Services

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimens from APTT assays on nonheparinized patients are kept at room temperature and centrifuged with with plasma remaining on top of cells in an unopened tube should be tested within 4 hours of the collection time.

Specimens from APTT assays suspected to contain unfractionated heparin are kept at room temperature and centrifuged within 1 hour of collection and the plasma tested within 4 hours of the collection time. If agitation is likely after centrifugation the plasma should be removed from the cells.

Specimens from APTT assays on nonheparinized patients are kept at room temperature and centrifuged with with plasma remaining on top of cells in an unopened tube should be tested within 4 hours of the collection time.

Specimens from APTT assays suspected to contain unfractionated heparin are kept at room temperature and centrifuged within 1 hour of collection and the plasma tested within 4 hours of the collection time. If agitation is likely after centrifugation the plasma should be removed from the cells.

Processing Instructions

• APTT may be falsely shortened if the venesection is traumatic.

• APTT be falsely prolonged if the tube is 'underfilled' or the patient has a raised haemoglobin/haematocrit.

APTT may be falsely shortened if the venesection is traumatic.

APTT be falsely prolonged if the tube is 'underfilled' or the patient has a raised haemoglobin/haematocrit.

Notes

Tube filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

Tube filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

APCR no longer available ; request alternative test Factor V  Leiden.

APCR no longer available ; request alternative test Factor V  Leiden.

Processing Instructions

Centrifuge the two 3.5 mL citrate tubes and transfer the plasma to a labeled 4 mL plastic tube and re-centrifuge at room temperature (do not use the refrigerated centrifuge).

The double centrifuged plasma is transferred to two 1 mL eppendorf tubes and freeze. 

Centrifuge the two 3.5 mL citrate tubes and transfer the plasma to a labeled 4 mL plastic tube and re-centrifuge at room temperature (do not use the refrigerated centrifuge).

The double centrifuged plasma is transferred to two 1 mL eppendorf tubes and freeze. 

Notes

May identify venous thrombotic risk.

Can be performed on patients taking warfarin and/or heparin.

Screening test for Factor V Leiden but not specific for Factor V Leiden.

See also - Factor V Leiden

Tube filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

May identify venous thrombotic risk.

Can be performed on patients taking warfarin and/or heparin.

Screening test for Factor V Leiden but not specific for Factor V Leiden.

See also - Factor V Leiden

Tube filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimen should reach the laboratory ASAP.

Specimen should reach the laboratory ASAP.

Processing Instructions

Centrifuge Sodium Citrate sample ; aliquot a minimum of 0.5 ml of citrated plasma into an appropriate transport tube and freeze at -20 deg C. Processing should be complete within 2 hours of collection.

Frozen specimen is stable and can be sent on the next scheduled courier run ( UNLESS MARKED URGENT - if so send immediately ) 

Aliquot is to be sent to the referral laboratory in a frozen state.

Centrifuge Sodium Citrate sample ; aliquot a minimum of 0.5 ml of citrated plasma into an appropriate transport tube and freeze at -20 deg C. Processing should be complete within 2 hours of collection.

Frozen specimen is stable and can be sent on the next scheduled courier run ( UNLESS MARKED URGENT - if so send immediately ) 

Aliquot is to be sent to the referral laboratory in a frozen state.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Specimen Type

Tissue
Faeces
Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Sputum
Urine

Swab
Faeces
Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Sputum
Urine

Optional Specimen Type

Swab

Tissue

Collection & Request Instructions

Eye swab, respiratory specimens, faeces, and urine are suitable for testing.

Method

Monash Tested M, W, F

Part of Herpes mulitplex PCR - not tested on faeces

Faeces - refer to VIDRL

Contact

Monash Molecular Laboratory

VIDRL 9342 2628

Monash Tested M, W, F

Part of Herpes mulitplex PCR - not tested on faeces

Faeces - refer to VIDRL

Refer to Referred Molecular Test requests WORK-MI-90.

Contact

Monash Molecular Laboratory

VIDRL 9342 2628

Request Group

ADEPCR or RESPCR

ADEPCR

Preferred Container Type

Wound swab kit + sterile pot

Swab - white top, plain swab, plastic shaft
Faeces-plain pot
Sterile Jar

Collection & Request Instructions

Eye swab, respiratory specimens, faeces, urine, biopsy are suitable for testing.

Eye swab, respiratory specimens, faeces, and urine are suitable for testing.

External Laboratory

Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (V.I.D.R.L)

Monash Pathology

Frequency

Twice weekly

Method

Eye swabs are best tested in this PCR. Respiratory specimens are tested in the respiratory virus PCR

Contact VIDRL 9342 2628

Monash Tested M, W, F

Part of Herpes mulitplex PCR - not tested on faeces

Faeces - refer to VIDRL

Contact

Monash Molecular Laboratory

VIDRL 9342 2628

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Laboratory

Referred Test

Biochemistry

Collection & Request Instructions

Minimum plasma volume: 150 ul.

Minimum plasma volume: 200 ul.

External Laboratory

Austin Pathology

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

24 hour urine

24-hour urine - ACID bottle

Collection & Request Instructions

24-hour urine collection in plain bottle

Keep refrigerated during collection and send to laboratory immediately on completion

Patient Collection Instructions

24-hour urine collection in acid bottle

Keep refrigerated during collection and send to laboratory immediately on completion

Patient Collection Instructions

Method

24 hour urine, plain bottle. A 50 mL aliquot is sent with the recorded total 24 hrs volume.

An extra 50 mL aliquot needs to be stored.

24 hour urine, acid bottle. A 50 mL aliquot is sent with the recorded total 24 hrs volume.

An extra 50 mL aliquot needs to be stored.

External Laboratory

Austin Pathology

Monash Pathology

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Frequency

Monthly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE USING A SPECIAL COLLECTION VIAL (AVAILABLE FROM PATHOLOGY).

INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE COLLECTION OF SPECIMENS FOR THIS TEST CAN BE FOUND BY CLICKING HERE

PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE USING A SPECIAL COLLECTION VIAL (AVAILABLE FROM PATHOLOGY).

Processing Instructions

Please read VERY IMPORTANT LAB INSTRUCTIONS by clicking here

Please read VERY IMPORTANT LAB INSTRUCTIONS by clicking here

Collection & Request Instructions

PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE USING A SPECIAL COLLECTION VIAL (AVAILABLE FROM PATHOLOGY)

PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE USING A SPECIAL COLLECTION VIAL (AVAILABLE FROM PATHOLOGY).

INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE COLLECTION OF SPECIMENS FOR THIS TEST CAN BE FOUND BY CLICKING HERE

Processing Instructions

Please read VERY IMPORTANT LAB INSTRUCTIONS by clicking here

Please read VERY IMPORTANT LAB INSTRUCTIONS by clicking here

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Laboratory

Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (V.I.D.R.L)

ICPMR (Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research)

Method

Contact VIDRL 9342 2649 / 9342 2650

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Pre-dose serum is required.

Trough level - collect at least 6-8 hours after last dose.

Trough level - collect at least 6-8 hours after last dose.

Processing Instructions

Desethylamiodarone is the major metabolite of Amiodarone

Spin, aliquot and freeze plasma.

External Laboratory

St Vincents Hospital

Royal Brisbane & Womens Hospital

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Processing Instructions

Spin, separate and freeze serum.

Transport frozen.

Request Group

amla

AMLA

External Laboratory

The Children's Hospital at Westmead

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Transport ON ICE IMMEDIATELY to lab

Collection & Request Instructions

Preferable to receive a fasting sample.

Transport to laboratory on ice or transport immediately to laboratory and contact the laboratory staff to expect the sample.

Collection & Request Instructions

Preferable to receive a fasting sample.

Transport to laboratory on ice or transport immediately to laboratory and contact the laboratory staff to expect the sample.

Preferable to receive a fasting sample.

Transport to laboratory on ice or transport immediately to laboratory and contact the laboratory staff to expect the sample.

Frequency

Weekly

Daily

Method

• Spin, separate and freeze serum.
• Transport frozen

CSF ACE has poor sensitivity and specificity hence it will no longer be referred

Spin, separate and freeze serum.

Transport frozen

CSF ACE has poor sensitivity and specificity hence it will no longer be referred

Notes

Patients on ACE inhibitor drugs will have reduced values.

Serum ACE levels are a nonspecific indicator of granulomatous disease.  The ACE level can be normal in up to about 50% of patients with sarcoidosis.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Laboratory

Royal Melbourne Hospital

St Vincents Hospital

Frequency

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

• Serum plain tube with gel collected on ice

Serum plain tube with gel collected on ice

Frequency

Weekly

Fortnightly

Method

• Serum plain tube with gel collected on ice
• Spin, separate and freeze serum
• Transport frozen

Serum plain tube with gel collected on ice

Spin, separate and freeze serum

Transport frozen

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Transport Instructions

Transport at 4^oC

Transport at 4^oC

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Transport Instructions

Transport to referral laboratory at 4 degrees

Transport to referral laboratory at 4 degrees

Notes

• Indicative of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
• 80% of newly diagnosed Type I diabetics have a value > 5 units

Indicative of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus

80% of newly diagnosed Type I diabetics have a value > 5 units

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Transport at 4^oC

Sample must be analysed within 48 hours of collection. Add on test only can be done within 48 hours if sample stored in the fridge.

Processing Instructions

Spin,separate and freeze serum.

External Transport Instructions

Transport frozen.

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

HISTON

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

Mitochondrial Antibodies

Mitochondrial Antibodies, AMA

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

• Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.
• DO NOT use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

DO NOT use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Processing Instructions

Centrifuge and aliquot plasma into labelled Eppendorf tubes and freeze.

• Results are not valid while the patient is receiving heparin.

Centrifuge and aliquot plasma into labelled Eppendorf tubes and freeze.

Results are not valid while the patient is receiving heparin.

Frequency

Fortnightly

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

THYRO

THYG

Laboratory

Referred Test

Biochemistry

Request Group

THYR

THYRO

External Laboratory

St Vincents Hospital

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Laboratory

Referred Test

Biochemistry

Request Group

THYR

THYM

Processing Instructions

• Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) has been cloned from thyroid microsomes and identified as the primary antigen in 'Anti-Thyroid Microsomal Antibodies'
• Levels are elevated in almost all cases of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and in the majority of Graves' disease patients (Anti-TSH Receptor Antibody is more specific for Graves' disease)

Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) has been cloned from thyroid microsomes and identified as the primary antigen in 'Anti-Thyroid Microsomal Antibodies'

Levels are elevated in almost all cases of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and in the majority of Graves' disease patients (Anti-TSH Receptor Antibody is more specific for Graves' disease)

External Laboratory

St Vincents Hospital

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

Anti-10a, Anti-Factor Xa, Apixaban, Clexane, Fondaparinux, Fragmin, Rivaroxaban

Unfractionated heparin level, Clexane level, Fragmin level, Apixaban level, Rivaroxaban level, Fondaparinux level

Collection & Request Instructions

Excerise great care in collection and handling of plasma to avoid the release of platelet factor 4 (PF4) which is a potent inhibitor of heparin.

Sampling times

Clexane       3 hr post injection.

Fragmin       3 - 4 hr post injection.

3.5 mL Sodium Citrate tube filled to label marker, mixed by inversion and sent to laboratory immediately.

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Excerise great care in collection and handling of plasma to avoid the release of platelet factor 4 (PF4) which is a potent inhibitor of heparin.

Sampling times

Clexane       3 hr post injection.

Fragmin       3 - 4 hr post injection.

3.5 mL Sodium Citrate tube filled to label marker, mixed by inversion and sent to laboratory immediately.

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Processing Instructions

• Used for monitoring therapeutic doses of LMW heparin ( Clexane and Fragmin). It is not required for prophylactic doses of unfractionated heparin (use APTT).
• Centrifuge and separate plasma within 1 hour of collection.

Used for monitoring therapeutic doses of LMW heparin ( Clexane and Fragmin). It is not required for prophylactic doses of unfractionated heparin (use APTT).

Centrifuge and separate plasma within 1 hour of collection.

Notes

If testing is delayed by more than 4 hours: spin separate and freeze plasma (plasma should be double spun)

Specimen rejection: specimens that are under or over filled , specimens that do not meet identification requirements.

If testing is delayed by more than 4 hours: spin separate and freeze plasma (plasma should be double spun)

Specimen rejection: specimens that are under or over filled , specimens that do not meet identification requirements.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Estimated Patient Fee $36.00

Estimated Patient Fee $60.00

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Method

Contact VIDRL 9342 2649/9342 2650

Use comment APS when acute sera received and store pending receipt of convalescent sample.

Contact VIDRL 9342 2649/9342 2650

Notes

May 1st to September 30th - Mycoplasma, Legionella, Chlamydia & Influenza serology performed and Q fever when requested.  Influenza serology not performed routinely from 1st October to 30th April.

Paired sera (acute & convalescent) required (collected 2-3 weeks apart). Specimens will not be sent until convalescent specimen received. The exception is Mycoplasma pneumoniae - if < 40 y.o. testing will be performd on initial specimen.

Paired sera (acute & convalescent) required (collected 2-3 weeks apart). Specimens will not be sent until convalescent specimen received.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

• This quantifies antibodies to coagulation factors.

Filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

This quantifies antibodies to coagulation factors.

Processing Instructions

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection. If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor inhibitor assay.

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. Frost free freezers should not be used.

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection. If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor inhibitor assay.

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. Frost free freezers should not be used.

Frequency

Fortnightly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Notes

• Group and Hold is valid for a period of 72 hours only.

Group and Hold is valid until Midnight on the third day post collection.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Bont marrow trephine requires at least 4 hours fixation prior to processing. Please consider this for an Urgent trephine result.

Bone Marrow Collection Instructions

Bont marrow trephine requires at least 4 hours fixation prior to processing. Please consider this for an Urgent trephine result.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Jars of 95% ethanol (alcohol) are available from pathology by calling extension 9895 3477. Bronchial brushings must be fixed immediately either in a coplin jar of 95% alcohol, or spray fixative. The material must not be allowed to dry out prior to fixation as this leads to air dried artefact which makes interpretation of the material difficult.

Bronchial brushings must be fixed immediately either by immersion in 95% ethanol (available from anatomical pathology by calling 98953477) or by spraying with a commercially available spray fixative. The material must not be allowed to air dry prior to fixation as this leads to an artefact that hinders the interpretation of the cytomorphology.

If a brush tip is collected this is to be placed in normal saline or RPMI solution. Do not place the brush tip in formalin as this renders the specimen unsuitable for cytological interpretation.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Laboratory

Referred Test

Biochemistry

Collection & Request Instructions

Fasting specimen required, deliver Immediately to the lab.

Fasting specimen required, deliver Immediately to the lab.

Processing Instructions

Transport frozen

Transport frozen

External Laboratory

St Vincents Hospital

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Method

Spin, separate and freeze

St Vincents run the assay on Wednesdays

Spin, separate and freeze

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Laboratory

Blood Bank

Referred Test

Processing Instructions

CRP-hs is run on a weekly basis in the Box Hill lab.  Specimens should be frozen at -20 within 24 hours of collection.

External Laboratory

St Vincents Hospital

External Transport Instructions

If transporting within 24 hours of collection, 4 deg transport is acceptable.  Otherwise, aliquot should be frozen.

Frequency

Weekly

Daily

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Frequency

Daily

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Laboratory

Australian Clinical Labs (formerly Healthscope)

Alfred Hospital

Frequency

Monthly

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Notes

out of hours CSF samples for cytology can be stored in the refrigerator for routine testing

Out of hours CSF samples for routine testing can be stored in the AP refrigerator.

Out of hours CSF samples for routine testing can be stored in the AP refrigerator.

Collection & Request Instructions

CSF must be delivered to laboratory immediately; cellular degeneration occurs within 30 minutes.

The sample with the least amount of blood is prefered for Cytology.

Collect CSF into three separate, sterile, screw-capped tubes provided (labelled 1,2 & 3)

Tube 1 is for Biochemistry (for Protein and Glucose) 0.5ml (10 drops) required

Tube 2 for Cytology 1.0ml (20 drops)  and/or Flow Cytometry (6ml)

For Flow Cytometry a minimum of 6ml is required  in Tube 2

For Flow Cytometry and Cytology a minimum of 7ml is required in Tube 2    

Tube 3 for Microbiology upto 10ml (Full tube)

Xanthochromia investigation requires a 4th tube containing 1ml of CSF .

The sample with the least amount of blood is prefered for Cytology.

Collect CSF into three separate, sterile, screw-capped tubes provided (labelled 1,2 & 3)

Tube 1 is for Biochemistry (for Protein and Glucose) 0.5ml (10 drops) required

Tube 2 for Cytology 1.0ml (20 drops)  and/or Flow Cytometry (6ml)

For Flow Cytometry a minimum of 6ml is required  in Tube 2

For Flow Cytometry and Cytology a minimum of 7ml is required in Tube 2    

Tube 3 for Microbiology upto 10ml (Full tube)

Xanthochromia investigation requires a 4th tube containing 1ml of CSF.

External Transport Instructions

All out of hours specimens from Anglss and Maroondah should be sent to Box Hill ASAP for processing.

After hours cytology CSF can be prepared by microbiology staff. In the event microbiology staff are not in attendance and will not be called in, please call the Anatomical Pathology Scientist on call.

After hours cytology CSF can be prepared by microbiology staff. In the event microbiology staff are not in attendance please store in the AP fridge.

Method

CSF sample processing:

If Cytology/Flow Cytometry requested  : Tube 1-Biochemistry, Tube 2- Cytology/Flow Cytometry, Tube 3-Microbiology

If Cytology/Flow Cytometry not requested: Tube 1 and 3-Microbiology, Tube 2-Biochemistry

Any confusion between the terms cell count and cytology could be cleared up when the cell count is rung through to the requesting doctor by the scientist. At this point it could be determined whether cytology is a genuine request or not (all to be documented in F8 notes). The CSF can then be forwarded expediently to BHH for cytospin if required.

CSF sample processing:

If Cytology/Flow Cytometry requested  : Tube 1-Biochemistry, Tube 2- Cytology/Flow Cytometry, Tube 3-Microbiology

If Cytology/Flow Cytometry not requested: Tube 1 and 3-Microbiology, Tube 2-Biochemistry

Any confusion between the terms cell count and cytology could be cleared up when the cell count is rung through to the requesting doctor by the scientist. At this point it could be determined whether cytology is a genuine request or not (all to be documented in F8 notes).

Notes

out of hours CSF samples for cytology can be stored in the refrigerator for routine testing

Out of hours CSF samples for routine testing can be stored in the AP refrigerator.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Specimen Type

Sputum
Bronchial Washings
Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Broncho-alveolar Lavage

Respiratory samples

External Laboratory

Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (V.I.D.R.L)

Monash Pathology

Frequency

As required

Twice weekly

Method

Contact VIDRL 9342 2628

Part of Respiratory PCR

Tested M,W,F

Contact Monash Pathology 9594 4532 or if no answer try Bacteriology 9594 4565 as there is someone rostered 24/7

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Specimen Type

Sputum
Broncho-alveolar Lavage
Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Bronchial Washings

Respiratory samples

External Laboratory

Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (V.I.D.R.L)

Monash Pathology

Frequency

As required

Twice weekly

Method

Contact VIDRL 9342 2628

Psrt of Respiratory PCR.

Tested M,W,F

Contact Monash Pathology 9594 4532 or if no answer try Bacteriology 9594 4565 as there is someone rostered 24/7

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

Chlamydia trachomatis NAD

Chlamydia trachomatis NAD, CT/NG

Preferred Container Type

Microbiology collection kit

Genital swab kit + sterile pot

Collection & Request Instructions

http://pathology.easternhealth.org.au/handbook/downloads/microbiology/Swab_for_Gen_Spec_Collection_RC_2.pdf

http://pathology.easternhealth.org.au/handbook/downloads/microbiology/Microbiology_Specimen_Collection_Guide.doc

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

PCHOLS

Processing Instructions

Genetic testing on unspun whole blood is performed by:

Molecular Genetics Department, Pathwest

QE II Medical centre,

Hospital Ave, Nedlands WA.  6009

Phone Lab Results 08 93462903  Spec Recepn. 08 6383 4956

Enzyme testing (serum) : RPA (Sydney) Samples can be frozen, Batched & sent weekly

Genetic testing on unspun whole blood is performed by:

Molecular Genetics Department, Pathwest

QE II Medical centre,

Hospital Ave, Nedlands WA.  6009

Phone Lab Results 08 6383 4223  Spec Recepn. 08 6383 4956

Enzyme testing (serum) : RPA (Sydney) Samples can be frozen, Batched & sent weekly

Frequency

Fortnightly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

CRB

CRPL

External Laboratory

Australian Clinical Labs (formerly Healthscope)

Alfred Hospital

Frequency

Fortnightly

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

CHRA/CHRMA

CHRA

External Laboratory

Sydney South West Pathology Service(RPA)

Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute

External Transport Instructions

Sample must be packed by IATA certified staff member.

Transport serum frozen on dry ice.

Samples will be sent to Peter MacCallum/Sydney South West Pathology (RPA).

Frequency

Monthly

Weekly

Request Group

CHRMA

CHRA/CHRMA

Collection & Request Instructions

Processing Instructions

Cold centrifuge, separate and freeze a serum.

Cold centrifuge, separate and freeze a serum.

External Transport Instructions

Sample must be packed by IATA certified staff member.

Transport serum frozen on dry ice.

Sample must be packed by IATA certified staff member.

Transport serum frozen on dry ice.

Samples will be sent to Peter MacCallum/Sydney South West Pathology (RPA).

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Store at 4 deg C.

Please note that CMV PCR can only be performed on a sample tube which has NOT been used for other testing.  For this reason, this test cannot be added to previously collected samples.

Store at 4 deg C.

Please note that CMV PCR on an EDTA sample can only be performed on a sample tube which has NOT been used for other testing.  For this reason, this test cannot be added to previously collected samples.

Assay name

Cytomegalovirus PCR

CMV PCR

Alternative names

CMV NAD, Cytomegalovirus NAD

CMV NAD, Cytomegalovirus NAD, Cytomegalovirus PCR

Collection & Request Instructions

Store at 4 deg C

Store at 4 deg C.

Please note that CMV PCR can only be performed on a sample tube which has NOT been used for other testing.  For this reason, this test cannot be added to previously collected samples.

Method

Contact Monash Pathology 

Tested M, W, F

Contact Monash Pathology 9594 4532 or if no answer try Bacteriology 9594 4565 as there is someone rostered 24/7

Tested M, W, F

External Transport Instructions

All transplant patients send to VIDRL for CMV Viral Load evn if PCR requested.

Specimens tested at Monash -

Swabs (dry or in UTM) serum, Plasma (ACD or EDTA), Sterile fluids, Respiratory samples, Urine.

Specimens anticoagulated with heparin are unsuitable as heparin inhibits PCR.

All other specimens refer to VIDRL.

All transplant patients send to VIDRL for CMV Viral Load even if PCR requested.

Specimens tested at Monash -

Swabs (dry or in UTM) serum, Plasma (ACD or EDTA), Sterile fluids, Respiratory samples, Urine.

Specimens anticoagulated with heparin are unsuitable as heparin inhibits PCR.

All other specimens refer to VIDRL.

Method

Contact Monash Pathology 

Tested M, W, F

Contact Monash Pathology 

Tested M, W, F

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Assay name

Cytomegalovirus Quantitation

CMV Viral Load

Alternative names

CMV Quantitation NAD, CMV Viral Load

CMV Quantitation NAD, Cytomegalovirus quantitation

Collection & Request Instructions

A dedicated 1 x 4mL EDTA blood tube is required.

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.

A dedicated 1 x 4mL EDTA blood tube is required.

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.

Please note that CMV Viral Load can only be performed on a sample tube which has NOT been used for other testing.  For this reason, this test cannot be added to previously collected samples.

Processing Instructions

If requested on patients other than Transplant and Oncology patients refer to Clinical Microbiologist for approval.

External Laboratory

Austin Pathology

Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (V.I.D.R.L)

Frequency

Twice weekly

Daily

Method

This test cannot be performed on the same specimen as for an FBE or any other test unless an aliquot is made in the Molecular Diagnostics Lab prior to any other test being performed on the blood sample.

  Contact Austin Pathology 94965657

This test cannot be performed on the same specimen as for an FBE. A separate EDTA tube is required.

<400 copies per ml can be detected but will be reported without specific quantity

Contact VIDRL 9342 9628

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Do not use 1.0 mL citrate tubes

Do not use 1.0 mL citrate tubes

Processing Instructions

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection.  If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor assay. 

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.  Frost free freezers should not be used.

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection.  If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor assay. 

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.  Frost free freezers should not be used.

Frequency

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Please consult with Coagulation Laboratory: 9895 3485.  Do not use 1.0 mL citrate tubes

Please consult with Coagulation Laboratory: 9895 3485.  Do not use 1.0 mL citrate tubes

Processing Instructions

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection.  If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor inhibitor assay. 

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.  Frost free freezers should not be used.

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection.  If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor inhibitor assay. 

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.  Frost free freezers should not be used.

Frequency

Monthly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Notes

When blood is collected from an arterial line it is necessary to discard the first 20 mL of blood to clear any heparin from the line before collecting the blood for coagulation tests

When collection is by vacuum tube, the coagulation tube should be collected second to avoid artefactual shortening of coagulation assays due to trauma of venesection

Whe blood is collected for an APTT or Anti-Xa Assay for control of heparin or low molecular weight heparin therapy, it is essential that the citrate tube is sent immediately to the laboratory

Tests include : INR, APTT

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

When blood is collected from an arterial line it is necessary to discard the first 20 mL of blood to clear any heparin from the line before collecting the blood for coagulation tests

When collection is by vacuum tube, the coagulation tube should be collected second to avoid artefactual shortening of coagulation assays due to trauma of venesection

Whe blood is collected for an APTT or Anti-Xa Assay for control of heparin or low molecular weight heparin therapy, it is essential that the citrate tube is sent immediately to the laboratory

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Request Group

COAG

COAGP

Collection & Request Instructions

Do not use 1.0 mL citrate tubes

Do not use 1.0 mL citrate tubes

Processing Instructions

• Fill to label marker and mix by inversion
• Centrifuge and separate within 60 minutes of collection.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion

Centrifuge and separate within 60 minutes of collection.

Notes

• When blood is collected from an arterial line it is necessary to discard the first 20 mL of blood to clear any heparin from the line before collecting the blood for coagulation tests
• When collection is by vacuum tube, the coagulation tube should be collected second to avoid artefactual shortening of coagulation assays due to trauma of venesection
• Whe blood is collected for an APTT or Anti-Xa Assay for control of heparin or low molecular weight heparin therapy, it is essential that the citrate tube is sent immediately to the laboratory
• Tests include : INR, APTT

When blood is collected from an arterial line it is necessary to discard the first 20 mL of blood to clear any heparin from the line before collecting the blood for coagulation tests

When collection is by vacuum tube, the coagulation tube should be collected second to avoid artefactual shortening of coagulation assays due to trauma of venesection

Whe blood is collected for an APTT or Anti-Xa Assay for control of heparin or low molecular weight heparin therapy, it is essential that the citrate tube is sent immediately to the laboratory

Tests include : INR, APTT

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Laboratory

Sydney South West Pathology Service(RPA)

Alfred Hospital

External Transport Instructions

Aliquot whole blood (1.5 mL) from trace metal tube and freeze. send frozen to RPA (batched)

Frequency

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

EDTA
Plain tube no gel

Serum No Gel & EDTA

Collection & Request Instructions

Pre heated 4 mL EDTA tube and 10 mL plain tube. Tubes,needles and syringes must be pre-warmed at 37^oC and specimen placed into a thermos flask ( obtained from the laboratory) and transported to the laboratory immediately. Cold specimens may give erroneous results.

Pre heated 4 mL EDTA tube and 10 mL plain tube. Tubes,needles and syringes must be pre-warmed at 37^oC and specimen placed into a thermos flask ( obtained from the laboratory) and transported to the laboratory immediately. Cold specimens may give erroneous results.

Processing Instructions

Specimen must be centrifuged and separated immediately upon receipt (tubes must NOT be allowed to cool to RT prior to separation)

Specimen must be centrifuged and separated immediately upon receipt (tubes must NOT be allowed to cool to RT prior to separation)

External Transport Instructions

Once plasma is separated, transportation and storage can be at 4 degrees.

Once plasma is separated, transportation and storage can be at 4 degrees.

Notes

• Investigation of cold agglutinin specificity, thermal range and titre by consultation with Haematologist
• Tubes warmed to 37^oC are available from the Core laboratory

Investigation of cold agglutinin specificity, thermal range and titre by consultation with Haematologist

Tubes warmed to 37^oC are available from the Core laboratory

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Faeces is the preferred specimen. When not possible a rectal swab AND an inguinal swab should be taken.

Microbiology Specimen Collection Guide

Faeces is the preferred specimen. When not possible a rectal swab (with visible faeces on the swab)  AND an inguinal swab should be taken.

Microbiology Specimen Collection Guide

Preferred Container Type

Faeces-plain pot
Swab - blue top (Amies transport media)

Faeces pot & Blue swab

Optional Container Type

Swab - blue top (Amies transport media)

Collection & Request Instructions

Faeces is the preferred specimen. When not possible a rectal swab AND an inguinal swab should be taken.

Faeces is the preferred specimen. When not possible a rectal swab AND an inguinal swab should be taken.

Method

Test not yet viewable in ehCare

Test not yet viewable in ehCare

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Method

NOTIFY REGISTRY THAT SAMPLE IS BEING SENT.

Transport on dry ice.

CSF : Test is run weekly. Samples received by 4 p.m. Friday will have the result issued by the end of the following week.

 Blood : Test for PRNP (Prion protein gene)

5 mLs in EDTA tube

Send to

The Australian National CJD Registry

Dept. of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine

The University of Melbourne

Melbourne Brain Centre (Kenneth Myer Building)

Cnr Genetics Lane & Royal Pde

Gate 11, Rear Loading Dock

Parkville , Victoria 3052

Phone 8344 1949

Fax 8349 5105

Link to request form Updated 14.6.18

https://www.florey.edu.au/uploads/content/CJD-FO-008_CSF_Specimen_Data_Sheet_with_14-3-3_and_Tau.pdf

NOTIFY REGISTRY THAT SAMPLE IS BEING SENT.

Transport on dry ice.

CSF : Test is run weekly. Samples received by 4 p.m. Friday will have the result issued by the end of the following week.

 Blood : Test for PRNP (Prion protein gene)

5 mLs in EDTA tube

Send to

The Australian National CJD Registry

Dept. of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine

The University of Melbourne

Melbourne Brain Centre (Kenneth Myer Building)

Cnr Genetics Lane & Royal Pde

Gate 11, Rear Loading Dock

Parkville , Victoria 3052

Phone 8344 1949

Fax 8349 5105

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

Plain tube no gel
EDTA

Serum No Gel & EDTA

Collection & Request Instructions

PLEASE NOTE : One EDTA (purple top) and one Plain serum (red top) tube MUST BE COLLECTED.  All samples must be kept at 37^oC in a thermos flask and delivered to the laboratory immediatley.  Both tubes are required for Cryoprotein analysis.

Heated specimen tubes in thermos flask can be obtained from the laboratory.

PLEASE NOTE : One EDTA (purple top) and one Plain serum (red top) tube MUST BE COLLECTED.  All samples must be kept at 37^oC in a thermos flask and delivered to the laboratory immediatley.  Both tubes are required for Cryoprotein analysis.

Heated specimen tubes in thermos flask can be obtained from the laboratory.

Processing Instructions

Keep the sample in the incubator for 1 hour. Spin and separate serum and plasma into marked aliquot tubes and send at RT.

Keep the sample in the incubator for 1 hour. Spin and separate serum and plasma into marked aliquot tubes and send at RT.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Newborn/Infants: 1-2 ml EDTA

Children: 2-5 ml EDTA

Adults: 5-10 ml EDTA

Newborn/Infants: 1-2 ml EDTA

Children: 2-5 ml EDTA

Adults: 5-10 ml EDTA

Frequency

As required

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Assay name

Cytogenetics - Tumour (Adult)

Cytogenetics - Tumour Tissue Block (Adult)

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Assay name

SKIN BIOPSY - KARYOTYPE

Cytogenetics Tissue Non-Malignant (SKIN BIOPSY - KARYOTYPE)

Preferred Specimen Type

Biopsy

Tissue

Optional Specimen Type

Biopsy

Collection & Request Instructions

Refrigerate, send to lab upon completion

Collection & Request Instructions

https://handbook.monashpathology.org/index?testid=1507

https://handbook.monashpathology.org/index?testid=1507

Collect aseptically. Collect x2 skin punches from extant patients.

Collect approx 5mm square (with 2-3mm depth) skin biopsy from deceased patients.

Use RPMI (obtain from Pathology) for transport. Do not allow the sample to dry out.

External Transport Instructions

Send to Anatomical Pathology for send out to MMC.

Notes

Send to Pathology for send out to MMC.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

FDP, Fibrin Degradation Products

D Dimer, DDimer, Fibrin breakdown products

Collection & Request Instructions

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Processing Instructions

Filled to label marker and mixed by inversion .

Filled to label marker and mixed by inversion .

Frequency

Daily

Notes

FDP assay superseded by D- Dimer assay.

Assay for D-Dimer may be part of the investigation for DIC or venous thrombosis

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

FDP assay superseded by D- Dimer assay.

Assay for D-Dimer may be part of the investigation for DIC or venous thrombosis

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Laboratory

Dorevitch Pathology

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Processing Instructions

Place the biopsy specimen in the centre of a piece of Parafilm about 3cm square, and fold the Parafilm over the specimen so that it forms an envelope around the specimen. Then place this in a capped plastic tube with an appropriate label. Lab Notes Store and transport frozen.

THE TISSUE SAMPLE MUST BE FROZEN IMMEDIATELY AFTER COLLECTION, AS FOLLOWS.
1. WRAP (FOLD) THE TISSUE SAMPLE IN PARAFILM FIRST.
2. THEN WRAP THE SAMPLE IN ALFOIL.
3. FREEZE THE SPECIMEN ASAP.
4. SEND ON DRY ICE

External Laboratory

Royal Childrens Hospital

Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology ( Via Melb Path)

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

DIC Screen, FDP, Fibrin Degradation Products

DIC Screen, DDimer, D Dimer

Collection & Request Instructions

Filled to label and mix by inversion .

Filled to label and mix by inversion .

Notes

• Includes INR, APTT, Fibrinogen and D-Dimer
• Consultation is often necessary, so ensure pager number is clearly printed.

Includes INR, APTT, Fibrinogen and D-Dimer

Consultation is often necessary, so ensure pager number is clearly printed.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Send FBE, Iron studies and Hb electrophoresis results.

Send within 24 Hrs.

Results: 95943398

Send FBE, Iron studies and Hb electrophoresis results.

Send within 24 Hrs.

Results: 95943398

Frequency

Monthly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Please note that EBV PCR on an EDTA sample can only be performed on a sample tube which has NOT been used for other testing.  For this reason, this test cannot be added to previously collected samples.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Please note that EBV Viral Load can only be performed on a sample tube which has NOT been used for other testing.  For this reason, this test cannot be added to previously collected samples.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Tissue  must be placed in glutarldehyde immediately and sent to the laboratory without delay.

Lab hours are 9am - 5pm,  Monday - Friday.

Note: This is a send out test.

Please notify the lab in advance to ensure glutaraldehyde is readily available.

Lab hours are 9am - 5pm,  Monday - Friday.

Note: This is a send out test.

Please notify the lab in advance to ensure glutaraldehyde is readily available.

Collection & Request Instructions

Tissue  must be placed in glutarldehyde immediately and sent to the laboratory without delay.

Lab hours are 9am - 5pm,  Monday - Friday.

Note: This is a send out test.

Please notify the lab in advance to ensure glutaraldehyde is readily available.

Tissue  must be placed in glutarldehyde immediately and sent to the laboratory without delay.

Lab hours are 9am - 5pm,  Monday - Friday.

Note: This is a send out test.

Please notify the lab in advance to ensure glutaraldehyde is readily available.

Processing Instructions

Gluteraldehyde fixative is to be obtained from Melbourne University. Conatact: 8344 5860.

Store fixative in the fridge.

Glutaraldehyde: Store fixative in the fridge.

External Laboratory

Melbourne University Histology

Monash Pathology

External Transport Instructions

Send specimen in gluteraldehyde at room temperature to Anatomical Pathology for processing as a send out test.

Packing List: PL_MELBUH

.

Frequency

Weekly

Method

Call Kings courier: 13 13 22. Quote account no. MBOX8

Send to: Attention - Anna, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, 30 Flemington Road, Parkville VIC 3010 Australia. 

Send to: Attention - Paul Crammer

Monash Medical Centre, Level 3, Anatomical Pathology

246 Clayton Road, Clayton VIC 3168

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Volume (Adults)

4 mL

mL

Preferred Specimen Type

Plasma

not required

Preferred Container Type

Sodium Citrate

Not required

Collection & Request Instructions

Transport specimen at Room Temperature to lab
Samples found to have clots cannot be tested

Laboratory

Referred Test

Unassigned

Collection & Request Instructions

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Transport frozen to reference laboratory

External Laboratory

Austin Pathology

Notes

Pre and post stress test also available for decreased fibrinolysis

Collection & Request Instructions

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Transport frozen to reference laboratory

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

Transport frozen to reference laboratory

Processing Instructions

.

.

Frequency

As required

Monthly

Notes

Pre and post stress test also available for decreased fibrinolysis

Pre and post stress test also available for decreased fibrinolysis

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

FV-PCR

FV-PCR, Factor V Leiden mutation, FVL

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Filled to label marker and mixed by inversion.

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Frequency

As required

Fortnightly

Method

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection. If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor assay.

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. Frost free freezers should not be used.

Specimens kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged ASAP and tested within 4 hours from time of specimen collection. If testing is not completed within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from cells and aliquoted (1mL) into Eppendorf tubes, 2 X 1 mL vials per factor assay.

Plasma may be frozen @ -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. Frost free freezers should not be used.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

Slide & carrier

See Instructions

Collection & Request Instructions

A request slip indicating the clinical notes, prefered FISH probe if know and tissue type.

The follwing 2 micron sections of tissue on positively charged slides (as per immunohistochemistry), clearly labelled with patient name and section thickness must be sent:

a. 4 patient slides per probe. NOTE: For MYC testing a minimum of 6 slides are required. For >2 probes eg. "double hit" samples a minimum of 9 slides are required.

b. 1 H&E stained slide of the section intended for FISH with a marker indicating the optimal region for FISH - ie. the region wiht the most concentrated area of tumour.

A request slip indicating the clinical notes, prefered FISH probe if known and tissue type.

The follwing 2 micron sections of tissue on positively charged slides (as per immunohistochemistry), clearly labelled with patient name and section thickness must be sent:

a. 4 patient slides per probe. NOTE: For MYC testing a minimum of 6 slides are required. For >2 probes eg. "double hit" samples a minimum of 9 slides are required.

b. 1 H&E stained slide of the section intended for FISH with a marker indicating the optimal region for FISH - ie. the region with the most concentrated area of tumour.

See attached referal instruction sheet: http://pathology.easternhealth.org.au/handbook/downloads/anatomical-pathology/FISH_VCGS_instructions_2018.pdf

External Transport Instructions

Please deliver all specimes to:

Victorian Cancer Cytogenetics Service

St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne

Second Floor, Inpatient Services Building

41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065.

T: 9288-4154   F:9288-4155

lynda.campbell@svhm.org.au or fran.omalley@svhm.org.au

Please deliver all specimes to:

Victorian Cancer Cytogenetics Service

St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne

Second Floor, Building A Destination A26

41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065.

T: 9231 4154   F:9231 4155

meaghan.wall@svha.org.au or fran.omalley@svhm.org.au

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Do not add any fixatives. Must be kept refrigerated.

Do not add any fixatives. Must be kept refrigerated.

Do not use Serres Suction cannisters. The use of these devices have been reported to cause a cytological artefact mimicking mucin, which may cause a diagnotic dilemma or an erroneous diagnosis

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Laboratory

Referred Test

Biochemistry

External Laboratory

Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute

External Transport Instructions

Samples can be stored and transported at 4^o C for delivery to referral laboratory.

Samples can be stored and transported at 4^o C.

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

Blood Film, FBE

FBE, Full Blood Examination, Full Blood

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Frequency

Twice weekly

As required

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

The optimal specimen is a low vaginal & ano-rectal swab.

Maternal Group B Streptococcus in Pregnancy: Screening and Management Guideline

http://ehpolicies.eh.local:90/index.aspx?itemDetails=2398

GBS Collection Guide

http://pathology.easternhealth.org.au/handbook/downloads/microbiology/GBS_Information_for_Pregnant_Women.doc

Microbiology Collection Guide

The optimal specimen is a low vaginal & ano-rectal swab.

Maternal Group B Streptococcus in Pregnancy: Screening and Management Guideline

http://ehpolicies.eh.local:90/index.aspx?itemDetails=2398

GBS Collection Guide

http://pathology.easternhealth.org.au/handbook/downloads/microbiology/GBS_Information_for_Pregnant_Women.doc

Microbiology Collection Guide

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Notes

The vast majority of Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTTs) requested are for the diagnosis of glucose intolerance and should be performed and interpreted according to Australian guidelines with fasting, 1hr and 2hr glucose measurements following a 75g glucose load. A small number of requests require variations in this standard protocol and staff must carefully check the request slip to ensure that the correct protocol is followed and the appropriate specimens collected.

Where the doctor has requested  ?OGTT ? fasting and 2hour only? then it is o.k. to omit the 1 hour bloods.

?OGTT with insulin? is used to investigate insulin resistance. This requires glucose and insulin levels at each time point (i.e. 0, 1 and 2 hours).

?OGTT with Growth Hormone/ IGF-1? is used to diagnose and monitor Acromegaly. This requires glucose and Growth Hormone/IGF-1 levels at 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes

GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST  

Please note : Patient must phone collection centre in advance as an appointment is essential for this test.         

 When GTT is requested with either Insulin, Growth Hormone or IGF-1 (Somatomedin C) it is required that blood is collected for these tests at each GTT time interval (eg. 0, 1 and 2 hr collections for each test)

 Patients are tested for their ability to handle an oral glucose load taken in fasting state by measuring their plasma glucose 2-hours after ingestion.

Patient should be on their normal diet until the day of the test

 The test is done at a time when the patient is free of acute illness

 The test is performed between 0800 and 1000 after a 12-hour overnight fast. Water is permitted during the fasting period but eating, physical activity and smoking must be avoided

 If fasting sample is less than 8mmol/L - proceed with the test

 A 75g glucose load in the form of a single 285 mL bottle of chilled Dextrasol. The time and date of ingestion is noted.

 Ingestion should be completed within 5 minutes.

 Two more venous blood samples are taken at 1-hour intervals, starting exactly 1 hour after completion of ingestion.

The vast majority of Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTTs) requested are for the diagnosis of glucose intolerance and should be performed and interpreted according to Australian guidelines with fasting, 1hr and 2hr glucose measurements following a 75g glucose load. A small number of requests require variations in this standard protocol and staff must carefully check the request slip to ensure that the correct protocol is followed and the appropriate specimens collected.

Where the doctor has requested  ?OGTT ? fasting and 2hour only? then it is o.k. to omit the 1 hour bloods.

?OGTT with insulin? is used to investigate insulin resistance. This requires glucose and insulin levels at each time point (i.e. 0, 1 and 2 hours).

?OGTT with Growth Hormone/ IGF-1? is used to diagnose and monitor Acromegaly. This requires glucose and Growth Hormone/IGF-1 levels at 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes.

Collection & Request Instructions

GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST  

Please note : Patient must phone collection centre in advance as an appointment is essential for

Patient Collection Instructions - English

Patient Collection Instructions - Arabic

Patient Collection Instructions - Burmese

Patient Collection Instructions - Hakha Chinese

Patient Collection Instructions -Simple Chinese

Patient Collection Instructions - Trad. Chinese

Patient Collection Instructions - Dinka

Patient Collection Instructions - Hindi

Patient Collection Instructions - Karen

Patient Collection Instructions - Korean

Patient Collection Instructions - Vietnamese

Hormone or IGF-1 (Somatomedin C) it is required that blood is collected for these tests at each GTT time interval (eg. 0, 1 and 2 hr collections for each test)

 Patients are tested for their ability to handle an oral glucose load taken in fasting state by measuring their plasma glucose 2-hours after ingestion.

Patient should be on their normal diet until the day of the test

 The test is done at a time when the patient is free of acute illness

 The test is performed between 0800 and 1000 after a 12-hour overnight fast. Water is permitted during the fasting period but eating, physical activity and smoking must be avoided

 If fasting sample is less than 8mmol/L - proceed with the test

 A 75g glucose load in the form of a single 285 mL bottle of chilled Dextrasol. The time and date of ingestion is noted.

 Ingestion should be completed within 5 minutes.

 Two more venous blood samples are taken at 1-hour intervals, starting exactly 1 hour after completion of ingestion.

Please contact laboratory on 9895-3548 for queries relating to GCT and GTT testing.

GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST  

Please note : Patient must phone collection centre in advance as an appointment is essential for

Patient Collection Instructions - English

Patient Collection Instructions - Arabic

Patient Collection Instructions - Burmese

Patient Collection Instructions - Hakha Chinese

Patient Collection Instructions -Simple Chinese

Patient Collection Instructions - Trad. Chinese

Patient Collection Instructions - Dinka

Patient Collection Instructions - Hindi

Patient Collection Instructions - Karen

Patient Collection Instructions - Korean

Patient Collection Instructions - Vietnamese

Patients are tested for their ability to handle an oral glucose load taken in fasting state by measuring their plasma glucose 2-hours after ingestion.

Patient should be on their normal diet until the day of the test

 The test is done at a time when the patient is free of acute illness

 The test is performed between 0800 and 1000 after a 12-hour overnight fast. Water is permitted during the fasting period but eating, physical activity and smoking must be avoided

 If fasting sample is less than 8mmol/L - proceed with the test

 A 75g glucose load in the form of a single 285 mL bottle of chilled Dextrasol. The time and date of ingestion is noted.

 Ingestion should be completed within 5 minutes.

 Two more venous blood samples are taken at 1-hour intervals, starting exactly 1 hour after completion of ingestion.

Please contact laboratory on 9895 3471 for queries relating to GCT and GTT testing.

GROWTH HORMONE SUPRESSION TEST (OGTT with Growth Hormone/ IGF-1)

Take baseline samples of blood for IGF-1, glucose and GH.

Give bottle of 75 g glucose (or appropriate amount if paediatric patient) which should be drunk within 5 minutes.

Samples are collected at 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes for glucose and Growth Hormone. 

Notes

The vast majority of Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTTs) requested are for the diagnosis of glucose intolerance and should be performed and interpreted according to Australian guidelines with fasting, 1hr and 2hr glucose measurements following a 75g glucose load. A small number of requests require variations in this standard protocol and staff must carefully check the request slip to ensure that the correct protocol is followed and the appropriate specimens collected.

Where the doctor has requested  ?OGTT ? fasting and 2hour only? then it is o.k. to omit the 1 hour bloods.

?OGTT with insulin? is used to investigate insulin resistance. This requires glucose and insulin levels at each time point (i.e. 0, 1 and 2 hours).

?OGTT with Growth Hormone/ IGF-1? is used to diagnose and monitor Acromegaly. This requires glucose and Growth Hormone/IGF-1 levels at each time point (i.e. 0, 1 and 2 hours).

GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST  

Please note : Patient must phone collection centre in advance as an appointment is essential for this test.         

 When GTT is requested with either Insulin, Growth Hormone or IGF-1 (Somatomedin C) it is required that blood is collected for these tests at each GTT time interval (eg. 0, 1 and 2 hr collections for each test)

 Patients are tested for their ability to handle an oral glucose load taken in fasting state by measuring their plasma glucose 2-hours after ingestion.

Patient should be on their normal diet until the day of the test

 The test is done at a time when the patient is free of acute illness

 The test is performed between 0800 and 1000 after a 12-hour overnight fast. Water is permitted during the fasting period but eating, physical activity and smoking must be avoided

 If fasting sample is less than 8mmol/L - proceed with the test

 A 75g glucose load in the form of a single 285 mL bottle of chilled Dextrasol. The time and date of ingestion is noted.

 Ingestion should be completed within 5 minutes.

 Two more venous blood samples are taken at 1-hour intervals, starting exactly 1 hour after completion of ingestion.

The vast majority of Oral Glucose Tolerance Tests (OGTTs) requested are for the diagnosis of glucose intolerance and should be performed and interpreted according to Australian guidelines with fasting, 1hr and 2hr glucose measurements following a 75g glucose load. A small number of requests require variations in this standard protocol and staff must carefully check the request slip to ensure that the correct protocol is followed and the appropriate specimens collected.

Where the doctor has requested  ?OGTT ? fasting and 2hour only? then it is o.k. to omit the 1 hour bloods.

?OGTT with insulin? is used to investigate insulin resistance. This requires glucose and insulin levels at each time point (i.e. 0, 1 and 2 hours).

?OGTT with Growth Hormone/ IGF-1? is used to diagnose and monitor Acromegaly. This requires glucose and Growth Hormone/IGF-1 levels at 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes

GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST  

Please note : Patient must phone collection centre in advance as an appointment is essential for this test.         

 When GTT is requested with either Insulin, Growth Hormone or IGF-1 (Somatomedin C) it is required that blood is collected for these tests at each GTT time interval (eg. 0, 1 and 2 hr collections for each test)

 Patients are tested for their ability to handle an oral glucose load taken in fasting state by measuring their plasma glucose 2-hours after ingestion.

Patient should be on their normal diet until the day of the test

 The test is done at a time when the patient is free of acute illness

 The test is performed between 0800 and 1000 after a 12-hour overnight fast. Water is permitted during the fasting period but eating, physical activity and smoking must be avoided

 If fasting sample is less than 8mmol/L - proceed with the test

 A 75g glucose load in the form of a single 285 mL bottle of chilled Dextrasol. The time and date of ingestion is noted.

 Ingestion should be completed within 5 minutes.

 Two more venous blood samples are taken at 1-hour intervals, starting exactly 1 hour after completion of ingestion.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Method

Recently drawn whole blood specimen stored in the refrigerator (less than one week). 

Recently drawn whole blood specimen stored in the refrigerator (less than one week). 

Notes

The results of this assay should be interpreted with the haematological status of the individual in mind at the time of testing. 

Samples which have been determined deficient or intermediate by the screening method should be assayed by a quantitative method.  

The results of this assay should be interpreted with the haematological status of the individual in mind at the time of testing. 

Samples which have been determined deficient or intermediate by the screening method should be assayed by a quantitative method.  

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

This test is replaced by Spherocytosis by Flow Cytometry.

See - Spherocytosis by Flow Cytometry.

Cost: $150.00 Patient will be charged as non -rebatable test

This test is replaced by Spherocytosis by Flow Cytometry.

See - Spherocytosis by Flow Cytometry.

Cost: $150.00 Patient will be charged as non -rebatable test

Frequency

As required

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Method

From the 15/1/2018 Chlamydia trachomatis PCR will be performed in Microbiology at BHH on male and female first stream urines and female enodocervial/vaginal swabs.

Tests are performed Monday, Wednesday and Friday

If confirmatory testing required specimens will be sent to VIDRL .

Refer to WORK-MI-88 for instructions on how to transfer urines and swabs to collection tubes.

20/08/2018 if a gel swab is received send sample to Microbiology (do not add a KIMMS) who will decide if testing can be performed.

From the 15/1/2018 Chlamydia trachomatis PCR will be performed in Microbiology at BHH on male and female first stream urines and female enodocervial/vaginal swabs.

Tests are performed Monday, Wednesday and Friday

If confirmatory testing required specimens will be sent to VIDRL .

Refer to WORK-MI-88 for instructions on how to transfer urines and swabs to collection tubes.

Collection & Request Instructions

Urine

15 - 20 mL of first-stream urine specimen collected at least one hour since the patient last voided. Refrigerate immediately.

Cervical  & Vaginal swabs

Use plastic swab without transport medium.

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory.

ALL specimens must reach the Pathology Laboratory within 2 hours of collection.

 http://pathology.easternhealth.org.au/handbook/downloads/microbiology/Swab_for_Gen_Spec_Collection_RC_2.pdf

Urine

15 - 20 mL of first-stream urine specimen collected at least one hour since the patient last voided. Refrigerate immediately.

Cervical  & Vaginal swabs

Use plastic swab without transport medium.

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory.

ALL specimens must reach the Pathology Laboratory within 2 hours of collection.

 http://pathology.easternhealth.org.au/handbook/downloads/microbiology/Microbiology_Specimen_Collection_Guide.doc

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Notes

See - Full Blood Examination

See - Full Blood Examination

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

A1CS

HBA1CP, A1CP

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Transport Instructions

Monash Hb Electrophoresis lab: 95943490

Monash Hb Electrophoresis lab: 95943490

Notes

• Ethnic origin must be stated to allow appropriate testing
• FBE and Iron studies should be performed

Specimens must be in the laboratory before 4pm

Send FBE & Iron studies results if available. Send within 24 hrs at Room temperature.

Ethnic origin must be stated to allow appropriate testing

FBE and Iron studies should be performed

Specimens must be in the laboratory before 4pm

Send FBE & Iron studies results if available. Send within 24 hrs at Room temperature.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Frequency

Daily

As required

Notes

• An FBE is usually performed concurrently
• The presence of Heinz bodies indicates oxidant drug haemolysis, asplenia or unstable haemoglobin

An FBE is usually performed concurrently

The presence of Heinz bodies indicates oxidant drug haemolysis, asplenia or unstable haemoglobin

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Transport specimen at Room Temperature to lab

Collection & Request Instructions

The DiaMed Hits screen will detect approx. 85%of HITS positive patients.

If clinical indicators are strong but the DiaMed test negative, a serum sample can be forwarded for ELISA testing (HITE) at Monash Medical Centre

ELISA testing is only available after consultation with the Consultant Haematologist or Haematology Registrar.

ELISA testing is only available after consultation with the Consultant Haematologist or Haematology Registrar.

Processing Instructions

Laboratory staff at Monash Medical Centre must be informed if the ELISA test is to be done urgently.

transport - serum frozen to MMC unless test is to be done same day.

(MMC Coagulation: 9594 3489)

Laboratory staff at Monash Medical Centre must be informed if the ELISA test is to be done urgently.

Transport - serum frozen to MMC.

(MMC Special Haematology: 9594 3490)

External Laboratory

Monash Pathology

Notes

Plain tube with gel

Keep at room temperature and send to laboratory immediately.   DO NOT FREEZE

Plain tube with gel

Collection & Request Instructions

The DiaMed Hits screen will detect approx. 85%of HITS positive patients.

• If clinical indicators are strong but the DiaMed test negative, a serum sample can be forwarded for ELISA testing (HITE) at Monash Medical Centre
• ELISA testing is only available after consultation with the Consultant Haematologist or Haematology Registrar.

The DiaMed Hits screen will detect approx. 85%of HITS positive patients.

If clinical indicators are strong but the DiaMed test negative, a serum sample can be forwarded for ELISA testing (HITE) at Monash Medical Centre

ELISA testing is only available after consultation with the Consultant Haematologist or Haematology Registrar.

Processing Instructions

• Laboratory staff at Monash Medical Centre must be informed if the ELISA test is to be done urgently.
• transport - serum frozen to MMC unless test is to be done same day.
• (MMC Coagulation: 9594 3489)

Laboratory staff at Monash Medical Centre must be informed if the ELISA test is to be done urgently.

transport - serum frozen to MMC unless test is to be done same day.

(MMC Coagulation: 9594 3489)

Frequency

Weekly

Notes

Plain tube with gel

Keep at room temperature and send to laboratory immediately.   DO NOT FREEZE

Plain tube with gel

Keep at room temperature and send to laboratory immediately.   DO NOT FREEZE

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

E5M, EMA Binding, Eosin-5-Malaimide Stain

E5M, EMA Binding, Eosin-5-Maleimide Stain

Alternative names

Eosin-5-Maleimide Stain (E5M)

Eosin-5-Malaimide Stain, E5M, EMA Binding

Alternative names

Eosin-5-Maleimide Stain (E5M)

Request Group

HSSCR

Frequency

As required

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Method

Contact Monash Pathology:

Tested M, W, F

Contact Monash Pathology 9594 4532 or if no answer try Bacteriology 9594 4565 as there is someone rostered 24/7

Tested M, W, F

External Transport Instructions

Tests included in Monash PCR - Herpes simplex 1 virus, Herpes simplex 2 virus, Varicella zoster virus, Cytomegalovirus, Enterovirus (swabs only), Adenovirus (not faeces)

Specimens tested at Monash-

Swabs (dry or in UTM) serum, Plasma (ACD or EDTA), Sterile fluids, Respiratory samples, Urine.

Specimens anticoagulated with heparin are unsuitable as heparin inhibits PCR

For other specimens - refer to VIDRL. Tissue, CSF, saliva.

If  CSF Herpes and Enterovirus PCR -send to VIDRL.

Refer to Referred Moleclar Test Requests WORK-MI-90

Tests included in Monash PCR - Herpes simplex 1 virus, Herpes simplex 2 virus, Varicella zoster virus, Cytomegalovirus, Enterovirus (swabs only), Adenovirus (not faeces)

Specimens tested at Monash-

Swabs (dry or in UTM) serum, Plasma (ACD or EDTA), Sterile fluids, Respiratory samples, Urine.

Specimens anticoagulated with heparin are unsuitable as heparin inhibits PCR

For other specimens - refer to VIDRL. Tissue, CSF, saliva.

If  CSF Herpes and Enterovirus PCR -send to VIDRL.

Refer to Referred Molecular Test Requests WORK-MI-90

External Transport Instructions

Tests included in Monash PCR - Herpes simplex 1 virus, Herpes simplex 2 virus, Varicella zoster virus, Cytomegalovirus, Enterovirus (swabs only), Adenovirus (not faeces)

Specimens tested at Monash-

Swabs (dry or in UTM) serum, Plasma (ACD or EDTA), Sterile fluids, Respiratory samples, Urine.

Specimens anticoagulated with heparin are unsuitable as heparin inhibits PCR

For other specimens - refer to VIDRL. Tissue, CSF, saliva.

If  CSF Herpes and Enterovirus PCR -send to VIDRL.

Tests included in Monash PCR - Herpes simplex 1 virus, Herpes simplex 2 virus, Varicella zoster virus, Cytomegalovirus, Enterovirus (swabs only), Adenovirus (not faeces)

Specimens tested at Monash-

Swabs (dry or in UTM) serum, Plasma (ACD or EDTA), Sterile fluids, Respiratory samples, Urine.

Specimens anticoagulated with heparin are unsuitable as heparin inhibits PCR

For other specimens - refer to VIDRL. Tissue, CSF, saliva.

If  CSF Herpes and Enterovirus PCR -send to VIDRL.

Refer to Referred Moleclar Test Requests WORK-MI-90

Processing Instructions

Store at 4 deg C

Tested M, W, F

Store at 4 deg C

Method

Contact Monash Pathology:

Contact Monash Pathology:

Tested M, W, F

Notes

This test detects Herpes Simplex Virus 1(HSV-1), Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2), and Varicella zoster virus (VZV).

This test detects Herpes Simplex Virus 1(HSV-1), Herpes Simplex Virus 2 (HSV-2), Varicella zoster virus (VZV) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Organ Transplants- 40 ml ACD

                                 10 ml Serum (Cytotoxic antibodies)

 Coeliac Paediatric HLA:     4ml EDTA or 5ml in  ACD tube

Please provide correct information of relatives with details of HLA patient. eg: Mother, Father etc.

Organ Transplants- 40 ml ACD

                                 10 ml Serum (Cytotoxic antibodies)

Coeliac HLA                  : 1 x ACD tube  

 Coeliac Paediatric HLA:     4ml EDTA or 5ml in  ACD tube

Please provide correct information of relatives with details of HLA patient. eg: Mother, Father etc.

Frequency

Twice weekly

Preferred Container Type

ACD

ACD + Serum

Collection & Request Instructions

Organ Transplants- 40 ml ACD

                                 10 ml Serum (Cytotoxic antibodies)

 Coeliac Paediatric HLA:     4ml EDTA or 5ml in  ACD tube

Please provide correct information of relatives with details of HLA patient. eg: Mother, Father etc.

Organ Transplants- 40 ml ACD

                                 10 ml Serum (Cytotoxic antibodies)

 Coeliac Paediatric HLA:     4ml EDTA or 5ml in  ACD tube

Please provide correct information of relatives with details of HLA patient. eg: Mother, Father etc.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

IMAT

Processing Instructions

Spin,aliquot plasma and freeze.

External Transport Instructions

Frozen sample to be packed by IATA trained personal.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

DIF, IF, Immunofluorescence, Punch biopsy of skin, Renal IF

DIF, IF, Immunofluorescence, IMF, Punch biopsy of skin, Renal IF

Request Group

HIF

HISTO

Preferred Container Type

Not required

Sterile Jar

Collection & Request Instructions

Transport ON ICE IMMEDIATELY to lab

Collection & Request Instructions

Renal IF: The fresh tissue is placed into Michel's transport medium..

Skin IF: If immunofluorescence is required 2 specimens should be taken, one placed in formalin, the other fresh on saline soaked gauze. If Microbiological culture is required, a third fresh specimen should be sent. Fresh tissue should be delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible Mon-Fri during business hours - as this test is refered to Melbourne Pathology. Please call the laboratory on 9895 3884 of impending arrival.

Renal IF: The fresh tissue is placed into Michel's transport medium..

Skin IF: If immunofluorescence is required 2 punch biopsies should be taken, one placed in formalin, the other remains fresh and placed on saline soaked gauze. If microbiological culture is required, a third punch biopsy should be taken. This should also be received fresh on saline soaked gauze.

Fresh tissue for IF should be placed in an eksy on ice and delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible. If there is a short delay in transporation please place tissue in fridge at 4⁰C until the specimen can be sent.

If there is to be a long delay (> 12 hours) in transportation the fresh specimen should be place in Michel's medium. 

Processing Instructions

RENAL: Only send to Monash Medical Centre when requested by the Pathologist. Otherwise store in the AP fridge for 1 month then discard. Please send a satined H&E slide also.

SKIN: Fresh specimens on saline soaked gauze are sent out for direct immunofluorescence. If sent to the laboratory out of hours call the on call pathologist - they will most likely recommend to put in the fridge. Generally this is not an on-call procedure for scientists to come in and send out - as reporting will not be done until the next working day. If Microbiological culture is required, a third fresh specimen should be sent.

RENAL: IF on renal biopsies is only requested by the renal  pathologist. Otherwise store in the AP fridge for 3 month then discard.

SKIN: Fresh specimens received on saline soaked gauze for IF are now performed in house. If skin specimen is sent to the laboratory out of hours please call the 'on call" pathologist to check that IF is requested. If IF is requested place specimen into Michel's medium. This is found in the fridge in the Anatomical Pathology Laboratory.Place specimen in bucket - "DIF to be frozen". Generally this is not an on-call procedure for scientists to come in for.  If microbiological culture is required, a third fresh specimen should be sent to the microbiology laboratory.

External Laboratory

Melbourne Pathology

External Transport Instructions

Method

Renal IF:

Monash Medical Centre Courier times = 10.30am Mon-Fri.

Aantomical Pathology 246 Clayton Road VIC 3066.  Call theLab on 9594 4538 to let them know it is coming. Fax the request form to Paul Crammer on Fax: 9594 6284. Place specimen in esky with ice packs.

Skin IF:

Pathologists have requested that only skins be sent to Melbourne Pathology. Record the details in the macroscopic description: what the pot was ;ebelled, size and appearance of biosp and the fact that it will be sent for referal to Melbourne Pathology.

Phone the laboratory on 9287 7700. Do not use Michel's Transport Medium as requested by the Manager.

103 Victoria Parade Collingwood VIC 3066

Renal  and Skin IF:  Are now performed at Eastern Health Pathology

Notes

This biopsy should ideally be taken in the mornning Mon-Fri, so that the specimen can be sent away and tested the same day, otherwise deterioration of the sample may occur and may affect results.

For Skin a minimum 3mm punch biopsy is required for diagnosis. Large biopsies (4mm or greater) may be bisected for immunofluorescence.

Anatomical Pathology do not supply punch biopsy kits.

This biopsy should ideally be taken in the morning Mon-Fri, so that the specimen can be dealt with in the Anatomical Pathology Laboratory otherwise deterioration of the sample may occur and may affect results.

If punch biopsy is taken in the afternoon, the specimen must arrive in the Histology Lab before 5.00. If this is not possible the specimen must be collected into Michel's medium otherwise the deterioration of the specimen may occur which may affect results.

Please contact Anatomical Laboratory on 9895 3477 for collection of Michel's medium.

Skin IF: A 3mm (miniumum diametre) punch biopsy is required for diagnosis. Large biopsies (5mm or greater) may be bisected for IF. Renal IF: A portion of renal core biopsy no smaller than 2 mm is required for diagnosis.

Anatomical Pathology do not supply punch biopsy kits.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Notes

A screening test is positive in approximately 90% of acute IM cases. EBV Serology is required to prove infection when the blood film is suggestive but the IM screen is negative

A screening test is positive in approximately 90% of acute IM cases. EBV Serology is required to prove infection when the blood film is suggestive but the IM screen is negative

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Laboratory

Referred Test

Unassigned

Processing Instructions

Spin and freeze immediately

External Laboratory

Monash Pathology

External Transport Instructions

Transport frozen

Frequency

Twice weekly

As required

Method

Tested at Monash on Tue and Thur

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Notes

Tested at Monash on Tue and Thur

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Laboratory

Referred Test

Biochemistry

Collection & Request Instructions

Fasting Serum, deliver immediately to the laboratory

Fasting Serum, deliver immediately to the laboratory

Processing Instructions

Spin and freeze immediately

Spin and freeze immediately

External Laboratory

St Vincents Hospital

External Transport Instructions

Transport frozen

Transport frozen

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Notes

• Interpretation depends on glucose level, body weight and age.
• Useful in investigation of fasting hypoglycaemia

Fasting serum deliver immediately to the laboratory.

Spin separate and freeze serum.

Interpretation depends on glucose level, body weight and age.

Useful in investigation of fasting hypoglycaemia

Fasting serum deliver immediately to the laboratory.

Spin separate and freeze serum.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

ISOHGT

Processing Instructions

A Blood Group and Antibody screen should be performed by Eastern Health Pathology in conjunction with this request ( in order to check for other antibodies and allow reporting of isohaemagglutinin titre ). Blood samples should be held and transported at 4 deg C. Samples can be held ( at 4 deg C ) for up to 3 days before dispatch.

A Blood Group and Antibody screen should be performed by Eastern Health Pathology in conjunction with this request ( in order to check for other antibodies and allow reporting of isohaemagglutinin titre ). Blood samples should be held and transported at 4 deg C. Samples can be held ( at 4 deg C ) for up to 3 days before dispatch.

Method

Isohaemagglutinin titre may be requested in organ transplant patients as a base line test and at different times post transplant. The test refers to the titre of any of anti A and anti B in serum. Each individual produces different quantities of these antibodies. In Renal transplant patients ( given non ABO matched organs ) a rise from baseline isohaemagglutinin titre may prompt clinical intervention.

Isohaemagglutinin titre may be requested in organ transplant patients as a base line test and at different times post transplant. The test refers to the titre of any of anti A and anti B in serum. Each individual produces different quantities of these antibodies. In Renal transplant patients ( given non ABO matched organs ) a rise from baseline isohaemagglutinin titre may prompt clinical intervention.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Sample is stable at Room Temperature for at least 24 Hours.

JAK2 is for differentiation of reactive VS clonal myeloproliferative disorders.

Collect a separate sample for this test.

This test is not Medicare rebatable. (Cost $44.00 incl GST)

Sample is stable at Room Temperature for at least 24 Hours.

JAK2 is for differentiation of reactive VS clonal myeloproliferative disorders.

Collect a separate sample for this test.

This test is not Medicare rebatable. (Cost $44.00 incl GST)

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Specimen Type

Serum

Plasma

Preferred Container Type

Plain tube no gel

Lithium heparin no gel

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

EDTA

Trace metal tube ( Dark blue )

Collection & Request Instructions

Send to lab immediately at 4^oC.

Send to lab immediately at 4^oC.

External Laboratory

Australian Clinical Labs (formerly Healthscope)

Alfred Hospital

Method

Do not spin.

Do not spin.

Notes

• For specimen types other than blood consult the pathology staff.
• The health ACT requires that this disease be notified to the appropriate health authority.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Laboratory

Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (V.I.D.R.L)

Monash Pathology

Frequency

Weekly

Twice weekly

Method

Contact VIDRL 9342 2670.

Part of Respiratory PCR.

Tested M,W,F

Contact Monash Pathology 9594 4532 or if no answer try Bacteriology 9594 4565 as there is someone rostered 24/7

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Alternative names

Anti-myelin associated glycoprotein antibodies

Request Group

MAGIFA

MAGAB

Frequency

Weekly

Method

Email Melb path before sending at  sendaways.department@mps.com.au to advise the samples are coming.

Email Melb path before sending at  sendaways.department@mps.com.au to advise the samples are coming.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Request Group

MNB

MNBL

External Laboratory

Australian Clinical Labs (formerly Healthscope)

Alfred Hospital

Frequency

Weekly

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

CSF
ACD
EDTA
Swab - white top, plain swab, plastic shaft
Sterile Jar

Swab - white top, plain swab, plastic shaft
Viral Transport Media - Nasopharyngeal
ACD
EDTA
CSF

Optional Container Type

Sterile Jar

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

EDTA

Trace metal tube ( Dark blue )

External Laboratory

Sydney South West Pathology Service(RPA)

Alfred Hospital

Frequency

Weekly

Method

Do not spin.

Do not spin.

Notes

• For specimen types other than blood consult Pathology staff.

For specimen types other than blood consult Pathology staff.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Assay name

Molecular Gene Mutation Pathology - EGFR, BRAF, KRAS, TCR

Molecular Gene Mutation Pathology - EGFR, BRAF, KRAS, TCR, FISH

Alternative names

BRAF, EGFR1, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor, erbB1, HER1, KRAS

BRAF, EGFR1, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor, erbB1, HER1, KRAS, FISH

External Laboratory

Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute

St Vincents Hospital

External Transport Instructions

Paraffin blocks or paraffin embedded tissue sections on uncoated slides.

You can either fax us (FaxNo: +61 3 9656 1460 ) the request form along with a copy of the histology report and we will request the block/slides on your behalf

OR

You can send the completed form with along with:

1. A copy of the pathology report

2. 10 x 5μm unstained tumour sections (and 4 x 3μm on POS CHARGED slides for IHC if required) OR paraffin block.

Paraffin blocks or paraffin embedded tissue sections on uncoated slides.

Method

Send out test.

MOLECULAR PATHOLOGY (Level 1)

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (APA)

7 St Andrews Place

East Melbourne, VIC 3002

FAX: +61 3 9656 1460 Telephone: +61 3 9656

Send out test.

THE DEPARTMENT OF ANATOMICAL PATHOLOGY

LEVEL 2 MAIN BUILDING,

ST VINCENTS HOSPITAL

41 VICTORIA PDE,

FITZROY VIC 3065 Ph.: 03 9231 1049 Fax: 03 9231 4580

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Microbiology Specimen Collection Guide

Preferred Container Type

Swab - red top, plain swab, wooden shaft

Swab - blue top (Amies transport media)

Notes

Use dry swab (not in transport media)

The transit of specimen from Angliss or Maroondah lab and out of working hour collection may cause the prolonged turnaround time

The transit of specimen from Angliss or Maroondah lab and out of working hour collection may cause the prolonged turnaround time

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

• PCR Test.
• Do not remove cap from tubes.

PCR Test.

Do not remove cap from tubes.

Method

Send entire specimen. Aliquots not accepted.

The specimen must be received in Austin Pathology within 48 hrs of collection

Send entire specimen. Aliquots not accepted.

The specimen must be received in Austin Pathology within 48 hrs of collection

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

Not required

Sterile Jar

Collection & Request Instructions

Please contact the laboratory in advance to ensure a muscle biopsy kit is readily available for collection.

Collection is as per kit instructions.

Note: This is an URGENT send out test.

Laboratory hours are 9am - 5pm, Monday - Friday.

Note: This is an URGENT send out test.

Laboratory hours are 9am - 5pm, Monday - Friday.

Processing Instructions

Call the Victorian Neuromuscular Laboratory for kits.

Contact: 9076 5448

Kits are to be stored in the fridge.

Prior to giving the kit to theatre staff, add 2mls of concentrated glutaraldehyde into 18mls of cacodylate buffer (red top container).

Notify the Victorian Neuromuscular Laboratory.

Contact: 9076 5448

External Transport Instructions

This is an URGENT send out test.

Place the specimen in an esky with ice cubes and dispatch immediately.

Method

Call taxi from the lab. Fill out cab voucher logbook.

Send to: Victorian neuromuscular Laboratory Service (VNLS), Alfred Pathology Service, Ground Floor, main Ward Block, Commercial Road, Melbourne VIC 3004.

Contact: 9076 3150

Send to: Victorian Neuromuscular Laboratory Service (VNLS), Alfred Pathology Service, Ground Floor, Main Ward Block, Commercial Road, Melbourne VIC 3004. Contact: 9076 3150

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Preferred Container Type

Sterile Jar
Swab - white top, plain swab, plastic shaft

Sterile Jar
Swab - white top, plain swab, plastic shaft
Swab - blue top (Amies transport media)

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Assay name

Mycoplasma (Genital) Culture

Mycoplasma (Genital)

Alternative names

Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma genitalium, genital kit, STI, STD

Preferred Container Type

Genital swab kit + sterile pot

Genital swab kit + sterile pot
Swab - white top, plain swab, plastic shaft

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Transport Instructions

Packed by certified personnel.

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimen should be collected prior to next dose.

External Laboratory

Sydney South West Pathology Service(RPA)

External Transport Instructions

Packed by certified personnel.

Packed by certified personnel.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Quick guide to notifying conditions in Victoria

https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/Api/downloadmedia/%7BF4C3B4BC-79C7-4BBF-8122-09093D98E2DC%7D

Go to this link for all other information on notifications and forms.

http://ideas.health.vic.gov.au/notifying.asp

Fax form to Dept.of Health Fax no. 1300 651 170

Guide to notifying conditions in Victoria

https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/public-health/infectious-diseases/notification-procedures

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Processing Instructions

Spin,separate and freeze.

Spin,separate and freeze.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

External Laboratory

Pacific Laboratory Medicine Services

External Transport Instructions

Sample must be transported on Dry Ice and packed accoring to IATA regulations by certified personnel.

Lab Contact: 

PaLMS Endocrinology
RNSH

Cameron Wood ph 02 9926 4161

Notes

This test is not Medicare rebateable and must be

transported interstate frozen. The patient must not have

been taking calcium supplements or Vitamin D and must

have hypercalacemia with a suppressed PTH. Test must

be discussed with Chemical Pathologist or Senior Scientist. 

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Fill tube to label and mix by inversion

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Fill tube to label and mix by inversion

Processing Instructions

Specimens for Plasminogen assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection.

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.

A frost-free freezer should not be used.

Specimens for Plasminogen assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection.

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.

A frost-free freezer should not be used.

Notes

Not covered by HIC.  Out of pocket expense to paitient.  Approximate cost $50.00 per test

Not covered by HIC.  Out of pocket expense to paitient.  Approximate cost $50.00 per test

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Transport specimen at Room Temperature to lab

Laboratory

Referred Test

Unassigned

Volume (Adults)

4 mL

Preferred Specimen Type

Plasma

Blood

Collection & Request Instructions

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Fill tube to label and mix by inversion

External Laboratory

Austin Pathology

Method

Platelet free plasma required, double centrifuge before freezing.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

This test is performed on the parents of the affected child.

Samples required are:

Mother : 10 mL in plain tube (no gel), 20 mL in ACD  

Father : 20 mL in ACD, 20 mL in EDTA

Please contact the laboratory before collecting these specimens

This test is performed on the parents of the affected child.

Samples required are:

Mother : 10 mL in plain tube (no gel), 20 mL in ACD  and 2x EDTA

Father : 20 mL in ACD, 2x EDTA

Please contact the laboratory before collecting these specimens, keep samples at room temperature.

Frequency

As required

Date

Field

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Collection & Request Instructions

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 ml citrate tubes sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 ml citrate tubes sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

Processing Instructions

Specimens for Protein C assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection. 

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. 

A frost-free freezer should not be used. 

Specimens for Protein C assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection. 

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. 

A frost-free freezer should not be used. 

Notes

Results not valid if patient receiving warfarin therapy or with acute thrombotic event.

Warfarin falsely lowers Protein C levels.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 ml citrate sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

Results not valid if patient receiving warfarin therapy or with acute thrombotic event.

Warfarin falsely lowers Protein C levels.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion.

Do not use 1 mL citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 ml citrate sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

Date

Field

Changed From

Changed To

Collection & Request Instructions

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 mL citrate tubes sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 mL citrate tubes sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

Processing Instructions

Specimens for Protein S assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection. 

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. 

A frost-free freezer should not be used. 

Specimens for Protein S assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection. 

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months. 

A frost-free freezer should not be used. 

Notes

• Results not valid if patient receiving warfarin therapy or with acute thrombotic event
• Warfarin falsely lowers Protein S level.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 mL citrate tubes sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

Results not valid if patient receiving warfarin therapy or with acute thrombotic event

Warfarin falsely lowers Protein S level.

Fill to label marker and mix by inversion

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

2 x 3.5 mL citrate tubes sufficient for Protein C, Protein S and Antithrombin 3.

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Field

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External Laboratory

Austin Pathology

Monash Pathology

Collection & Request Instructions

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Do not use 1 ml citrate tubes.

Processing Instructions

Specimens for Prothrombin fragments 1 & 2 assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection.

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.

A frost-free freezer should not be used.

Specimens for Prothrombin fragments 1 & 2 assays kept at room temperature, should be centrifuged and tested within 4 hours of time of collection.

If testing is not complete within 4 hours, plasma should be removed from the cells (2 X 1 mL Eppendorf tubes) and frozen at -20 C for up to 2 weeks or -70 C for up to 6 months.

A frost-free freezer should not be used.

Frequency

Monthly

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Frequency

Daily

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Collection & Request Instructions

Pyruvate is very unstable and requires a special tube which is avalable from  the VCGS - Metabolic Laboratory Ph; 8341 6355. A fresh tube must be arranged for each request.

When the specimen is recieved the complete sample must be frozen immediately. Before sending the sample to VCGS, phone the laboatory to inform them it is coming.

Test not available.

For further information please contact chemical pathologist.

Processing Instructions

Write all the necessary collection details on the tube, do not add any other labels as the tube has been pre weighed. Place the pyruvate tube in a cup of ice water to cool for at least 5 mins before collection.

Draw 1 mL  ( 0.7 to 1.3 mL is acceptable ) of blood using a syringe and add this to the tube, mix well, the blood will turn chocolate brown.  TAKE CARE as the preservative in the tube is a corrosive acid. Ensure you are wearing protective gear and use safe practices. If the contents spill, wash the area well with water.

Place the specimen back into the ice water and transport immediately to the laboratory. Ensure a specimen for lactate is taken around the same time.

External Laboratory

Victorian Clinical Genetics Sevices (V.C.G.S) - Royal Childrens Hospital

Date

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Collection & Request Instructions

 PLEASE NOTE : Quantiferon specimens must now be collected using a dedicated Quantiferon Collection Pack containing four tubes (see image above)

Specimen must be tested within 10 hours of collection.

DO NOT refrigerate specimen.

Collect Monday - Friday before 10:00am.

Used to detect latent infection with M.tuberculosis, not for the diagnosis and management of active tuberculosis.

Note: Heparinised blood required, minimum 5 mL

 PLEASE NOTE : Quantiferon specimens must now be collected using a dedicated Quantiferon Collection Pack containing four tubes (see image above)

Specimen must be received at Box Hill by 16:00hrs Monday-Friday

DO NOT refrigerate specimen.

Used to detect latent infection with M.tuberculosis, not for the diagnosis and management of active tuberculosis.

Processing Instructions

If the specimen is collected at Maroondah or Angliss Hospitals, please contact the BH Microbiology Dept (9895 3475) before sending the samples.

Do not centrifuge, refrigerate or freeze specimen.

If the specimen is collected outside of Box Hill Hospital, please contact the BH Microbiology Dept (9895 3475) before sending the samples.

Do not centrifuge, refrigerate or freeze specimen.

External Transport Instructions

When packing for transport, the specimens MUST be packed in a separate transport esky at room temperature.

DO NOT put in an esky with cold packs.

FOR MICROBIOLOGY STAFF

QUANTIFERON GOLD PROCESSING

Quantiferon Gold specimens must be processed as below before sending to VIDRL

Note: Tubes must be incubated within 16 hours of collection.

At 12.00-12.30 mix the Quantiferon Gold tubes by inverting 10 times.

Incubate the tubes UPRIGHT in incubator M120.

Write time of incubation in F8 notes.

The next day at 8 am centrifuge the tubes for 15 mins at 3000g

(Tubes must be incubated for 16 to 24 hours.)

Check tubes for complete separation, respin if necessary.

The tubes are then ready to be packed and sent to VIDRL

Write the incubation time (from F8 notes) on the cover sheet.

NOTE : There is no change to collection times. Store & transport specimens at room temperature.

When packing for transport, the specimens MUST be packed in a separate transport esky at room temperature.

DO NOT put in an esky with cold packs.

FOR MICROBIOLOGY STAFF

Quantiferon Gold specimens must be processed as below before sending to VIDRL

Note:

Tubes must be incubated within 16 hours of collection (keep at room temperature until incubation);

Incubation at 37°C must be for 16-24 hours;

After incubation, tubes must be centrifuged within 3 days (keep at room temperature until centrifugation).

QUANTIFERON GOLD PROCESSING

Processing: to be performed by Microbiology staff

Remix all tubes immediately before incubation by inverting 10 times

Incubate at 37°C, O₂ (M138 incubator). There is a metal rack in the incubator to stand the tubes upright during incubation

For specimens received between 0800 hrs and 1600 hrs, incubate overnight.

For specimens received after 1600 hrs, hold at room temperature and incubate at 0800 hrs the next day (for 24 hours) and sent to VIDRL on the following day (i.e. two days later)

At 0800hr each day, remove specimens from incubator and centrifuge for 15 minutes at 3000 RCF (g). The laboratory assistant will do this on weekdays, Blood Culture Bench Scientist will do this on Saturday and Sunday

After centrifugation, send specimens to VIDRL with the 1230 hrs courier

Specimens that are received in the laboratory, greater than 10 hours after collection will not be tested (KIMMS).

Date

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Collection & Request Instructions

White top tube is the preferred sample.

0.2ml of blood required for each allergen.

Blood collection: still can be done after skin allergy testing.

White top tube is the preferred sample.0.2ml of blood required for each allergen.

Blood collection: still can be done after skin allergy testing.

Omega-5-Gliadin: serum send to Melbourne Pathology

IgG 96 Food Allergy test is not a RAST test  It is performed at  Australian Clinical Labs.This test is NOT rebatable and costs approx  $260.

Processing Instructions

IgG 96 Food Allergy test is not a RAST test  It is performed at  Australian Clinical Labs.This test is NOT rebatable and costs approx  $260.

Omega-5-Gliadin: send to Melborne Pathology

IgG 96 Food Allergy test is not a RAST test  It is performed at  Australian Clinical Labs.This test is NOT rebatable and costs approx  $260.

Alternative names

Allergy IgE Antibodies, Allergy testing, Specific IgE Testing For Allergens

Allergy IgE Antibodies, Allergy testing, Specific IgE Testing For Allergens. SIgE

Alternative names

Allergen Specific IgE

Specific IgE Testing For Allergens, Allergy IgE Antibodies, Allergy testing

Collection & Request Instructions

White top tube is the preferred sample.

0.2ml of blood required for each allergen.

White top tube is the preferred sample.

0.2ml of blood required for each allergen.

Blood collection: still can be done after skin allergy testing.

Processing Instructions

IgG 96 Food Allergy test is not a RAST test  It is performed at Pathlab ( Dorovitch Pathology - intergrative Medicine)  Phone No 88313000 the test is NOT rebatable and costs approx  $270.

Eastern Health Pathology is NOT to act as courier for this test the patient is to be referred to PathLab.

IgG 96 Food Allergy test is not a RAST test  It is performed at  Australian Clinical Labs.This test is NOT rebatable and costs approx  $260.

Frequency

Twice weekly

Notes

• Specify each allergen required.

Specify each allergen required.

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Notes

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

Samples received after hours may have a longer TAT due to other urgent critical pathology testing occuring.

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

Samples received after hours may have a longer TAT due to other urgent critical pathology testing occurring.

Notes

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

Samples received after hours may have a longer TAT due to other urgent critical pathology testing occuring.

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

Samples received after hours may have a longer TAT due to other urgent critical pathology testing occuring.

Notes

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

TAT is a guide only. Minimal staffing levels after hours may mean a longer TAT due to other urgent pathology testing occuring (ie urgent Troponin, urgent transfusions etc).

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

Samples received after hours may have a longer TAT due to other urgent critical pathology testing occuring.

Method

All tests for respiratory virus PCR are considered urgent and must be delivered to the laboratory ASAP. Overnight specimens collected at BHH must be delivered to Microbiology by 7 a.m. Monday-Sunday.

If ICU/Oncology patients tested  Flu A/B and RSV negative on GeneXpert will be referred to Monash for respiratory virus panel. This includes Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus, Respiratory Syncitial Virus, Picornavirus (RV/EV), Parainfluenza viruses 1,2 and 3, Adenovirus, Human Metapneumovirus, Bordetella pertussis, Bordetella parapertussis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Legionella species, Chlamydiaceae.

The following specimens will be referred for testing-

Sputum, Bronchial Washings, Bronchoalveolar Lavages

Specimens for Respiratory Multiplex PCR will be referred to Monash Molecular Laboratory

Contact Monash Pathology 9594 4532 or if no answer try Bacteriology 9594 4565 as there is someone rostered 24/7

All tests for respiratory virus PCR are considered urgent and must be delivered to the laboratory ASAP.

ICU/Oncology patients testing negative for Flu A/B and RSV  will be referred to Monash for respiratory virus panel. This includes Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus, Respiratory Syncitial Virus, Picornavirus (RV/EV), Parainfluenza viruses 1,2 and 3, Adenovirus, Human Metapneumovirus, Bordetella pertussis, Bordetella parapertussis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Legionella species, Chlamydiaceae.

The following specimens will be referred for testing-

Sputum, Bronchial Washings, Bronchoalveolar Lavages

Specimens for Respiratory Multiplex PCR will be referred to Monash Molecular Laboratory

Contact Monash Pathology 9594 4532 or if no answer try Bacteriology 9594 4565 as there is someone rostered 24/7

Notes

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at BHH and MH.

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

TAT is a guide only. Minimal staffing levels after hours may mean a longer TAT due to other urgent pathology testing occuring (ie urgent Troponin, urgent transfusions etc).

Notes

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory