphyria screen (acute or

chronic)

urine, stool and

EDTA blood

urine, stool

and EDTA

blood

Protect samples from lightUrine, stool and EDTA

bloodChem

Potassium K yellow gel green Chem

Potassium, stool watery stool watery stool Chem

Primary hyperoxaluria (AGXT)

common mutation (p.A112D)

alanine-glyoxylate

aminotransferase / Primary

hyperoxaluria type 1 /

Glycolicaciduria

purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At




within 5 days.

Chem IMD


whole gene screen

alanine-glyoxylate



Glycolicaciduria





within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Pro-BNP (NT)yellow gel or

greenDeliver to lab on ice. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Procalcitonin PCT yellow gel greenSeparate serum and


Progesterone yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Prolactin yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Prostatic specific antigen (total) PSA, Total yellow gelSeparate serum and


Protein C blue

To reach lab within 4hrs - contact

lab if delay. Clinical


required


kept on dry iceHaem

Prostatic specific antigen,free

ratioF-PSA ratio yellow gel

Separate serum and


Protein S blue


lab if delay. Clinical


required


kept on dry iceHaem

Protein electrophoresis, serum SPE yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

GPL2952 v5

Prothrombin mutation PCRThrombin gene mutation

G20210Apurple purple



PTTPartial thromboplastin time;

Heparin monitoringblue blue


lab if delay


kept on dry iceHaem

Pus culture Culture (pus)

Pus: sterile

swab, screw-

top tube or

sealed syringe.

Please indicate site as selective

media may be required.Send at 2-4°C Micro

Pus microscopy Microscopy (pus)

Pus: sterile

swab, screw-

top tube or

sealed syringe.

Micro

Protein, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem


whole gene screen

alanine-glyoxylate



Glycolicaciduria





within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Pyruvate kinase enzyme activity haemolytic anaemiagreen or

purple (2ml)


pathologist. Must be sent with 2

normal controls

Send at 4C. Must reach

lab within 2 days,

preferably at the start of

a week

Chem IMD

QF-PCR (Aneuploidy)

Down Syndrome, Edwards

& Patau syndrome, Turner

syndrome, Klinefelter

syndrome

purple (EDTA)

tube or

amniotic fluid

purple (EDTA)

tube

Discuss with lab in advance. At

least 4ml amniotic fluid in sterile

tube needed



Rabies, suspectedCSF, saliva,

clotted bloodContact pathologist or NICD

Send on ice. Peripheral

labs to send directly to

NICD if possible

Viro

HIV rapid - after hours HIV, Rapid yellow gel

Performed by Micro/Chem on

behalf of the Virology lab in

cases of sharps injury after

16h00 and before 08h00. Other

reasons for testing must be

motivated with the Virology

consultant on call

Micro

Rectal biopsies

In 10%

formalin as

routine


least 10ml blood neededHistology (Red Cross)

GPL2952 v5

Red Cell Membrane studies

Hereditary red cell

membrane disorders eg

Hereditary Spherocytosis

gold 2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At


2 to 8 °C (Do not

Freeze). At least 10ml

blood needed - can be

sent directly to Jhb

Haem

Pyruvate grey grey

NB. Arrange with chem path

registrar. Deliver on ice within 10

minutes.



Reducing Substances, stoolBenedicts qualitative

glucosestool stool

Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab on

ice.Send frozen on dry ice Chem

Renal biopsies

Prior notification required, then

contact lab 5-10 minutes in

advance for collection.

Please contact the

laboratory for renal,

muscle and nerve

biopsies (which may

require fresh tissue sent

on ice).

Histology GSH

Reducing Substances, urine Benedicts qualitative

glucoserandom urine random urine

Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab on

ice.Send frozen on dry ice Chem

Respiratory Virus PCR,

respiratory secretions

respiratory

secretions

Mulitplex PCR for Adenovirus,

influenza A and B, RSV,

Rhinovirus A, Metapneumovirus,

Parainfluenza1/2/3


not freezeViro

Reticulocyte count purple purpleN/A - must be done

onsiteHaem

Renin, active purple purple Do NOT refrigerate.

Purple tube, separate

plasma, freeze rapidly

and must remain frozen

on dry ice during

transport

Chem

Rhesus grouping Rh purple purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At


Not offered due to

instability.Haem

Rickettsia IFAT

Rickettsia or tick bite fever

serology; Weil Felix (Note:

The Weil Felix has been

replaced by the more

specific Rickettsial

serology)

yellow gelTests are performed weekly.(Test


Ro Ab & La Ab Anti-Ro & Anti-La antibody yellow gel




Immuno

Rotavirus Rapid test, stool stool Done with adenovirus 40/41Send at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

GPL2952 v5

RPR Syphilis serology (RPR) yellow gel

The specific treponemal antibody

is performed first and if positive

will be confirmed by an RPR

Micro

Rubella IgG yellow gel






Viro

Rubella IgM yellow gel






Viro

Rubella PCR, amniotic fluid amniotic fluid Send at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Rubella PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Ryanadine receptor common

mutation screen for autosomal

recessive centronuclear

myopathy

RYR1 mutations for AR

centronuclear myopathypurple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

RF Rheumatoid factor yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At






on dry ice

Chem

SACESerum angiotensin

converting enzymeyellow gel yellow gel Deliver directly to Pharmacology.

Not offered due to

instability. Only for GSH

or UCTPAH patients.

Chem

Schistosoma microscopy Bilharzia microscopy urine

Please indicate this request on

the form as this is NOT part of

the routine examination. Please

specifically request

CONCENTRATION of specimen.

Micro

GPL2952 v5

SCL70 Ab Anti-scleroderma antibody yellow gel




Immuno

Salicylate yellow gel greenOnly for GSH or

UCTPAH patients. Chem

Short Tandem Repeats genotyping, engraftment purple purple1X 5ml peripheral blood. To


Sickle cell anaemia

c.20A>T(p.Glu7Val)

mutation in HBB gene (Hb

S)

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Sickling test Sickle cell Anaemia purple purple Fresh sample Fresh Haem

SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy)

genetic test5ml purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

SMA AbAnti - smooth muscle

antibodyyellow gel Immuno

Sex hormone binding globulin SHBG yellow gel yellow gel





on dry ice

Chem

Sodium Na yellow gel green Chem

Sodium, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Sodium, stool watery stool watery stool Chem

Sodium, urinerandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urineChem

Specific IgE (RAST)

Request relevant allergen

being investigated, as

RAST is not a specific test.

yellow gel

N.B. Due to the rise and fall of

circulating Specific IgE antibodies

to insect venom and drugs, blood

samples for testing with venom

and drug should be collected

from 2 to 3 weeks up to 6 months

after an insect sting or drug

exposure.

N.B. Due to the rise and

fall of circulating Specific

IgE antibodies to insect

venom and drugs, blood

samples for testing with

venom and drug should

be collected from 2 to 3

weeks up to 6 months

after an insect sting or

drug exposure.

Immuno

GPL2952 v5

Specific IgG - Aspergillus

fumigatusDISA code GORG yellow gel


used. Lipaemic, haemolysed or



Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

Specific IgG - budgerigar

DISA code GE90. If avian

precipitins requested, select

GE90, GE91 and GE92.

yellow gel





Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

Specific IgG - parrot




yellow gel





Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

Specific IgG - pigeon




yellow gel





Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

Spinocerebellar Ataxias SCA 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 12 & 17purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Sputum culture Culture (sputum) screw-top tube

Sputum, NOT saliva, submitted


container. If routine, fungal and

TB culture required, please

indicate order of preference of

testing in the event that

specimen volume is insufficient

for all tests.

Micro

Sputum microscopy Microscopy (sputum) screw-top tube

Sputum, NOT saliva, submitted


container. Microscopy for

pneumocystis must be

specifically requested.

Pneumocystis microscopy is only

performed on INDUCED sputum.


GPL2952 v5

Stargardt disease (7 common ABCA4

Afrikaner mutations)

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Specific gravity, urine Specific gravity random urine random urineDeliver to lab on ice within 4

hours.Chem

Steatocrit, stool random stool random stool Minimum 5ml. Chem

Steroid-resistant Nephrotic

syndrome (NPHS2) gene screen

Congenital nephrotic

syndrome / SRN / Podocin

gene

purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Stool culture Culture (stool) screw-top tube

Routine culture includes

salmonella and shigella. Culture

for Vibrio cholerae,

enterohaemorrhagic E. coli and

any other stool pathogen is only

performed on request.


Stool microscopy Microscopy (stool) screw-top tube

Microscopy for cryptosporidium is

performed on all children <2, HIV

positive patients with chronic

diarrhoea (if this information is

provided) and patients on

chemotherapy, otherwise on

request only. Microscopy for

microsporidium is not available in

NHLS currently. If a

CONCENTRATION is required to

look for specific parasites, please

indicate clearly on request form.

Please indicate if patient is HIV-

positive or has a travel history.

Micro

Subtelomeric deletions /

duplications

Deletions/duplications at

the teleomere ends (MLPA)

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Succinylacetone Tyrosinaemia type 1 Random urine Arrange with lab in advance. Chem IMD

GPL2952 v5

Steroid profile, urinetimed urine

collection

timed urine

collection

Minimum 200ml. Collect in boric

acid. Discuss with chemical

pathology registrar


SURF 1 whole gene Surfeit locus protein purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab

within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Sulfonylurea purple purple

Requires 10ml blood (2x5ml

tubes). Separate red blood cells

from plasma and transport both

separately. Wrap the plasma in

foil


Syphilis serology yellow gel

The treponemal specific test will

now be used as a first-line

screening for syphilis. If positive,

a non-treponemal test with titre

(i.e. RPR) will automatically be

performed.

Micro

T-cell subsets only (3 antibodies) CD4; CD8 purple purpleFresh sample. Must be booked in

advance

Sample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

Sweat test

sweat

collected at

lab or ward

Discuss with chemical pathology

registrarChem

Testosterone yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and

send on iceChem

Thrombin Time blue blueTo reach lab within 4 hrs -

contact lab if delay


kept on dry iceHaem

Thrombophilia Screen

INR, PTT, ProtC, ProtS,

ATIII, APCR, LAC,

FVLeiden, Prothrombin

Gene mutation

purple and blue

To reach lab within 4 hours -

contact lab/haematologist if

delay. NB genetic testing (FVL,

PT mutation) generally not

appropirate in African patients.

5ml purple & 15ml blue


kept on dry ice. EDTA

blood at room

temperature <72 hours

old for genetic tests

Haem

Thrombophilia Screen (FV,PRO

and MTHFR)

Thrombophilia mutations;

Thrombotic screenpurple purple



Thymidine Kinase 2 whole gene

screenTK2 purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Theophylline yellow gelyellow gel or

green

Only for GSH or

UCTPAH patients. Chem

GPL2952 v5

Thyroglobulin yellow gel yellow gel

Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies

assayed concomitantly to assess

for potential assay interference





on dry ice

Chem

Thyroglobulin antibodies yellow gel yellow gel





on dry ice

Chem

Thyroid peroxidase yellow gel yellow gel





on dry ice

Chem

Tissue culturesterile screw-

top container

Tissue should be submitted in

saline. A small piece of tissue

from the infected site should be

submitted. DO NOT SENT THE

WHOLE SURGICAL SPECIMEN.

Micro

Tissue Typing - Cardiac

Transplantion Work-up

yellow - no gel,

golden (ACD)

and purple

Contact

Laboratory

To reach the laboratory within 24-

48 hours. At least 5ml clotted

blood with gel and 5ml in golden

tube (ACD). At least 10ml purple

EDTA blood

Tissue Immuno

Tissue Typing - Renal


golden (ACD),

yellow gel and

purple

Contact

Laboratory





EDTA blood

Tissue Immuno

Tissue Typing - Bone Marrow


golden (ACD),

yellow gel and

purple

Contact

Laboratory





EDTA blood

Tissue Immuno

Total IgE yellow gel




Immuno

Thyroid stimulating hormone TSH yellow gelyellow gel or

green

Separate serum and

send on iceChem

GPL2952 v5

TORCH screenyellow gel (if

applicable)

yellow gel (if

applicable)

For patients under 1 year,

Toxoplasma IgG/IgM, rubella

IgM, and CMV IgM will be done.

TORCH screen requests for

patients over the age of 1 year

will be rejected. Please specify

viruses to be tested. Consult

pathologist for recommended

specimen types.

Viro

Total protein yellow gel green Chem

Total protein, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem

Total protein, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Toxocara ELISA Toxocara serology yellow gelTest performed at Immunology

laboratory, Braamfontein, Jhb.Micro

Toxoplasma ELISA Toxoplasma serology yellow gel Virology, GSH Viro

Toxoplasma gondii IgG yellow






Viro

Toxoplasma gondii IgM yellow






Viro

Toxoplasma gondii PCR, amniotic

fluidamniotic fluid


not freezeViro

Toxoplasma gondii PCR, aspirate aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Toxoplasma gondii PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

TPMT (Thiopurine S-

Methyltransferase deficiency)

genotyping

Risk for thiopurine /

azathioprine side effectspurple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Total protein, urinerandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urineChem

TransferrinTotal iron binding capacity;

TIBCyellow gel yellow gel Chem

GPL2952 v5

Triglyceride TRIG yellow gel yellow gel Fasting blood. Chem

Trypanosomes Sleeping sickness purple Fresh sample. CSF and bloodN/A - must be done

onsiteHaem

Tryptase, mast cell

Measurement of total

serum tryptase levels has

replaced the Methyl Urine

Histamine assay for the

diagnosis of Systemic

Mastocytosis.

yellow gel

Recommended procedure for

possible allergic reactions: 3

serial Tryptase tests: 1st sample

at 1-2 hours post event, then 2-3

hours later and a baseline

sample >14 hours post event.

Recommended

procedure for possible

allergic reactions: 3 serial

Tryptase tests: 1st

sample at 1-2 hours post

event, then 2-3 hours

later and a baseline

sample >14 hours post

event.

Immuno

TTG Ab (IgA)Tissue transglutaminase

IgA Ab; Coeliac diseaseyellow gel



results. Plasma samples

CANNOT be used. Lipaemic,

haemolysed or microbially

contaminated samples are

unsuitable.

Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

TTG Ab (IgG)Tissue transglutaminase

IgG Ab; Coeliac diseaseyellow gel



results. Plasma samples

CANNOT be used. Lipaemic,

haemolysed or microbially

contaminated samples are

unsuitable.

Only submit clotted

sample, as Plasma

samples CANNOT be

used.

Immuno

Tuberculosis cultureMycobacterial culture;

Culture (mycobacterial)

Sample from

infected site.

TB blood

culture bottles

are available on

request from

the

microbiology

laboratory.

For respiratory samples TB

culture is 2nd-line diagnostic test.

For extra-pulmonary samples TB

microscopy and culture will be

performed if GenexpertMTB/Rif is

not requested/is inappropriate.

Please note that tissue or pus

aspirates are superior to pus

swabs for TB culture.

Micro

GPL2952 v5

Tuberculosis microscopyMycobacterial microscopy;

Microscopy (tuberculosis)

Sample from

infected site

According to national guidelines

GeneXpert MTB/Rif is the first-

line diagnostic test on respiratory

samples, but TB microscopy will

be performed on the 2nd sample

submitted, to determine smear

status and to allow for future

monitoring of response to

therapy. TB microscopy and

culture will be performed on extra-

pulmonary samples if

GenexpertMTB/Rif is not

requested.

Micro

Twinkle (c10ORF2) whole gene

sequencingc10ORF2; mtDNA depletion purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

Typhoid Culture for Typhoid

Blood culture,

bone marrow,

stool or urine

Micro

Unstable Hb purple purple Sample must be < 24 hours oldSample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

Troponin T (high sensitivity) hsTrop T green green Chem

Urea yellow gel green Chem

Urea, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Urea, urinerandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urineChem

Uric acid Urate yellow gel green Chem

Uric acid, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem

Uric acid, urinerandom or

timed urine

random or

timed urine

Urine must be alkalinised (urine

pH > 7)Chem

Urine culture MSU culture; Culture (urine) screw-top tube

Collect a mid-stream specimen

from a properly prepared patient.

For patients who are

catheterised, collect urine from

port above the clamped catheter

and NOT from the drainage bag

Send at 2-4°C. Please

indicate how sample was

taken as this does affect

specimen processing.

Micro

GPL2952 v5

Urine microscopyMSU microscopy;

Microscopy (urine)screw-top tube

Collect a mid-stream specimen

from a properly prepared patient.

For patients who are

catheterised, collect urine from

port above the clamped catheter

and NOT from the drainage bag

Micro

Urinalysis Urine dipstix random urine random urineDeliver immediately to lab on ice

within 4 hours.Chem

Varicella-Zoster IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral

serology.Viro

Varicella-Zoster IgM N/A


PCR for acute infection or IgG to

establish past infection or

seroconversion.

Viro

Varicella-Zoster PCR, aspirate aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Varicella-Zoster PCR, biopsy

materialbiopsy in saline

Never in formalin for virological

testing


not freezeViro

Varicella-Zoster PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

Varicella-Zoster PCR, swab swabSend at 4 degrees, do

not freezeViro

VDRL, CSF Syphilis serology (VDRL) CSF

VDRL is the recommended non-

treponemal serological test for

CSF.

Micro

Vancomycin yellow gel greenGSH specimens to be sent


For GSH or UCTPAH


here for any other

patients.

Chem

Very long chain fatty acids Adrenoleukodystrophy yellow gel green Deliver to lab immediately.Discuss with chemical


Vitamin A yellow gel purpleSample must be wrapped in tin

foil or black paperNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Vitamin B1 Thiamine purple purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Vitamin B12 Cobalamin yellow gel yellow gel Chem

Vitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxy Calcitriol yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab immediately. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Vitamin D, 25 hydroxy yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab immediately. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

GPL2952 v5

Von Willebrands FactorVWF; Factor VIII related

antigenblue blue

Arrange with haematologist or

registrar on call. Fresh sample.

10ml blood required


kept on dry iceHaem

White cell countWCC; WBC; Leukocyte

countpurple purple Sample must be < 24 hours old

Sample must be < 24

hours oldHaem

WidalTyphoid serology;

Salmonella serologyyellow gel

The diagnosis of typhoid fever is

best made by culture of blood,

bone marrow, stool or urine.

Serological tests are imprecise

and difficult to interpret.

Available Monday-Friday. Daily

batches assayed. (Test

performed at TBH Immunology)

Micro

X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy

(ABCD1 gene) whole gene screenXALD purple


within 5 days.



within 5 days.

Chem IMD

X-linked mental retardation

(XLMR) screen (non-syndromic)

RPS6KA3, ARX,

IL1RAPL1, TSPAN7,

PQBP1, HUWE1, OPHN1,

ACSL4, PAK3, DCX,

AGTR2, ARHGEF6, FMR1,

AFF2 (FMR2), SLC6A8 and

GDI1 (MLPA)

purple or



but NOT FROZEN.

Should reach the


Genetics (molec)

Vitamin E yellow gel purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem

Yersinia serology yellow gel

Available Monday-Friday. Daily

batches assayed. (Test

performed at TBH immunology)

Micro

Zinc Zn

trace metal

(royal blue)

tube

trace metal

(royal blue)

tube


GPL2952 v5

Instructions for using this laboratory test list Please ... · SERPINA 1 purple Do NOT freeze. Must...

Documents

Transcript of Instructions for using this laboratory test list Please ... · SERPINA 1 purple Do NOT freeze. Must...