Instructions for using this laboratory test list Tests are ... · Instructions for using this...
Transcript of Instructions for using this laboratory test list Tests are ... · Instructions for using this...
Instructions for using this laboratory test listTests are arranged alphabeticallyPlease follow the sample collection, container and volume instructionsFor a more detailed explanation on how to obtain the specimen refer to "Instructions for sample collection" documentIf you are unsure which specimen should be collected, phone the relevant laboratory section for instructionsUnless otherwise stated the specimen requirement is blood, taken into the indicated tube Unless otherwise stated the volume of specimen required is 4 - 5mlSome more specialised tests may not published in this document. Please utelise the phone list and consult a pathologist directly if any test is required that is not available routinelyElectronic version of the Laboratory Test list, contact details and "Instructions for sample collection" available on:DISA Lab (Ward enquiries) www.health.uct.ac.za/departments/cls/about/Please note that this list was last updated 1/3/2012. Some instructions may have changed.Please contact the laboratory with any specific queries
NHLS GSH & RXH LABORATORY TEST LISTGSH Speed dial RXH
General results centre 021 404 4129 N/A
Anatomic pathology General: 021 404 3000 General 021 658 5209Consultants: Consultant:On call (Histology) 072 620 6916 Dr Pillay 021 658 5236On call (Cytology) 072 620 6682Prof Wainwright 021 404 5258 76862Dr Duffield 021 404 3381 76893Dr Locketz 021 404 3559 76923Dr Wu 021 404 4252Dr Sookhayi 021 404 5346Dr Learmonth 021 404 3047Dr Malaka 021 404 3463Registrars: Registrar:On call (Histology) 072 620 6537 76937 Room 021 658 5237On call (Cytology) 072 620 8356 76944Room 021 404 4234/2387
Chemical Pathology General 021 404 4129 General: 021 658 5224/6Consultants: Consultant:Dr Berman 021 406 6392 77199 Dr Van der Watt 021 658 5224/6Dr Vreede 021 404 5429 76197Dr Omar 021 404 4118 76350Dr Haarburger 021 404 5040 76349Registrars: Registrar:On call 021 404 4135 77198 On call 021 658 5224/6IMD lab:Chem IMD Molecular 021 404 4449/406 6219Chem IMD Enz 021 406 6392/6102
Non-NHLS LaboratoriesBlood Bank 021 404 4091Lipid Lab 021 406 6208/6125Pharmacology 021 404 5383Porphyria Lab 021 406 6521
Haematology General: 021 404 4129 General: 021 658 5204Consultants: Consultant:Dr Opie 021 404 3082 Dr Shuttleworth 021 658 5228Dr Du Pisani 021 404 3081Dr Ntobongwana 021 404 4244Scientist / Molecular testsDr Karen Shires 021 406 6673Registrars Registrar:Room/Main Bench 021 404 3364/3092 76193 Room 021 658 5248
Microbiology General: 021 404 4129Consultants:Dr Whitelaw 021 404 5282/5137Dr Bamford 021 404 6415/5137Dr Moodley 021 404 5295/5137RegistrarsRoom 021 404 5302/3 76652
Virology General: 021 404 4129Consultants:Dr Korsman 021 4046414 76865Dr Hardie 021 404 5201 76866Dr Hsiao 021 404 5200 76867Registrars: Room 021 404 5302/3
Tissue Immunology General: 021 404 4129Lab Manager:Mr Taljaard 021 404 4420HLA Serology Lab. 021 404 4502HLA Molecular Lab. 021 404 4447
Genetics General: 021 404 4129Cytogenetics 021 4044 509Molecular 021 404 4550
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
11- deoxycortisol 11DOC yellow gel yellow gel Chem17- hydroxyprogesterone 17OHP yellow gel yellow gel Chem5-hydroxy-indole acetic acid, urine 5HIAA 24 hour urine 24 hour
urine Collect urine in acid (urine pH < 3) Chem
7- dehydrocholesterol Smith-Lemli-Optiz Syndrome purple 2 - 8°C Lipid (Non NHLS)
ABL kinase mutationsGleevec Resistance testing,CASEQ; mutation studies
purple purple At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on ice/ to lab within 24 hrs
C21Molecular haem
ABO blood grouping/phenotyping purple purple Send to blood bank at RXH Haem
ACA (IgG)Anti-cardiolipin antibody IgG; anti-phopspholipid antibody; CLP; APLA; ACLA
yellow gel Immuno
ACA (IgM)Anti-cardiolipin antibody IgM; anti-phopspholipid antibody; CLP; APLA; ACLA
yellow gel Immuno
Acetoacetyl CoA thiolase enzyme β-ketothiolase skin biopsy
and purple
Skin sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem IMD
Acetylcholine Receptor Ab ACERA yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Acid base studies, urine contact laboratory
contact laboratory
Test must be arranged with chem path registrar. Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Chem
Acute flaccid paralysis 2x stool 48 hours apart
Requires EPID form. Results available from NICD when processed, but this is meant for surveillance and not diagnostics.
Viro
Actinomyces culture Culture for Actinomyces Pus from infected site Micro
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Activated protein C resistance APCR blueTo reach lab within 4hrs or contact lab if greater delay. Clinical haematologist authorisation required
Haem
Adenosine deaminase, CSF ADA CSF CSF ChemAdenosine deaminase, fluid fluid fluid ChemAdenovirus 40/41 Rapid test, stool stool Viro
Adrenocorticotrophic hormone ACTH purple purple Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Chem
Alanine transaminase ALT yellow gel green ChemAlbumin yellow gel green ChemAlbumin, CSF plain tube plain tube ChemAlbumin, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Albumin, urine (Microalbumin) random or timed urine
random or timed urine Chem
Aldosterone yellow gel yellow gel ChemAlkaline phosphatase ALP yellow gel green ChemAlkaline phosphatase isoenzymes yellow gel green Chem
Allergy Food Screening test - FX5 yellow gel Immuno
Allergy Inhalant Screening test - Phadiatop yellow gel Immuno
Alpha feto protein AFP yellow gel yellow gel ChemAlpha-1 antitrypsin A1AT yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Alpha-1 antitrypsin clearance
timed stool collection into preweighed container
timed stool collection into preweighed container
Minimum 5ml stool. Record weight of empty container on form. Yellow gel top blood sample simultaneously required.
Chem
Alpha-1 antitrypsin point mutation analysis SERPINA 1 purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Aluminium yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to the lab on ice. Chem
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Aluminium, urine random urine random urine
Do not collect in a glass or metal container. Deliver to the lab on ice. Chem
Amikacin yellow gel green GSH specimens to be send directly to Pharmacology Chem
Amino Acids (quantitative) yellow gel or green green Minimum 1ml. Deliver to lab immediately. If
delayed, separate and send frozen. Chem
Amino Acids, urine random urine random urine
Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab immediately. If delayed, send on ice or frozen. Chem
Ammonia, serum NH3 purple green Extremely unstable. Deliver to lab immediately (within 15 min) on ice. Chem
Amoebic IFAT Amoebic serology yellow gel Usually batched. Run weekly. (Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
AMP Deaminase point mutation analysis AMP D1 purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Amylase yellow gel green ChemAmylase, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Amylase, urine random urine random urine
Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Serum lipase recommended for acute pancreatitis. Chem
ANA (EliA CTD Screen) Anti-nuclear antibodies; Anti-nuclear factor yellow gel NB- does include anti-dsDNA. Immuno
ANCA Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, MPO & PR3 yellow gel Immuno
5-alpha reductase whole gene screen SRDSA2 purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Androgen receptor whole gene screen AR purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Androstenedione yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Anti - dsDNA Anti-double stranded DNA antibody yellow gel Immuno
Anti-CCP Ab Anti- cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody; Rheumatoid arthritis yellow gel Immuno
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
AntiDNAse B Streptococcal 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 on weekdays only. At least 5ml Haem - RXH
Anti-Gliadin IgA antibodies Anti-Gliadin (deamidated) IgA antibodies yellow gel Immuno
Anti-Gliadin IgG antibodies Anti-Gliadin (deamidated) IgG antibodies yellow gel Immuno
Anti-IgE receptor Ab yellow gel ImmunoAnti-parietal cell antibody Parietal cell antibody yellow gel Immuno
Anti-thrombin III AT3 blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs or contact lab if delay. Clinical haematologist authorisation required
Haem
Apolipoprotein B gene Apo B purple Arrange with lipid lab beforehand. Informed consent required
Lipid lab (Non NHLS)
Apolipoprotein E gene Apo E purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days.
Lipid lab (Non NHLS)
Apoprotein A Apo A yellow gel yellow gel ChemApoprotein B Apo B yellow gel yellow gel ChemArginine succinate lyase enzyme
ASL / ASS complementation assay
skin biopsy and purple
Skin sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab Chem IMD
Arginine succinate synthase enzyme
ASL / ASS complementation assay
skin biopsy and purple
Skin sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem IMD
Aristaless-related homeobox gene (X-linked mental retardation)
ARXdup24 purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Arsenic yellow gel yellow gelNo seafood 72 hours before blood test. Keep at room temperature. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
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.
Chem
Arsenic, nails nails nails No seafood 72 hours before test. At least 100mg nails. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem
Arsenic, urine random urine random urine
No seafood 72 hours before test. Requires 25ml urine. Keep at room temperature. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem
Aryl sulphatase A, leukocyte green green Requires control sample. Arrange with lab beforehand. NB!! Do NOT centrifuge. Chem
Aryl sulphatase A, plasma green green Requires control sample. Arrange beforehand. Chem
ASOT Streptococcal serology (ASOT) yellow gelDaily 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 gelUsually 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-toped tube with this requested (will be performed by Haematology).
Micro
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
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-toped tube with this requested (will be performed by Haematology).
Micro
Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS1and 10)
purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
BARTH syndrome whole gene screen TAZ1 gene purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
BCR/ABL p190 Qualitative PCR for BCR-ABL - ALL purple purple At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on ice/ to lab
within 24 hrs C21Molecular haem
BCR/ABL p210 Qualitative PCR for BCR-ABL - CML purple purple At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on ice/ to lab
within 24 hrs on ice C21Molecular haem
BCR/ABL quantification Quantitative PCR for BCR-ABL (p210); QRPCR purple purple At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on ice/ to lab
within 24 hrs C21Molecular haem
B2-Glycoprotein IgG Anti-B2-Glycoprotein IgG yellow gel ImmunoB2-Glycoprotein IgM Anti-B2-Glycoprotein IgM yellow gel Immuno
Bence Jones Protein, urine timed urine collection
Collect urine in Bence Jones Protein preservative Chem
Beta-2 microglobulin Microglobulin, beta-2 yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Beta-2 transferrin CSF electrophoresis; CSF rule out test plain tube plain tube Chem
Beta-D-glucan Fungitell yellow gel Sent to NHLS Johannesburg - batched three times a week Micro
Beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin yellow gel yellow gel Chem
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Bilharzia IFAT Bilharzia serology; Schistosomal serology yellow gel Usually batched. Performed weekly.(Test
performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
Bilirubin, conjugated yellow gel green ChemBilirubin, total yellow gel green ChemBilirubin, total, fluid plain tube plain tube Sample should be protected from light Chem
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 whole gene screen purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Biotinidase enzyme activity yellow gel Arrange with lab in advance. Deliver to lab immediately Chem IMD
BK virus PCR, blood purple ViroBK virus PCR, urine urine Viro
Bleeding timeperformed directly on patient
performed directly on patient.
Please book this procedure by contacting laboratory. Haem
Blood culture Culture (blood). Blood culture bottle
Only aerobic bottles are used. There is no major advantage to include an anaerobic bottle. Three bottles; taken as separate STERILE procedures ; should be submitted from any patient with suspected sepsis.Volume of blood should ideally be the maximum amount indicated on the bottle. Please indicate if patient had infective endocarditis or if fungal culture is required (incubated longer in these clinical situations). DO NOT STICK LABEL UNDERNEATH BOTTOM of BOTTLE.
Micro
Blood gas analysis Acid-base, pH, PO2, pCO2, base excess, standard bicarb
capped heparinised syringe, no air bubble
capped heparinised syringe, no air bubble
Deliver on ice within 30 minutes. Chem
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Blood Group/Red cell Antibody identification Red cell antibodies purple purple Send to blood bank at RXH Haem
Blood Grouping (ABO & Rh) for transplantation cases gold - 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 Haem
Bordetella PCR Whooping cough PCR Sterile screw-top tube Sputum, tracheal aspirate Micro
Breast cancer BRCA1, BRCA2 purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Brucella ELISA Brucella serology yellow gel Usually batched. Done weekly. (Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
C1-esterase inhibitor concentration yellow gel Immuno
C3 Complement yellow gel yellow gel ChemC4 Complement yellow gel yellow gel ChemCA 125 yellow gel yellow gel ChemCA 15-3 yellow gel yellow gel ChemCA 19-9 yellow gel yellow gel ChemCaeruloplasmin yellow gel yellow gel ChemCalcitonin yellow gel yellow gel 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, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Collect urine in acid (urine pH <3) Chem
Calculus analysis Stone analysis clinical specimen
clinical specimen Chem
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Carboxyhaemoglobin green greenNB!! Completely filled tube (5ml). No air. Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem
Carcinoembryonic antigen CEA yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Carnitine profile green or yellow gel
green or yellow gel
Arrange with chem path registrar. Deliver to lab immediately. Chem
CD34 CD34 collection; CD34 stem cells
purple / apheresis bag collection
Haem
CD4 PLG CD4; CD4 for ARV purple HaemCD64 CD64 PMN; marker for sepsis purple HaemCell count, ascitic purple purple HaemCell count, CSF sterile tube sterile tube Haem
Cell count, CSF Sterile 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, pleural purple purple HaemCentromere Ab yellow gel ImmunoCerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis CTX; CYP27A1 purple/dry
blood spotDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab 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 Chem IMD
CFTR whole gene screen CF purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMDCharcot-Marie Tooth Syndrome
Hereditary Motor Sensory Neuropathy (HMSN)
purple or fresh frozen tumour
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Chimerism analysis genotyping, Bone marrow engraftment, STR purple purple 1X 5ml peripheral blood. To reach lab
within 3 days C21Molecular haem
Chlamydia antibody testing Chlamydia pneumoniae, C. psittaci and C. trachomatis Yellow gel Tranport at 4 °C. Turn-around time 7 days.
Test performed at STIRC, NICD, Jhb. Micro
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Chlamydia antigen detection Chlamydia DFATPus swab from infected site
Micro
Chloride yellow gel green ChemChloride, CSF plain tube plain tube ChemChloride, stool watery stool watery stool Chem
Chloride, urine random urine random urine Chem
Cholera Culture for Vibrio cholerae faeces (stool)Please indicate this request on the form as this is NOT part of the routine culture for stool.
Micro
Cholesterol, total yellow gel green ChemCholinesterase Pseudocholinesterase yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Chromogranin A CGA purple purple Rest for 30min pre-test. Deliver to lab on ice. Arrange with lab. Chem
Chromosome analysis (constitutional disorders)
Karyotype (constitutional disorders)
green tube or green neonatal tube; amniotic fluid: sterile containers supplied by lab
green tube or green neonatal tube
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.
Genetics (cyto)
Chylomicrons, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Citrate, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Collect urine in acid (urine pH < 3). Chem
Citrulline yellow gel Chem IMD
Clostridium difficile toxin pseudomembranous colitis watery stool Stool must reach the laboratory within 3 hours of collection Micro
CMV IgG Cytomegalovirus IgG yellow gel ViroCMV IgM Cytomegalovirus IgM yellow gel ViroCMV PCR, aspirate Cytomegalovirus PCR aspirate Viro
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
CMV PCR, biopsy material Cytomegalovirus PCR biopsy in saline Never in formalin for virological testing Viro
CMV PCR, CSF Cytomegalovirus PCR CSF ViroCMV PCR, urine Cytomegalovirus PCR urine ViroCMV viral load, CSF CSF ViroCMV viral load, blood purple Viro
CO2 total Bicarbonate yellow gel green Tube must be filled completely. Separate tube. Chem
Cold agglutinin titre Cold Agglutinin screen purple purple Arrange with lab in advance. Blood to be taken and kept at 37 degrees celcius Haem
Complement, Total total haemolytic complement yellow gel Deliver to lab on ice. Immuno
Connexin 26 genetic deafness purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Copper Cu yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Copper, liver Wilson's disease liver biopsy No additive. Deliver to lab at room temperature. Chem IMD
Copper, urine random urine random urine
Do not collect in a glass or metal container. Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Corneal scrapings
2 slides labelled on frosted edge, 1 BHI plate and broth
Micro
Cortisol yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Cortisol, saliva salivette salivette Saliva to be collected in a salivette (obtainable from lab) only. Chem
Cortisol, urine 24 hour urine 24 hour urine Chem
Coxiella IFAT Q Fever serology yellow gel Usually batched. Performed weekly. (Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
Coxsackie B antibody titre yellow gel Viro
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
CPEO (Chronic progressive external ophthalmaplegia) mtDNA deletions
muscle biopsy preferred
Frozen Chem IMD
C-peptide yellow gel yellow gel ChemCPT2 (Carnitine palmitoyltransferase II) enzyme activity
myopathy, liver disease skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
CPT2 (Carnitine palmitoyltransferase II) gene screen
CPTase purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
C-reactive protein CRP yellow gel green ChemCreatine kinase CK yellow gel green ChemCreatine kinase MB CKMB yellow gel green ChemCreatinine yellow gel green Chem
Creatinine clearance24 hour urine and yellow gel
24 hour urine and green
Submit blood sample taken within collection period Chem
Creatinine, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Creatinine, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Chem
Crigler-Najjar (UGT1A gene screen)
Hyperbilirubinemia / Gilbert syndrome purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Cryoglobulins yellow gel yellow gel Collect and deliver specimen at 37°C. ChemCryptococcus antigen detection, blood
CLAT; Cryptococcal latex agglutination test yellow gel Micro
Cryptococcus antigen detection, CSF
CLAT; Cryptococcal latex agglutination test
Sterile screw-top tube Micro
Crystals Urate crystals joint fluid Micro
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
CSF culture Cerebrospinal fluid culture; Culture (CSF)
Sterile screw-top tube
Cryptococcal detection methods are performed on all HIV+ patients (if this information is provided), otherwise only if indicated by request and/or cell counts and history provided. TB culture will be performed if indicated by request and/or cell counts and history provided.
Micro
CSF microscopy Cerebrospinal fluid microscopy; Microscopy (CSF)
Sterile screw-top tube
A Gram stain is performed on all CSFs. Microscopy for cryptococcus is performed on all HIV positive patients (if this information is provided) otherwise only if indicated by the cell count result and history provided. TB microscopy is performed only on request or when indicated by the cell count and history provided.
Micro
Cyclosporine purple purple ChemCystathionine β synthase CBS purple Discuss with lab first. Do not freeze Chem IMD
Cysticercus ELISA Cysticercus serology yellow gel Usually batched. Performed weekly. (Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
Cystine, leukocytes green green Minimum 4ml required. Do not freeze Chem
Cystine, urinetimed urine collection or random urine
timed urine collection or random urine
Refrigerate specimen during collection. Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Cystinosis whole gene screen CTNS purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
Cytochrome C oxidase skin biopsySkin sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Deliver blood to lab on ice. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem IMD
Cytogenetics/chromosome analysis (haematological cancer)
Karyotyping
green, bone marrow in transport medium
green, bone marrow in transport medium
Pre book and to be delivered <1hr. Blood can be send in green tube
Genetics (cyto)
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Cytomegalovirus 48hr culture and immunofluorescence (IF) CMV Shell Vial Culture
clinical specimen (eg respiratory secretions)
CMV PCR is the preferred test. Discuss with lab if CMV culture is required. Viro
Cytomegalovirus isolation CMV isolation clinical specimen
CMV PCR is the preferred test. Discuss with lab if CMV culture is required. Viro
Cytomegalovirus pp65 antigenaemia assay PP65 N/A N/A No longer available. See CMV viral load. Viro
Cytospin, ascitic fluid purple or sterile
purple or sterile Sample as fresh as possible. >2ml needed Haem
Cytospin, CSF CSF Cytospin purple or sterile
purple or sterile Sample as fresh as possible. >1ml needed Haem
Cytospin, pleural fluid purple or sterile
purple or sterile Sample as fresh as possible. >2ml needed Haem
D-dimers blue blue To be delivered within 6hrs Haem
Dentatorubral palidolyusian atrophy DRPLA purple or
amniotic fluid3 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Deoxypyridinoline, urine random urine random urine Chem
DHEAS yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Differential count White Cell differential purple purple Deliver immediately to the laboratory. Do NOT refrigerate. Haem
Direct Coombs test Coombs, DAGT purple purple Haem
Disputed Paternity Testing Please contact laboratory for further information
Tissue Immuno
DNA extraction purple Do not freeze Chem IMD
Duchenne/Becker Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Testing for exonic deletions/duplications
purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed.
Genetics (molec)
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Duchenne/Becker Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): microsatellite linkage analysis
purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed. Microsatellite markers for gene tracking.
Genetics (molec)
Dystonia DYT1 purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
EBV EBNA IgG Epstein Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG; EBNA IgG yellow gel Viro
EBV Monospot Epstein Barr Virus Monospot; Monospot yellow gel Viro
EBV PCR, blood Epstein Barr Virus PCR purple ViroEBV VCA IgM Epstein Barr Virus VCA IgM yellow gel ViroEBV Viral load, blood purple ViroEBV Viral load, CSF CSF Viro
Echinococcus ELISA Hydatid serology yellow gel Usually batched(Tuesdays). (Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
Elastase, stool random stool sample
random stool sample Minimum 5ml Chem
ENA
Extractable nuclear antigen; consists of anti-Sm (Smith) antibody & anti-RNP70 (ribonucleoprotein) antibody
yellow gel Immuno
Enterovirus PCR, CSF CSF ViroEnterovirus PCR, stool stool ViroEnterovirus PCR, throat throat swab Viro
Erythrocyte Sedimentation rate ESR, Westergren black or purple purple Haem
Erythropoietin yellow gel yellow gel ChemEstradiol yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Factor II blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. Haem
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Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Factor inhibitor assay Inhibitor assay blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor inhibitor screen blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor IX blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor V blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor V Leiden PCR Factor V; FV mutation purple purple 1X5ml tube. To reach lab within 3 days. C21Molecular haem
Factor VII blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor VIII blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor X blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor XI blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor XII blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. At least 8ml blood Haem
Factor XIII Urea clot lysis time blue blue Haem
Fanconi's anaemia Chromosomal breakage analysis heparin heparin Fresh sample. At least 8ml blood needed Genetics
(cyto)
Fatty acid oxidation defects skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Ferritin yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Fibrinogen blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. Haem
Fibroblasts Tissue culture skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
17
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
FISH (Aneuploidy)Down Syndrome, Edward & Patau syndrome, Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome
green tube or green neonatal tube; amniotic fluid: sterile containers supplied by lab
green tube or green neonatal tube
Discuss with lab in advance. At least 4ml amniotic fluid in sterile tube needed
Genetics (cyto)
FISH (haematological cancer)
green, bone marrow in transport medium or bone marrow slides
green, bone marrow in transport medium or bone marrow slides
Discuss with lab/haematologist in advance. Blood can be send in green tube
Genetics (cyto)
FISH (microdeletions)
Di George, Prader Willi, Angelman, Williams Beuren, Smith-Magenis, Miller-Dieker, Phelan-McDermid
green tube or green neonatal tube; amniotic fluid: sterile containers supplied by lab
green tube or green neonatal tube
At least 4ml amniotic fluid needed in sterile tube
Genetics (cyto)
Flow cytometry/ immunophenotyping, bone marrow or blood
purple purple Must be booked in advance - keep sample at room temp Haem
FLT3 ITD mutation FLT3 ITD purple purple 1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone marrow aspirate (preferred sample). To reach lab within 3 days
C21Molecular haem
FLT3 mutations (ITD and AL) FLT3 mutations purple purple1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone marrow aspirate (preferred sample). To reach lab within 3 days
C21Molecular haem
18
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
FLT3 AL mutation FLT3 TK ; FLT3 D835; FLT3 AL purple purple 1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone marrow aspirate (preferred sample). To reach lab within 3 days
C21Molecular haem
FNA Fine needle aspirates
Prior booking required and should be arranged with lab at RXH or GSH depending on location. Arrange with lab staff to perform smears.
Cytology
Folate, red cell Red cell folate purple purpleRequires minimum 2x5ml blood. Deliver to lab on ice. Must be separate specimen from other tests.
Chem
Folate, serum yellow gel yellow gel ChemFollicle stimulating hormone FSH yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Fragile X syndrome FRAXA purple or amniotic fluid
3 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Free fatty acids FFA yellow gel or grey or green
yellow gel or grey or green
Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Chem
Free light chains yellow gel yellow gel Arrange with chem path registrar. Deliver to lab immediately. Chem
Free T3 FT3; thyroid hormone (free T3), triidothyronine yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Free T4 FT4; thyroxine; tetraiodothyronine yellow gel green or
yellow gel Chem
Friedreich’s Ataxia FRDA purple or amniotic fluid
4 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Frozen sections
Fresh, unfixed, clearly marked.
Book with lab in advance. Histology
Fructosamine yellow gel yellow gel Chem
19
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
FTA, CSF Syphilis serology (FTA)
CSF (serum FTA has been replaced by the TP - see syphilis serology)
Usually batched, but urgent tests can be performed by special arrangement. Micro
Full Blood Count FBC; CBC; Complete Blood Count; Blood count purple purple Haem
Fungal culture Culture (fungal) Sample from infected site Micro
Fungal microscopy Microscopy (fungal) Sample from infected site Micro
G6PD Screen and AssayGlucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency screening
purple purple Fresh sample Haem - RXH
GALT (Galactosemia) enzyme activity
Galactose-1 phosphate uridyl transferase deficiency green green Minimum 4ml. Requires control sample.
Arrange with lab. NB!! Do NOT centrifuge. Chem
GALT (Galactosemia) point mutation analysis
Galactose-1 phosphate uridyl transferase deficiency purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
Gamma glutamyl transferase GGT yellow gel green Chem
Gastrin yellow gel yellow gel Fresh blood (less than 1 hour old) required. Chem
Gaucher's Disease purple or amniotic fluid
5 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
GBM Ab Anti - glomerular basement membrane yellow gel Immuno
Gentamicin yellow gel green GSH specimens to be send directly to Pharmacology Chem
Glucose grey green or grey Chem
20
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Glucose, CSF grey plain tube Recommended simultaneous blood glucose measurement. Chem
Glucose, fluid grey plain tube Chem
Glucose, urine (dipstix) random urine random urine
Deliver immediately to lab on ice within 4 hours. Chem
Glutamate hydrogenase (overactive) purple Chem IMD
Glutaric Acidemia Type 1 common mutation
Glutaric Aciduria / GA1/ GAT1/GCDH gene purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
Glutaric Acidemia Type 1 whole gene screen
Glutaric Aciduria / GA1/ GAT1/GCDH gene purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
Glutaryl CoA dehydrogenase activity skin biopsy
Skin sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Deliver blood to lab on ice. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem IMD
Glutathione synthetase whole gene screen GSS purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
Glutathione & glutathione synthase activity GSH synthase deficiency skin biopsy
and purple
Skin sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Deliver blood to lab on ice. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem IMD
Glycated haemoglobin HbA1c purple purple Chem
Glycine, CSFplain tube CSF and yellow gel
plain tube CSF and green
Submit simultaneous yellow gel or green top blood sample. Chem
Glycogen Storage Disease Type 1- glucose-6-phosphatase enzyme activity
liver biopsy Snap-frozen. No additive. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Glycogen Storage Disease Type 4 Branching enzyme defect 5ml green Discuss with lab beforehand. Deliver to lab
on ice. Chem IMD
Growth hormone GH yellow gel yellow gel ChemHaemoglobin Hb; Hemoglobin purple purple Haem
Haemoglobin A2 Thalassaemia testing/haemoglobin studies purple purple Clinical haematologist authorisation
required Haem
Haemoglobin electrophoresis/HPLC
Thalassaemia testing/haemoglobin studies purple purple Clinical haematologist authorisation
required Haem
21
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Haemoglobin F Thalassaemia testing/haemoglobin studies purple purple Clinical haematologist authorisation
required Haem
Haemoglobin H inclusion bodies Hb H purple purple Haem
Hain test TB PCR
Sputum, tracheal aspirate and other respiratory samples.
The Hain test can be performed directly on AFB positive sputum if requested. The result can confirm the presence of M. tuberculosis and provide rifampicin and INH sensitivity results.
Micro
Ham's test see PNH flow see PNH flow Discontinued Haem
Haptoglobin yellow gel yellow gel ChemHDL cholesterol yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Heamachromatosis HFE purple or amniotic fluid
6 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Heinz Bodies purple purple Fresh sample HaemHeparin Induced Thrombocytopenia HIT yellow gel Fresh specimen. Arrange with lab in
advance. Haem
Hepatitis A IgG yellow gel ViroHepatitis A IgM yellow gel ViroHepatitis B Core IgM yellow gel ViroHepatitis B Core Total yellow gel ViroHepatitis B drug resistance testing (Lamivudine)
yellow / purple
Only performed if Hepatitis B viral load is detectable Viro
Hepatitis B e Ab yellow gel ViroHepatitis B e Ag yellow gel Viro
Hepatitis B PCR yellow / purple Viro
Hepatitis B s Ab yellow gel ViroHepatitis B s Ag yellow gel Viro
Hepatitis B Viral load yellow / purple Viro
22
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Hepatitis C Antibody yellow gel ViroHepatitis C PCR purple Viro
Hepatitis C Viral genotyping purple Only performed if Hepatitis C PCR positive Viro
Hepatitis C Viral load purple ViroHerpes simplex virus IgG HSV IgG yellow gel ViroHerpes simplex virus IgM HSV IgM yellow gel ViroHerpes simplex virus PCR, aspirate HSV PCR aspirate Viro
Herpes simplex virus PCR, biopsy material HSV PCR biopsy in
saline Never in formalin for virological testing Viro
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/A No longer available. See HHV6 PCR. ViroHHV6 IgM Human Herpes Virus 6 IgM N/A No longer available. See HHV6 PCR. ViroHHV6 PCR, blood purple ViroHHV6 PCR, CSF CSF ViroHHV8 PCR, aspirate aspirate Viro
HHV8 PCR, biopsy material biopsy in saline Never in formalin for virological testing Viro
Histology (routine)
Blue / Lilac lid container in 10 % formalin
Histology
Histoplasma serology yellow gelUsually batched, but urgent tests can be performed by special arrangement. (Test performed at GSH Allergology)
Micro
HIV 1&2 ELISA yellow gel ViroHIV 2 Western Blot yellow gel ViroHIV-1 drug resistance testing purple ViroHIV-1 PCR purple Viro
23
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
HIV-1 p24 Antigen yellow gel Only performed if indicated by routine serology Viro
HIV-1 Viral Load
purple / plasma separation tube
Viro
HIV 1/2 rapid test (antibody) yellow gel purple Only done after hours on occupational exposure cases Viro
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
Tissue Immuno
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.
Tissue Immuno
HLA Typing – DNA-PCR – High Resolution per allele purple
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
24
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
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 typing purple
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 antigen purple Mix tube thoroughly to prevent clotting. At
least 10ml blood needed (2 tubes)Tissue Immuno
HNPCC (Hereditary Non-poliposis Colon Cancer)
purple, fresh or parrafin embedded tumour tissue
Blood: 2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Homocysteine purple purple Recommend fasting and 6h post methionine load. Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Homovanillic acid, urine HVA 24 hour urine
3 spot urines collected in tube containing HCl
Collect urine in acid (urine pH < 3) Chem
HPV PCR, biopsy material biopsy in saline Never in formalin for virological testing Viro
HTLV-1 PCR, CSF CSF Viro
25
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Huntington and Huntington-like Disease HD and HDL2 purple or
amniotic fluid3 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Hyperlipidaemia type 1 gene Lipoprotein lipase purple/dry blood spot
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Hypoxanthine phosphoribose tranferase enzyme activity assay
HPRT; Lesch-Nyhan green or purple
Discuss with lab beforehand. Do not freeze. At least 10ml Chem IMD
Hypoxanthine phosphoribose tranferase whole gene screen HPRT; Lesch-Nyhan purple Discuss with lab beforehand. Do not freeze Chem IMD
IgA yellow gel yellow gel ChemIgG yellow gel yellow gel Chem
IgG index, CSFplain tube CSF and yellow gel
plain tube CSF and yellow gel
Submit simultaneous yellow gel blood sample. Chem
IgM yellow gel yellow gel ChemImmunofixation Serum protein immunofixation yellow gel yellow gel Chem
INR Prothrombin time; Warfarin monitoring blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs Haem
Insulin yellow gel yellow gel ChemInsulin - like growth factor 1 IGF 1 yellow gel yellow gel ChemIron Fe yellow gel yellow gel Must reach lab within 30 minutes ChemIsopropanol stability test purple Haem
JAK2 V617F JAK2 purple purple 1X 5ml peripheral blood. To reach lab within 3 days
C21Molecular haem
HTLV-1 PCR, blood purple ViroJC virus PCR, CSF CSF ViroJo Ab Anti Jo antibody yellow gel ImmunoKetones (qualitative) yellow gel green Chem
Ketones, acetoacetate grey, green or yellow gel
grey, green or yellow gel
NB Arrange with chem path registrar. Minimum 1ml blood. Deliver on ice within 30 minutes.
Chem
26
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Ketones, beta-hydroxybutyrate grey, green or yellow gel
grey, green or yellow gel
NB Arrange with chem path registrar. Minimum 1ml blood. Deliver on ice within 30 minutes.
Chem
Ketones, urine (dipstix) random urine random urine
Deliver immediately to lab on ice within 4 hours. Chem
KIR genotyping purple Consult laboratory At least 15ml blood needed (3 tubes) Tissue
ImmunoKleihauer Test purple purple Fresh sample. Maternal blood Haem
KSS (Kearn-Sayers Syndrome) mtDNA deletionsMuscle biopsy preferred
Frozen Chem IMD
La Ab & Ro Ab Anti-La antibody & Anti-Ro antibody yellow gel Immuno
Lactate grey grey Deliver on ice. ChemLactate dehydrogenase LDH yellow gel green ChemLactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes LDH isoenzymes yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Lactate dehydrogenase, fluid LDH plain tube plain tube ChemLactate, CSF grey grey Deliver on ice. ChemLead Pb purple purple ChemLegionella antigen detection Legionella urinary antigen test Urine Micro
Legionella IFAT Legionella serology yellow gel Usually batched. Performed weekly. (Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) skin biopsy 2 to 8 °C. DO NOT FREEZE. Deliver to lab immediately. Chem IMD
LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) muscle biopsy Frozen. Deliver to lab immediately. Chem IMD
Leprosy microscopy Sample from infected site
Clearly indicate request for Leprosy microscopy Micro
Leptospira ELISA Leptospira serology yellow gel Test performed weekly. (Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
27
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Leukocyte alkaline phosphatase
Neutrophil alkaline phosphatase, NAP; LAP purple
Must be done on fresh finger prick sample - blood applied to slide
Arrange with lab in advance. <30min old specimen Haem
LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy) purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy) skin biopsy 2 to 8 °C. DO NOT FREEZE. Deliver to lab
immediately. Chem IMD
LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy)
muscle biopsy Frozen. Deliver to lab immediately. Chem IMD
Lipase yellow gel yellow gel ChemLipid electrophoresis yellow gel yellow gel Fasting blood. ChemLipoprotein (a) yellow gel yellow gel ChemLithium yellow gel yellow gel NB! Lithium-free tube. Chem
LKM Ab Anti-liver, kidney, microsomal antibody yellow gel Immuno
Lupus AnticoagulantLAC Screen and Confirm; DRVVT; Dilute Russel's Viper Venom Time
blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. >15ml blood needed Haem
Luteinizing hormone LH yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Lymphoblasts Lymphs green Do not freeze. Arrange with lab in advance. At least 10ml Chem IMD
Lymphocyte subset analysisT-cell subsets; CD3/CD4/CD8/CD45 (CD16,CD56 if indicated)
purple purple Room temp. DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab within 24 hours. Haem
MA Ab Anti-mitochondrial antibody yellow gel ImmunoMagnesium Mg yellow gel green Chem
28
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Magnesium, urinetimed urine collection or random urine
random urine Collect urine in acid (urine pH < 3) Chem
Malaria investigation Thin and thick film; Malaria antigen test purple purple Haem
Maple Syrup Urine Diseasebranched chain αketo acid dehydrogenase; leucine decarboxylase
skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
McArdle’s disease point mutation analysis
Glycogen phosphorylase; PYGM
purple/dry blood spot Do not freeze Chem IMD
Measles IgG yellow gel ViroMeasles IgM yellow gel Send with urine and EPID form ViroMeasles PCR, CSF CSF ViroMeasles PCR, throat throat swab ViroMeasles PCR, urine urine Viro
Measles notificationurine + yellow top blood
Requires EPID form. Results available from NICD when processed, but this is meant for surveillance and not diagnostics.
Viro
Medium chain Acyl Coenzyme A dehydrogenase point mutation analysis
MCAD; ACADM purple Do not freeze Chem IMD
MELAS purple Room temp. DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
MELASMuscle biopsy preferred
Frozen. Send to lab immediately. Chem IMD
Mercury Hg purple purple Chem
MERRF purple DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
MERRFMuscle biopsy preferred
Frozen. Send to lab immediately. Chem IMD
29
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Metabolic screen, urine random urine random urine
Minimum 10ml. Deliver immediately to lab on ice. Chem
Metanephrines fractionated, urine
Individual normetanephrine and metanephrine levels 24 hour urine 24 hour
urineCollect urine in acid (urine pH < 3). Please supply patient height and weight. Chem
Methaemoglobin MHb green greenNB!! Completely filled tube (5ml). No air. Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Arrange with lab beforehand.
Chem
Methotrexate yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Methyltetrahydrofolate reductase mutation PCR MTHFR mutation PCR purple purple 1X 5ml peripheral blood. To reach lab
within 3 days C21Molecular haem
Microfilaria purple Arrange with lab in advance. Haem
Minor H genotyping mH antigens purple Consult laboratory At least 10ml blood needed (2 tubes) Tissue
ImmunoMitochondrially encoded non-syndromic deafness MT RNR-1 / MT TS-1 purple DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Mitochondrial Polymerase G (POLG) gene POLG purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Mo cofactor deficiency (hypoxanthine, xanthine, urate levels)
random urine Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Mt DNA mutations screen for MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighs
purple DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Mt DNA mutations screen for MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighs
skin biopsy 2 to 8 °C DO NOT FREEZE. Send to lab immediately. Chem IMD
Mt DNA mutations screen for MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighs
Mt DNA mutations screen for MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighs
muscle biopsy Frozen. Send to lab immediately. Chem IMD
Mucopolysaccharides Glycosaminoglycans random urine random urine
Minimum 5ml urine. Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Arrange with lab. Chem
30
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Multiple carboxylase (pyruvate, propionyl CoA, methylcrotonyl CoA) enzyme activity
skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Mumps IgG yellow gel ViroMumps IgM yellow gel ViroMumps virus isolation, CSF CSF ViroMumps virus isolation, saliva saliva ViroMumps virus isolation, urine urine ViroMuramidase, serum Discontinued HaemMuramidase, urine Discontinued Haem
Muscle biopsiesUnfixed, wrapped in gauze
Dampened in saline if delayed. Prior booking required.
Histology (Red Cross)
Mycobacterium Tuberculosis PCR, vitreous fluid vitreous fluid
Only done as part of a panel on vitreous fluid. See Microbiology for other MTB PCRs.
Viro
Mycoplasma IFAT Mycoplasma serology yellow gelBeing an IgM test, specimens are assayed on the day after arrival of specimen. (Test performed at TBH Immunology)
Micro
Myoglobin green green Arrange with lab. Deliver to laboratory immediately. Chem
Myoglobin, urine (qualitative) random urine random urine
Minimum 10ml. Deliver immediately to lab on ice. Chem
Myotonic Dystrophy (MYD) purple or amniotic fluid
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
NARP purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
NARP skin biopsy 2 to 8 °C DO NOT FREEZE. Send to lab immediately. Chem IMD
NARP muscle biopsy Frozen. Send to lab immediately. Chem IMD
31
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Nocardia culture Culture for Nocardia Sample from infected site
Indicate request for Nocardia culture clearly on request form. Micro
NT- ProBNP green green Arrange with lab. Deliver to laboratory immediately. Chem
NTX, urine N-telopeptide, bone resorption marker random urine random
urineSecond morning urine. Protect from light (wrap in foil). Chem
Occult blood, stool random stool random stool
NB!!Deliver to lab immediately (within 8 hours). Chem
Oligoclonal bands, CSFplain tube CSF and yellow gel
plain tube CSF and yellow gel
Send simultaneous blood sample in yellow gel. Chem
Organic acids, urine random urine random urine Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab immediately. Chem
Ornithine transcarbamylase gene screen OTC gene purple Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within 5 days Chem IMD
Orotic acid Urea cycle disorder Random urine Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Osmolality yellow gel green Separate specimen. Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Chem
Osmolality, stool watery stool watery stool Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Osmolality, urine random urine random urine Chem
Osmotic Fragility Hereditary Spherocytosis purple purple Arrange with lab in advance HaemOsteocalcin yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Oxalate timed urine collection
timed urine collection Acidified urine. Chem
Paracetamol Acetaminophen yellow gel green ChemParathyroid hormone PTH purple purple Chem
Parechovirus, CSF CSF If parechovirus is requested, it will be done together with enterovirus PCR. Viro
Parvovirus IgG yellow gel ViroParvovirus IgM yellow gel Viro
Parvovirus PCR, amniotic fluid amniotic fluid Viro
32
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Parvovirus PCR, blood yellow gel Viro
Parvovirus PCR, bone marrow bone marrow Viro
PCP antigen detection PCP DFAT; Pneumocystis jirovecii
screw-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
purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Pearson’s disease mtDNA deletions purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Phosphate, inorganic Phosphate, Pi yellow gel green Chem
Phosphate, urine Phosphate, Pi random or timed urine
random or timed urine
Collect urine in acid (urine pH < 3). For tubular reabsorption of phosphate: require yellow gel / green tube blood taken simultaneously.
Chem
Platelet Aggregation Platelet function test Patient (not sample only) to be referred to Tygerberg Hospital Haem
Platelet count PLT purple purple Haem
PML/RARα APL PCR molecular testing; PML/Raralpha; PML purple purple 1x 5ml BM aspirate - Immediately on ice
and to lab within 24 hrs on ice C21Molecular haem
PNH screen CDPNH purple Must be booked in advance Haem
Porphyria screen (acute or chronic)
urine, stool and EDTA blood
urine, stool and EDTA blood
Protect samples from light Chem
Potassium K yellow gel green ChemPotassium, stool watery stool watery stool Chem
Potassium, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Chem
33
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Prader-Willi/Angelman's Syndrome (PW)
purple or amniotic fluid
3 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Primary hyperoxaluria - alanin-glyoxylate aminotransferase enzyme activity
liver biopsy Snap-frozen. No additive. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Primary hyperoxaluria (AGXT gene)
alanine-glyoxylate aminotransferase / Primary hyperoxaluria type 1 / Glycolicaciduria
purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Procalcitonin PCT yellow gel green ChemProgesterone yellow gel yellow gel ChemProlactin yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Propionyl Coa carboxylase enzyme activity skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline.
Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Proprionyl CoA carboxylase whole gene screen HLCS purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Prostatic specific antigen (total) PSA, Total yellow gel Chem
Prostatic specific antigen,free ratio F-PSA ratio yellow gel Chem
Protein C blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. Clinical haematologist authorisation required
Haem
Protein electrophoresis, serum SPE yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Protein S blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if delay. Clinical haematologist authorisation required
Haem
Protein, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem
34
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Prothrombin mutation PCR Thrombin gene mutation purple purple C21Molecular haem
PTT Partial thromboplastin time; Heparin monitoring blue blue To reach lab within 4hrs - contact lab if
delay Haem
Pus culture Culture (pus)
Pus: sterile swab, screw-top tube or sealed syringe.
Please indicate site as selective media may be required. Micro
Pus microscopy Microscopy (pus)
Pus: sterile swab, screw-top tube or sealed syringe.
Micro
Pyrimidine 5'nucleotidase green Arrange with lab in advance. Chem IMD
Pyruvate grey grey NB. Arrange with chem path registrar. Deliver on ice within 10 minutes. Chem
Pyruvate carboxylase enzyme activity PC skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline.
Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Pyruvate Dehydrogenase enzyme activity PDH, lactic acidosis skin biopsy Sterile in tissue culture medium or saline.
Do not freeze. Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Pyruvate kinase enzyme activity haemolytic anaemia green or
purpleArrange with lab in advance. Deliver to lab immediately. Chem IMD
Rapid HIV HIV, Rapid yellow gel
Performed 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
RDD (Retinal Degenerative Disorders)
purple or amniotic fluid
4 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
35
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Rectal biopsiesIn 10% formalin as routine
Deliver to lab as soon as possible. Histology (Red Cross)
Red Cell Membrane studiesHereditary red cell membrane disorders eg Hereditary Spherocytosis
gold Arrange with haematologist or registrar on call. 2x ACD tubes (patient) 1x ACD normal control
Haem
Reducing Substances, stool Benedicts qualitative glucose stool stool Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Reducing Substances, urine Benedicts qualitative glucose random urine random urine Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Renal biopsies Prior notification required, then contact lab 5-10 minutes in advance for collection. Histology
Renin, active purple purple Transport at room temperature - Do NOT refrigerate. Chem
Respiratory Virus PCR, respiratory secretions
respiratory secretions
Mulitplex PCR for Adenovirus, influenza A and B, RSV, Rhinovirus A, Metapneumovirus, Parainfluenza1/2/3
Viro
Reticulocyte count purple purple Haem
Rett's Syndrome purple or amniotic fluid
5 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
RF Rheumatoid factor yellow gel yellow gel ChemRhesus grouping Rh purple purple RXH - send to blood bank Haem
Rickettsia IFAT
Rickettsia serology; Weil Felix (Note: The Weil Felix has been replaced by the more specific Rickettsial serology)
yellow gel Tests are performed weekly.(Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
Ro Ab & La Ab Anti-Ro & Anti-La antibody yellow gel ImmunoRotavirus Rapid test, stool stool Viro
RPR Syphilis serology (RPR) yellow gelPositive tests will be confirmed by a specific syphilis test, usually available the next day
Micro
Rubella IgG yellow gel ViroRubella IgM yellow gel Viro
36
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Rubella PCR, amniotic fluid amniotic fluid Viro
Rubella PCR, urine urine ViroRyanadine receptor mutation screen RYR1 mutations purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
SACE Serum angiotensin converting enzyme yellow gel yellow gel Deliver directly to Pharmacology. Chem
Salicylate yellow gel green Chem
Schistosoma microscopy Bilharzia microscopy urinePlease indicate this request on the form as this is NOT part of the routine and specifically request a CONCENTRATION.
Micro
SCID point mutation analysis IL-2 gamma chain Receptor; IL2RA purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
SCL70 Ab Anti-scleroderma antibody yellow gel ImmunoSex hormone binding globulin SHBG yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Short Tandem Repeats genotyping, engraftment purple purple C21Molecular haem
Sickling test Sickle cell Anaemia purple purple Fresh sample HaemSMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) genetic test 5ml purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
SMA Ab Anti - smooth muscle antibody yellow gel ImmunoSodium Na yellow gel green ChemSodium, fluid plain tube plain tube ChemSodium, stool watery stool watery stool Chem
Sodium, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Chem
Specific gravity, urine Specific gravity random urine random urine Deliver to lab on ice within 4 hours. Chem
Specific IgE (RAST) yellow gel Give relevant antigen being investigated. ImmunoSpecific IgG - Aspergillus fumigatus yellow gel Immuno
Specific IgG - budgerigar yellow gel Immuno
37
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Specific IgG - parrot yellow gel ImmunoSpecific IgG - pigeon yellow gel Immuno
Spinocerebellar Ataxias SCA 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 12 & 17 purple or amniotic fluid
6 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least 10ml blood needed
Genetics (molec)
Sputum culture Culture (sputum) screw-top tube
Sputum, NOT saliva, submitted in a firmly closed screw-top 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 in a firmly closed screw-top container. Microscopy for pneumocystis must be specifically requested. Pneumocystis microscopy is only performed on INDUCED sputum.
Micro
Steatocrit, stool random stool random stool Minimum 5ml. Chem
Steroid profile, urine timed urine collection
timed urine collection Minimum 200ml. Collect in boric acid. Chem
Steroid-resistant Nephrotic syndrome (NPHS2) gene screen
Congenital nephrotic syndrome / SRN / Podocin gene purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
Stool culture Culture (stool) screw-top tube
Routine culture includes salmonella, shigella and campylobacter. Culture for Vibrio cholerae, enterohaemorrhagic E. coli and any other stool pathogen is only performed on request.
Micro
38
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
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 on request only. 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
Succinyl CoA – 3 oxoacid CoA transferase
SCOT; ketothiolase; ketoacidosis
skin biopsy and purple blood
Skin sterile in tissue culture medium or saline. Arrange with lab beforehand. Do not freeze.
Chem IMD
Succinylacetone Tyrosinaemia type 1 Random urine Arrange with lab in advance. 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
Chem
SURF 1 gene (exon 1- 10) Surfeit locus protein purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Sweat testsweat collected at lab or ward
Pre-arrange with laborarory Chem
Syphilis - specific antibody test Syphilis TP yellow gelThis specific test has replaced the FTA as a confirmatory test for positive RPRs or as a diagnostic test in early primary syphilis.
Micro
T-cell subsets only (3 antibodies) CD4; CD8 purple purple Fresh sample. Must be booked in advance Haem
Testosterone yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Theophylline yellow gel yellow gel or green Chem
39
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Thrombin Time blue blue To reach lab within 4 hrs - contact lab if delay Haem
Thrombophilia ScreenINR, 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
Haem
Thrombophilia Screen (FV,PRO and MTHFR)
Thrombophilia mutations; Thrombotic screen purple purple 1X 5ml peripheral blood. To reach lab
within 3 daysC21Molecular haem
Thymidine Kinase 2 TK2 purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5 days. Chem IMD
Thyroglobulin Ab & Thyroid peroxidase Ab
Anti thyroglobulin antibodies & Anti thyroid peroxidase antibodies; thyroid antibodies
yellow gel Immuno
Thyroid stimulating hormone TSH yellow gel yellow gel or green Chem
Tissue culture sterile 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 Transplantion Work-up
golden (ACD), yellow gel 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 - Bone Marrow Transplantion Work-up
golden (ACD), yellow gel 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
Total IgE yellow gel Immuno
40
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Total protein yellow gel green ChemTotal protein, CSF plain tube plain tube ChemTotal protein, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Total protein, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Chem
Toxocara ELISA Toxocara serology yellow gel Usually batched, performed weekly. Micro
Toxoplasma ELISA Toxoplasma serology yellow gel Usually batched(Mondays).(Test performed at TBH Immunology) Micro
Toxoplasma gondii IgG yellow ViroToxoplasma gondii IgM yellow ViroToxoplasma gondii PCR, amniotic fluid amniotic fluid Viro
Toxoplasma gondii PCR, aspirate aspirate Viro
Toxoplasma gondii PCR, CSF CSF Viro
TPMT (Thiopurine S-Methyltransferase deficiency) genotyping
Risk for thiopurine / azathioprine side effects purple Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab within 5
days. Chem IMD
TPO Ab Anti thyroid peroxidase antibodies; thyroid antibodies yellow gel Immuno
Transferrin Total iron binding capacity; TIBC yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Triglyceride TRIG yellow gel yellow gel Fasting blood. ChemTroponin T Trop T green green ChemTrypanosomes Sleeping sickness purple Fresh sample. CSF and blood Haem
Tryptase, mast cell yellow gelSamples needed: Basal, within 30 min of anaphylaxis & 4 hours after. 15ml blood needed
Immuno
TTG Ab (IgA) Tissue transglutaminase IgA Ab; Coeliac disease yellow gel Immuno
TTG Ab (IgG) Tissue transglutaminase IgG Ab; Coeliac disease yellow gel Immuno
41
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Tuberculosis culture Mycobacterial culture; Culture (mycobacterial)
Sample from infected site. TB blood culture bottles are available on request from the microbiology laboratory.
Micro
Tuberculosis microscopy Mycobacterial microscopy; Microscopy (tuberculsosis)
Sample from infected site Micro
Typhoid Culture for TyphoidBlood culture, stool or urine
Micro
Unstable Hb purple purple Sample must be < 24 hours old HaemUrea yellow gel green ChemUrea, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Urea, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Chem
Uric acid Urate yellow gel green ChemUric acid, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Uric acid, urine random or timed urine
random or timed urine Urine must be alkalinised (urine pH > 7) Chem
Urinalysis Urine dipstix random urine random urine
Deliver immediately to lab on ice within 4 hours. 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
Micro
42
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Urine microscopy MSU 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
Vancomycin yellow gel green GSH specimens to be send directly to Pharmacology Chem
Varicella-Zoster IgG yellow gel Viro
Varicella-Zoster IgM yellow gel Aspirate/swab for VZV PCR preferred test to diagnose chickenpox/shingles Viro
Varicella-Zoster PCR, aspirate V-Z VIRUS PCR aspirate Viro
Varicella-Zoster PCR, biopsy material V-Z VIRUS PCR biopsy in
saline Never in formalin for virological testing Viro
Varicella-Zoster PCR, CSF V-Z VIRUS PCR CSF ViroVaricella-Zoster PCR, swab V-Z VIRUS PCR swab Viro
VDRL, CSF Syphilis serology (VDRL) CSF VDRLs are now only performed on CSF. The RPR has replaced the serum VDRL. Micro
Very long chain fatty acids Adrenoleukodystrophy yellow gel green Deliver to lab immediately. Chem
Vitamin A yellow gel purple Sample must be wrapped in tin foil or black paper Chem
Vitamin B1 Thiamine purple purple ChemVitamin B12 Cobalamin yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Vitamin C Ascorbic acid contact laboratory
contact laboratory
Arrange with chem path registrar. Deliver immediately on ice. Chem
Vitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxy Calcitriol yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab immediately. ChemVitamin D, 25 hydroxy yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab immediately. ChemVitamin E yellow gel purple Chem
Von Willebrands Factor VWF; Factor VIII related antigen blue blue Arrange with haematologist or registrar on call. Fresh sample. 10ml blood required Haem
White cell count WCC; WBC; Leukocyte count purple purple Sample must be < 24 hours old Haem
43
Preferred test name Other informationGSH Specimen container
RXH Specimen container
Precautions, comments & volumes Lab
Widal Typhoid serology; Salmonella serology yellow 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
Xylose absorption test contact laboratory
contact laboratory Arrange with lab in advance. Chem
Yersinia serology yellow gelAvailable Monday-Friday. Daily batches assayed. (Test performed at TBH immunology)
Micro