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Pathology test-list for-christian_13022019
1. Pathology Test List
Below is a list of Pathology tests available, in alphabetical order. For further details please see individual
department test lists.
2.
3. Pathology Test List
Dept Name BD
Vacutainer
Reference range Maximum
TAT
(Working
days or
weeks)
Notes
Immuno Acetyl Choline E
Receptor Antibody
(AChR)
pos/neg and
interpretative
comment given
21 days
This assay is
referred to
Immunology
Laboratory,
Oxford University
Hospital
Biochem ACTH
(adrenocorticotrophic
hormone)
0 -40ug/L
Interpret with cortisol
results from sample
taken simultaneously
(gold tube)
14-21 days
Unstable
hormone; blood
must arrive in
laboratory with
15 minutes.
Notify
Department in
advance.
Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Haem Activated Protein C
Resistance
> 120 seconds 14 days Contact
Consultant
Haematologist (
part of
thrombophilia
screen)
Biochem Acylcarnitine Guthrie card
Bloodspot free
carnitine 10.3 - 54.7
umol/L. Individual
interpretation
provided on report.
14-21 days
Referral Test to
Biochemical
Genetics Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Biochemical Genetics
Unit Pathology
Sciences Building
Southmead Hospital
Micro Adenovirus Antibody
Screen
5 days Adequate clinical
information must
be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
4. 14 days into
illness).
Micro Adenovirus PCR 5 days
Immuno Adrenal Gland
Antibody
POS/NEG
14-21 days
This assay is
referred to the
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield
Biochem AFP
(alpha-fetoprotein)
Adults (19yr+) 1-7
kiU/L
*see Patient report
for specific age
related ranges.
24 hours Caliper study
values for
children and
expected values
from kit insert for
adults
Used in
monitoring
patients with
non-
seminomatous
germ cell
tumours and in
screening and
diagnosis of
hepatocellular
carcinoma
Immuno Alpha-3-Ganglionic
ACHR antibodies
(A3ACR)
POS/NEG with
values as free text
comment
21 days This assay is
referred to
Immunology
Laboratory,
Oxford University
Hospital
Biochem Albumin Adult 35-50 g/L *see
Patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Source of range
– Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Albumin:
Creatinine Ratio
Universal early
am
F < 3.5, M <2.5
mg/mmol
24 hours It is not
appropriate to
perform this test
on a urine which
tests positive for
protein using a
"dipstick"
Biochem Alcohol (ethanol) Units mg/dL
NB UK legal driving limit
80mg/100mL (17.4
mmol/L)
24 hours UK Legal driving
limit for blood
ethanol is 80
mg/100ml
Serum Ethanol:
To convert
mg/100ml to
mmol/L = x 0.216
Biochem Aldosterone
Units: pmol/L
*See patient report
for specific gender &
age related ranges
14- 21 days
Measure with
renin to
determine
renin:aldosterone
ratio.
Unstable
hormone; blood
must arrive in
laboratory with
5. 30 minutes.
Notify
Department in
advance.
Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem Aldosterone:Renin Ald:Ren ratio
< 91 pmol/mIU
effectively excludes
Conns.
14- 21 days
Unstable
hormone; blood
must arrive in
laboratory with
30 minutes.
Notify
Department in
advance.
Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem ALP (alkaline
phosphatase)
age related (may be
over 300U/L in
infants and children)
24 hours Age-related
reference ranges
quoted on report
forms. Higher in
children and in
the third trimester
of pregnancy.
Source of range
– Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem ALP Isoenzymes Interpretative
comment given
28 days Contact Duty
Biochemist.
Referred Test.
Immunmo Alpha-Amino-3-
Hydroxy-5-Methyl-4-
Isoxazolepropionic
Acid Receptor
(AMPA)
NEG
POS with clinical
interpretive comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Institute of
Molecular
Medicine, Oxford
Biochem Alpha-1-Antitrypsin 0.9-2.0 g/L 24 hours Contact Duty
Biochemist if
phenotype
required.
An acute phase
response may
cause the
plasma
6. concentration of
alpha-1-
antitrypsin to rise
and mask
deficiency.
Biochem Alpha-Feto Protein 1-10 kU/L 24 hours Used in
monitoring
patients with
non-
seminomatous
germ cell tumour
and in screening
and diagnosis of
hepatocellular
carcinoma
Biochem ALT (alanine
transaminase)
Adult 1-55 U/L
*see Patient report
for specific age
related ranges.
24 hours. Source of range
–
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults.
Biochem Aluminium <0.37 nmol/L
14- 21 days
Referral Test
toTrace Element
Laboratory,
Medical
Biochemistry,
University
Hospital of Wales
Source of
reference range -
Trace Element
Laboratory, Medical
Biochemistry,
University Hospital of
Wales
Biochem Amikacin Interpretative
comment given
7 days Referral Test to
Antimicrobial
Reference
Laboratory,
Department of
Microbiology,
Southmead
Hospital
Biochem Amino Acids
lithium heparin
Interpretative
comment given
7-14 days Referral Test to
Biochemical
Genetics Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
Biochem Amino Acids (urine) Universal rand
om
Interpretative
comment given
14 days Referral Test to
Biochemical
Genetics Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
A plasma sample
is the specimen
of choice for first
line Amino Acids
investigation.
7. 24 hour
specimens are
rarely indicated
for generalised
screening.
Please contact
laboratory for
more information.
Biochem Amiodarone
0.5 -2.0 mg/L 14- 21 days
Measurement of
levels hardly ever
required; patients
on amiodarone
treatment require
regular
monitoring of
TFTs and renal
function.
Referral Test to
Toxicology
Laboratory, The
Academic Centre
Llandough
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Toxicology Laboratory
, The Academic Centre
Llandough Hospital
Biochem Ammonia > 16+ 18-72 *see
Patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Unstable
compound. Blood
must arrive in the
laboratory within
15 minutes, on
ice. Notify
Department in
advance.
Pathology
Harmony
reference
intervals for
children and
expected values
in kit insert for
adults
Micro Amoebic Antibodies
Screen
14 days This test is
referred to the
Hospital for
tropical
Diseases,
London
Biochem
Amphetamine Urine NEG/POS (500 ug/L
cut-off)
7 days
Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Biochem Amylase Range u/L. *see
Patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Source of range-
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults.
8. Biochem Androstenedione Units: nmol/L
*See patient report
for specific gender &
age related ranges
14- 21 days
Referral Test to
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem Angiotensin
Converting Enzyme
≥16yrs: 8-52 U/L
14- 21 days
Referral Test to
Department of
Chemical
Pathology, Bristol
Royal Infirmary
Source of
reference range -
Department of
Chemical Pathology,
Bristol Royal Infirmary
Request form
must state
whether patients
are receiving
ACE inhibitors.
ACE inhibitors
will result in
decreased
activity for up to
12 hours post
dose
Blood
Bank
Antenatal Antibody
Titre follow-up
Pink
1-4 days TAT dependent
on urgency
Micro Antenatal Virus
Screen
3 days Patient must be
counselled.
Micro Antenatal Virus
Screen With HIV
5 days Patient must be
counselled.
Immuno Anti - Cardiac Muscle
Antibody
NEG
POS with clinical
interpretive comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Protein reference
Unit, Sheffield
Immuno Anticardiolipin
Antibody
Interpretative
comment given
10 days
Immuno Anti Endomysial (IgA)
Antibodies
POS/NEG 14 days
Immuno Anti Endomysial
(IgG) Antibodies
POS/NEG 14 days Available for
?coeliac with
confirmed IgA
deficiency
Immuno Anti-Hu Antibodies POS/NEG 14 days
Biochem Anti Mullerian
Hormone (AMH)
Units: pmol/L 7days
Source of range for
Male and paediatric
Beckman Test kit
9. *See patient report
for specific age &
gender related
ranges
insert
Source of Adult female
range previous AMH
kit also from Beckman.
Immuno Anti-Neutrophil
Antibody
or gold top
Interpretative
comment given
14 days
Immuno Anti-Neutrophil
Cytoplasmic
Antibodies
POS/NEG 7 days
Immuno Anti-Phospholipase
AZ Receptor (Anti-
PLA2R)
14-21 days
Referred test to
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield
Immuno Anti-Purkinje Cell
Antibodies
POS/NEG 14 days
Immuno Anti-Skin BM
Antibody
POS/NEG 14 days
Immuno Anti-Skin ICS
Antibody
POS/NEG 14 days
Immuno Anti-Sperm
Antibodies (blood)
or gold top
Interpretative
comment given
8 – 12 weeks This test is
referred to
Southmead
Hospital, Bristol
Haem Antithrombin III 80-120 % activity 14 days Contact
Consultant
Haematologist (
part of
thrombophilia
screen)
Immuno Anti TSH Receptor
Antibody
POS/NEG 14 days
Hcoag APTT Ratio ratio 1.5-2.5 24 hours Same bottle as
APTT.
Immuno Aquaporin-4
antibodies (AQP4)
POS/NEG with
values as free text
comment
21 days This assay is
referred to
Immunology
Laboratory,
Oxford University
Hospital
Biochem Arsenic (Blood) 0 - 0.13 umol/L
14- 21 days
Referral Test to
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Cyto Ascitic Fluid
(malignant cells)
25ml white top
universal 5 days*
*>50%
reported
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
10. within 5 days
- more
complex
cases may
take longer.
Cytopathology
section.
Micro
Aspirate
Nasopharyngeal -
respiratory viruses
Conical
Aspiration
Tube
1 day Test covers RSV,
Influenza A & B,
Adenovirus and
Parafluenza.
Bacterial culture
on neonates
Biochem AST (aspartate
transminase)
5-34 u/L Adult.
*see Patient report
for specific age
related ranges.
24 hours Affected by
Haemolysis.
Source of range -
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults.
Immuno Autoantibody Screen POS/NEG
14-21 days
Atypical or rare
patterns may be
sent to the
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield if
confirmation of
rare/atypical
patterns is
required
Haem Autohaemolysis -
Red cells
x2
edta
x2 Lithium Hep
Interpretative
comment given
3 days Contact
Consultant
Haematologist.
Mortuary Autopsy Up to 3 months
dependant on the
material retained.
Consent
required. See
Anatomical
Pathology
(Mortuary
section)/Requesti
ng a consented
autopsy.
Immuno Basal Ganglia
antibodies (ABGA)
NEG
POS with values as
free text comment
and clinical
interpretive comment
21 days This assay is
referred to
Institute of
Neurology,
Queen Square,
London
Molecular BCR/ABC1 t(9;22)
qualitative BCR/ABC1
in CML/ALL
Interpretative
comment given
14 days Must arrive in
laboratory as
soon as possible
Molecular BCR/ABC1 t(9;22)
quantitative BCR/ABC1
monitoring
trend of patient's
past results given
21 days Must arrive in
laboratory as
soon as possible
Immuno Bence Jones Protein
(urine)
Universal earl
y am
Interpretative
comment given
5 days
Biochem
Benzodiazepine Urine NEG/POS (200 ug/L
cut-off)
7 days
Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
11. Screen
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Biochem Beta-2 Microglobulin 0.1 – 2.2 for all ages
and sexes
14 days Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical
Chemistry Royal
Devon and
Exeter Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Department of Clinical
Chemistry Royal
Devon and Exeter
Hospital
Immuno Beta-2-Glycoprotein
antibodies (B2GP1)
Unit- U/ml
NEG
POS with clinical
interpretive comment
14-21 days
Referral test to
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield
Source of
reference range-
PRU, Sheffield
Biochem Beta-OH Butyrate
(3-OH Butyrate)
or
Fasting levels 0.03
- 0.3 mmol/L.
7 -14 days
Raised in
hypoglycaemia
when insulin is
suppressed.
Referral Test to
Biochemical
Genetics Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Biochemical Genetics
Unit Pathology
Sciences Building
Southmead Hospital
Biochem Bicarbonate (CO2) 22-29 mmol/L 24 hours Specimens from
GP surgeries are
not routinely
tested, add on
requests for this
test are not
possible.
Source of range-
Harmony reference
intervals
Biochem Bile Acids 0-14 umol/L 1-3 days Sometimes
helpful in
management of
obstetric
cholestatsis,
RCOG guidelines
available.
Referral Test to
Clinical
Chemistry
Department,
Treliske Hospital
Source of
12. reference range -
Clinical Chemistry
Department, Treliske
Hospital
Micro Bilharzia Antibody
Screen
14 days This test is
referred to the
Hospital for
tropical
Diseases,
London
Biochem Total Bilirubin <21 umol/L 24 hours Source of range--
Caliper study values
for <14 days of age
and expected values
from kit insert for >14
days of age.
Biochem Bilirubin (CSF)
"xanthochromia"
Universal –
Protect from
light.
Minimum
Specimen
Volume 350ul.
No units
Interpretative
comment given.
2hrs Must be an
appropriate test
request,
>12hours post
event, in patients
with Negative CT
scan. Deliver to
lab by hand
protected from
light.
Minimum
Specimen
Volume 350ul.
Cruickshank A,
Auld P, Beetham
R, Burrows G,
Egner W,
Holbrook I, Keir
G, Lewis E, Patel
D, Watson I,
White P. Annals
of Clinical
Biochemistry
(2008); 45: 238-
244. Revised
national
guidelines for
analysis of
cerebrospinal
fluid for bilirubin
in suspected
subarachnoid
haemorrhage.
Biochem Bilirubin
(direct/conjugated)
Adult (19+ years) 0-
8.6 umol/l
*See patient report
for paediatric ranges
24 hours Performed to
help elucidate
cause of jaundice
when total
bilirubin raised.
Source of range -
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults
Biochem Unconjugated
Bilirubin
No units 24 hours Calculated from
bilirubin and
conjugated
bilirubin
13. Micro Blood Culture Blood Culture
Set
Interpretative
comment given
Telephoned
same day if
positive; 36
hours if neg
ative.
Avoid covering or
defacing barcode
on bottle label.
Results
telephoned on
same day if
positive
Biochem BNP Units ng/L
BNP is
recommended for
ruling out Heart
Failure, but not to
establish diagnosis.
The upper limit of
normal in the non-
acute condition is 35
ng/L. A serum BNP
level <100ng/L in an
untreated patient
makes diagnosis of
heart failure unlikely.
Refer patients with
suspected heart
failure to have
transthoracic
Doppler 2D
echocardiography
for BNP level
between 100-400
ng/L within 6 weeks
and refer within 2
weeks for level >400
ng/L.
*see Patient report
for specific age
related ranges.
4 hours Urgent sample
must be
processed within
4 hours.
Haem Bone Marrow
Examination
Interpretative
comment given
14 days Only performed
by Haematology
medical staff.
Micro Bordetella Pertussis
Culture
Perinasal
Swab/Wire
Stem
10 days
Micro Bordetella Pertussis
Serology
14 days This test is
referred to the
HPA RSIL,
Colindale,
London
Micro Borrelia Burgdorferi
Antibody Screen
4 days
Cyto Breast Cyst Fluid 25ml white top
universal 5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5 days
- more
complex
cases may
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
14. take longer.
Cyto FNA samples Plastic slide
carrier and/or
Cytospin
collection Fluid
in 10 ml
conical tube
and/or
Saline solution
in 10 ml
conical tube
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5 days
- more
complex
cases may
take longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
Cyto Bronchial Brushings
(malignant cells)
Plastic slide
carrier and/or
in Cytospin
collection Fluid
in 10 ml
conical tube.
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5 days
- more
complex
cases may
take longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
Cyto Bronchial Lavage
(malignant cells)
25ml white top
universal
containing
equal amount
of Cytospin
Collection fluid
(obtainable
from Cytology
Department
52355)
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5 days
- more
complex
cases may
take longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
Micro Bronchial Washings -
Culture
Sterile plastic
universal
3 days
Micro Bronchial Washings -
Pneumocystis
Sterile plastic
universal
3 days Arrange with
Consultant
Microbiologist
prior to taking
sample.
Micro Brucella Antibody
Screen
7-14 days This test is
referred to the
HPA Brucella
Reference
Laboratory,
Liverpool
Biochem
Buprenorphine -
Subutex (Urine) Universal
Interpretative
comment given.
The cut-offs used to
define positive
results are given
below;
Positive
Buprenorphin
e
>5 ug/L
14 days
Source of range
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Biochem C - Reactive Protein
(CRP)
Negative < 5 mg/l 24 hours Reference range
from kit insert
Immuno C1 Esterase Inhibitor 0.1 - 5 mg/l 5 days
15. Immuno C1 Esterase Inhibitor
Function
< 40% abnormal;
41-67%=equivocal >
68% =normal
5 days
Biochem CA 19-9 0-37 kU/L 3-4 days Useful in the
follow up of
pancreatic
cancer and in
differential
diagnosis of an
ovarian mass.
Not proven use
in screening.
Expected values
from kit insert
Biochem CA125 0-35 kU/L 24 hours Useful in follow
up of ovarian
cancer. Limited
role in screening.
Source of
reference range
is kit insert
Biochem Caeruloplasmin
Units: g/L
*See patient report
for specific gender &
age related ranges
14 days
Useful as a
second-line test
in the
investigation of
liver disease,
together with the
measurement of
copper.
Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical
Chemistry
Northern General
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Department of Clinical
Chemistry Northern
General Hospital
Biochem
Calcitonin
On ice
SSTx2
F < 5.5, M <18.9
ng/L
28 days Unstable
hormone. Blood
must arrive in the
laboratory within
15 minutes, on
ice. Notify
Department in
advance.
Referral Test to
The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical
Biochemistry &
Medical
Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
The SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
16. Charing Cross
Hospital
Biochem Calcium Adult 2.20-2.5
mmol/L. *see Patient
report for specific
age related ranges.
24 hours Suggest use
corrected value
to interpret
calcium status
unless marked
change in
albumin
concentration.
Source of range -
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals for
children and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Biochem Adjusted Calcium
Adult 2.10 – 2.55
mmol//L
*see patient report
for specific age
related ranges
24hrs Calculated from
calcium and
albumin
concentration
Molecular Calreticulin (CALR)
exon 9 gene
mutations in MPV
Interpretive
comment given
14 days
Micro Campylobacter
Antibody Screen
14 days This test is
referred to the
HPA, Preston
Biochem Cannabis Universal
NEG/POS (50 ug/L
cut-off)
7 days
Source of range -
European
Workplace
Testing Threshold
Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Biochem Carbamazepine
Pre-dose
4-12 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section
Micro Carbapenemase
resistant
enterobacteriacae
(CRE) screen
Faeces in sterile
plastic universal +
spoon
3 days
Biochem Carboxyhaemoglobin
Carboxyhaemoglobi
n reference range is
0 – 2.0%
Heavy smokers may
have levels in
excess of 6.0%
24hrs
"RC Baselt: Carbon
monoxide. RC Baselt
Disposition of toxic
drugs and chemical in
man. 10th ed 2014
Biomedical
Publications Seal
Beach, CA 354-357"
Biochem Carcinoembryonic
Antigen (CEA)
0-5 ug/L 24 hours Useful in follow-
up of colorectal
and some other
cancers. Very
limited role in
diagnosis.
Expected values
17. from kit insert.
Biochem Carnitine Profile Interpretative
comment given
4-6 weeks Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical
Chemistry and
Newborn
Screening
Sheffield
Children’s NHS
Trust
Biochem Anti-CCP Negative <20
Weak positive 20 - 39
Moderate positive 40 -59
Strong positive >=60
7 days Test referred
away.
Royal Devon and
Exeter Hospital
(Roche assay)
Cerebrospinal Fluid - see CSF
If sending CSF to more than one Department please send adequate fluid and separate request
forms
Cyto Cervical Cytology ThinPrep LBC
container
Service
transferred to
Royal Cornwall
Hospital, Truro
RCHT enquiry
line 01872
252550
Micro Chickenpox Antibody
Screen
5 days If from contact
result available
same day
Micro Chickenpox Antigen
Screen
Send swab of
lesion in UTM (Red
liquid Medium)
2 days Collect fluid from
outer edge of the
vesicle. Contact
laboratory on
52376.
Molecular Chimerism (post-
stem cell transplant)
Interpretive
comment given
7 days
Referred test:
Sent to NHSBT,
Filton
Micro Chlamydia Antigen
PCR Test
Chlamydia
Transport Medium
3 days
First catch urine
sample or self-
taken
vulvovaginal
swab.
Use white topped
sterile universal
for Urine
samples (Boric
acid containers
are not suitable).
Use white topped
sterile universal
for Urine
samples (Boric
acid containers
are not suitable)
18. Micro Chlamydia Group
Antibody Screen
5 days Adequate clinical
information must
be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
14 days into
illness).
Micro Chlamydia
Trachomatis
Antibody Screen
14 days This test is only
indicated for
cases of infertility
/ PID
Biochem Chloride 95-108 mmol/L 24 hours Source of range
- Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Cholesterol Units mmol/L
Interpret result
with reference
to current
clinical
guidelines for
prevention of
vascular
disease
24 hours Source of range-
Caliper reference
interval for under
19yrs. (1.1 – 4.4
mmol/L)
Biochem Cholesterol/HDL
ratio
No units 24 hours Calculated from
cholesterol and
HDL
Biochem Cholinesterase Interpretative
comment given
12 weeks Useful in
investigation of
suxamethonium
sensitivity.
Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical
Biochemistry
Cholinesterase
Investigation Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
Biochem Chromogranin A and
B (GAWK)
Chromogranin
A: <60 pmol/L
Chromogranin
B: <150 pmol/L
4-6 weeks
Unstable
proteins. Blood
must arrive in
laboratory within
15 minutes, on
ice. Notify
department in
advance.
Referral Test to
The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical
19. Biochemistry &
Medical
Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
The SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Biochem Ciclosporin
(cyclosporin)
Trough/predose
Units ug/L
No reference
range given.
72hrs See Therapeutic
Drug monitoring
Section.
Measured
Monday,
Wednesday and
Friday
Hcoag Coagulation factor
assays
2 samples required
50-150 % 7 days Contact
laboratory prior
to taking samples
- Ext.33244 or
33245
Hcoag Coagulation factor
inhibitor
2 samples required
7 days Contact
laboratory prior
to taking samples
- Ext.33244 or
33245
Hcoag Coagulation screen Interpretative
comment given
24 hours
Biochem Cocaine Urine
NEG/POS
(300 ug/L cut-
off)
7 days
Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Blood
Bank
Cold agglutinins
Pink
48 hours Requires
overnight
incubation
Immuno Collagen Type II
antibodies (COLLA2)
NEG
POS with
clinical
interpretive
comment
14-21 days Referred test to
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield
Histo Colorectal Bowels 3-14 days Reference
should be made
to special notes
in histopathology
section. Most
specimens are
reported within
the 3-14 days
period. Complex
or specimens
that need more
consideration or
20. additional special
investigations will
take longer to
report.
Immuno Complement C3 &
C4
Units g/L
*see Patient
report for
specific age
related ranges.
24 hours Source of range -
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults.
Immuno Contactin-
Associated Protein &
LG/1 Leucine-Rich
Glioma Inactivated 1
(CASPR)
NEG
POS with
clinical
interpretive
comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Institute of
Molecular
Medicine, Oxford
Biochem Copper
Trace Elements
11-25.1 umol/L 24 hours R.D. Eastman;
Biochemical Values in
Clinical Medicine.
Histo Copper (Dry weight) Dry container 6 weeks Annotate 'DRY
COPPER
WEIGHT
REQUEST' on
request
form. Place
specimen dry in
wide mouth
container. DO
NOT ADD
FORMALIN.
Specimen sent to
another centre
for testing.
Biochem Copper (urine) Plain 24 hour 0-1.1 µmol/24
hr
2 days R.D. Eastman;
Biochemical Values in
Clinical Medicine.
Biochem Cortisol No reference
range quoted.
Units: nmol/L
24 hrs Values > 440
nmol/L make
adrenal failure
improbable.
This value was
derived in house
as part of the
verification of the
assay. Contact
duty biochemist
to discuss.
Biochem Cortisol (urine) Plain 24 hour <165 nmol/24h 3-4 weeks Referral Test to
South
Manchester
Pathology
Services,
Wythenshawe
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe Hospital
Micro Coxiella Burnetti
Antibody Screen 14- 21 days
Adequate clinical
information must
be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
21. are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
14 days into
illness).
Micro Coxsackie Virus
Antibody Screen
7-14 days
Biochem C-Peptide
Units: pmol/L
*See patient
report for
specific gender
& age related
ranges
28 days
Referral Test to
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem Creatine Kinase F 25-200 U/L
M 40-320 U/L
24 hours Marker of
skeletal and
cardiac muscle
damage. Collect
sample at least 8
hours after
suspected MI.
Source of range-
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Creatinine Units umol/L
*see Patient
report for
specific age
related ranges.
24 hours Source of range -
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults.
Biochem Creatinine Clearance
(urine)
Plain 24 hour M 85–125
F 75-115
ml/minute
Not generally
available - refer
to eGFR
associated with
serum creatinine
report or contact
Duty Biochemist
to discuss
Reference range
sourced:
Baseline renal
function
screening. Am J
Cardiol. 2006
Sep
18;98(6A):21K-
26K. Epub 2006
22. Feb 20
Blood
Bank
Crossmatch
Pink
1-2 hours Results will take
longer depending
on the nature of
the antibodies
Immuno Cryoglobulin 10 days Contact lab to
arrange this test-
flask required for
collection-cannot
be done Friday
after 12.00
Micro Cryptococcal
Antigen Detection
14 days This test is
referred to HPA
SW Laboratory,
Bristol
Molecular CSF3R gene
mutation in CNL
Interpretive
comment given
28 days This test is
referred to
Southmead,
Bristol or WRGL
Micro CSF - 14.3.3 & S100
for CJD
Sterile plastic
universal
14.3.3 -
normally
negative S100
<0.41 ng/ml
7 -14 days Stored frozen in
microbiology.
Neurology to
arrange transport
to CJD
Surveillance Unit
(Edinburgh) for
testing. Please
note blood
contamination
invalidates test.
Biochem CSF - AFP Plain Universal No reference
range quoted
Units: kiU/L
24hrs ‘This assay has
not been
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem CSF - Bilirubin See Bilirubin
Micro CSF - Culture Sterile plastic
universal
2 days
Haem CSF - Cytospin Plain Universal 7 days State origin of
fluid on request
form
Biochem CSF - Ferritin Plain Universal No reference
range quoted.
Units: ug/L
24hrs ‘This assay has
not been
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem CSF - Glucose Grey/yellow paed No reference
range quoted.
Units: mmol.
Interpret in
relation to
plasma
glucose taken
simultaneously
24 hours ‘This assay has
not been
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem CSF – hCG Plain Universal No reference
range quoted.
Units IU/L
24 hours
Biochem CSF Lactate Plain Universal 1.1-2.4 mmol/L 24hrs Adult reference
interval from
previous Roche
assay.
23. ‘This assay has
not been
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem CSF LDH Plain Universal No reference
range quoted
Units: U/L
24hrs ‘This assay has
not been
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Cyto CSF - Malignant
cells
25ml white top
universal
5 days*
*>50%
reported within
5 days - more
complex cases
may take
longer.
Arrange with lab
prior to sending
on ext 52355. If
an out of hours
request,
refrigerate
overnight before
delivery to the
department
between 9 and
10 am the
following
morning. Contact
on-call BMS via
the Hospital
Switchboard to
inform them CSF
has been taken.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section. If
sending CSF to
more than one
department,
please send
adequate
amounts of fluid
and separate
request forms
appropriate to
the tests
required.
Micro CSF - Microscopy Sterile plastic
universal
Same day
Immuno CSF - Oligoclonal
bands
Universal 7 days Send blood
sample (gold)
simultaneously
Immuno CSF Oligoclonal
Bands
(accompanying
blood sample)
Universal 10 days Must always be
sent with the
CSF Oligoclonal
bands request
Micro CSF - PCR Sterile plastic
universal
3 days Performed on
suspected viral
meningitis
(Enterovirus,
Herpes or
Varicella Zoster,
Mumps) or
suspected
Meningococcal
24. Meningitis.
Biochem CSF – Protein Plain Universal 0.15-0.45 g/L 24hrs Reference range
sourced: Tietz
textbook of
Clinical
Chemistry
Biochem CSF - Tau Protein
(Beta 2 Transferrin)
Universal POS/NEG 21 days May be useful to
differentiate CSF,
in which it is
present, from
nasal fluid.
Referral Test to
Sheffield NGH
Protein
Reference Unit,
Northern General
Hospital,
Sheffield
Molecular Cyclin D1 Over
Expression
Interpretative
comment given
14 days Must arrive in
laboratory as
soon as possible
Cyto Cyst Fluids 25ml white top
universal 5 days*
*>50%
reported within
5 days - more
complex cases
may take
longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
Cytogenetics
x2 edta
x2 Lithium Hep
Interpretive
comment given
28 days Cytogenetics (
karyotying,
chromosome
studies) - It is the
responsibility of
the requesting
clinician to
ensure such
samples
reach their
destination
Micro Cytomegalovirus
Antibody Screen
(IgG/IgM)
3 days Adequate clinical
information must
be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
14 days into
illness).
Micro Cytomegalovirus
PCR Detection
3 days
As part of
Pathology's Servi
ce Improvement
25. programme, the
CMV/Epstein-
Barr Virus (EBV)
molecular testing
service will
transfer to new
Abbott
equipment/
reagents as from
Monday 17 July.
Validation testing
has shown that
CMV results are
comparable, but
EBV results are
on average
slightly lower
than the current
method (by
approximately
0.3 Log10 value).
Results will
continue to be
reported in IU/ml
format. It is also
requested that
separate EDTA
tubes are
supplied for each
test.
Haem Cytospin Analysis
(CSF or aspirates)
Universal 7 days State origin of
fluid on request
form
Hcoag D-Dimer <0.5 FEU
mg/ml
24 hours
Biochem Dehydroepi-
androsterone
Sulphate (DHEAS) Units: umol/L
*See patient
report for
specific gender
& age related
ranges
7 -14 days
Referral Test to
Clinical
Chemistry
Department,
Treliske Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Clinical Chemistry
Department, Treliske
Hospital
Hcoag DIC screen 24 hours Includes
fibrinogen and D-
dimer
Biochem Digoxin
6-10 hours Post-
dose
0.5-1.0 ug/L 24 hours Samples for
Digoxin should
be drawn at least
6 and preferably
18 hours post-
dose. Target
26. range in heart
failure, 0.5-1.0
ug/L.
Source of range
– Pathology
Harmony
reference
intervals
Blood
Bank Direct Coombs Test
(DCT)
Pink
1-2 hours
Biochem Downs Screen Interpretative
comment given
7 – 14 days Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical
Chemistry Royal
Devon and
Exeter Hospital
Refer to
Obstetric
Department for
specific
guidance.
Immuno Ear Shock Protein-
Anti-68KD (HSP-70)
autoantibodies
(EAR)
NEG
POS with
clinical
interpretive
comment
21 days
Purchase Order
required: This
test can only be
ordered by the
Immunology
clinicians &/or in
discussion senior
BMS in
Immunology.
Referred test to
Cambridge Life
Sciences
Micro EBV PCR 3 days
As part of
Pathology's Servi
ce Improvement
programme, the
CMV/Epstein-
Barr Virus (EBV)
molecular testing
service will
transfer to new
Abbott
equipment/
reagents as from
Monday 17 July.
Validation testing
has shown that
CMV results are
comparable, but
27. EBV results are
on average
slightly lower
than the current
method (by
approximately
0.3 Log10 value).
Results will
continue to be
reported in IU/ml
format. It is also
requested that
separate EDTA
tubes are
supplied for each
test.
Biochem eGFR No reference
range quoted.
Units:
ml/min/1.73m2
24 hours Calculated from
serum creatinine
- reported as part
of the renal
profile.
Estimated GFR
(eGFR) should
be multiplied by
1.159 for patients
of Arfican-
Caribbean origin.
eGFR is now
calculated using
CKD-EPI
equation.
Molecular EGFR (epidermal
growth factor
receptor) gene
muations in NSCLC
Tissue provided by
Cellular pathology
Interpretive
comment given
7 days
Biochem Profile 1 Electrolytes
(serum)
See individual
test details.
24 hours Term used
inappropriately to
indicate a
request for
sodium,
potassium,
creatinine and
bicarbonate
Biochem Electrolytes (urine) Plain 24 hours Random sample
often helpful.
Contact Duty
Biochemist to
discuss if
required
Histo Electron Microscopy 4.0% gluteral-
dehyde
28 days Arrange with the
Histopathology
laboratory prior
to taking sample-
tel extn 52362
Immuno Endothelial Cell
Antibodies (ECAB)
NEG
POS with
clinical
14-21 days
Referred test to
Protein
Reference Unit,
28. interpretive
comment
Sheffield
Micro Enterobius Sellotape
impression
1 day See Threadworm
microscopy
Immuno Eosinophilic Cationic
Protein (EOCP)
Reported as
values; POS
with clinical
interpretive
comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield.
Biochem Epilim (valproate)
Pre-dose
24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section. Pre-
dose sample
required
Micro Epstein-Barr Virus
IgG Screen
3 days
Micro Epstein-Barr Virus
IgM Screen
3 days
Biochem Erythropoietin
5 – 25U/L (for
an individual
with a Hb
within limits).
7- 14 days
Referral Test to
Clinical
Biochemistry,
King’s College
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Clinical Biochemistry,
King’s College
Hospital
Biochem Ethanol nb legal driving
limit
80mg/100mL
(17.4 mmol/L)
24 hours
Immuno Extractable Nuclear
Antigen Screen
POS/NEG 14 days
Immuno Extractable Nuclear
Antigens Type
POS/NEG 21 days
Hcoag Factor IX assay 50-150% 7 days Contact
laboratory prior
to taking samples
- Ext.33244 or
33245
Molecular Factor V Leiden &
Prothrombin gene
mutations
Interpretative
comment given
14 days
Haem Factor VIII Assay 50-150% <7 days Contact
laboratory prior
to taking samples
- Ext 33244 or
33245. This test
is referred to
Oxford
Haemophilia and
Thrombosis
Centre.
Biochem Faecal Calprotectin Blue Faecal pot Units: ug/g
<45 ug/g -
Calprotectin
within
14 days Refer to NICE
guidance DG11 and
any locally developed
guidelines for patient
management.
29. reference
range not
suggestive of
intestinal
inflammation
≥ 45 ug/g an
Interpretative
comment
given.
Please ‘phone if
you wish to
discuss - Duty
Biochemist
01752 517936.
Biochem Faecal Elastase 1
Blue
Universal + Spoon > 200 Normal
ugE1/g stool
< 100 Severe
pancreatic
insufficiency
ugE1/g stool
14- 21 days
Referral Test to
Clinical
Chemistry
Department,
Treliske Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Clinical Chemistry
Department, Treliske
Hospital
Cyto Faecal Fat Globules
(cytology)
Universal + Spoon
5 days*
*>50%
reported within
5 days - more
complex cases
may take
longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
Restricted to
investigation of
paediatric cases
only.
Micro Faeces - Clostridium
Difficile GDH & Toxin Sterile plastic
universal + Spoon
1 day No need to send
follow-up
samples if initial
test is positive
for toxin. (Toxin
can persist up to
2 weeks)
Micro Faeces - Culture Sterile plastic
universal + Spoon
3 days Do not overfill
container.
Include details of
foreign travel.
Include details of
food consumed if
food poisoning
suspected
Micro Faeces - Enteric
PCR Test
Sterile plastic
universal + Spoon
2 days Do not overfill
container.
Include details of
foreign travel.
Include details of
food consumed if
food poisoning
suspected
Micro Faeces - Microscopy
(Parasitology)
Sterile plastic
universal + Spoon
2 days Do not overfill
container.
Include details of
foreign travel. If
amoebic
dysentery is
suspected then a
hot stool sample
is preferred.
30. Arrange with
laboratory prior
to submission on
01752 792380.
Micro Faeces - Norovirus Sterile plastic
universal + Spoon
If Norovirus
outbreak
suspected,
notify Infection
Control for
urgent testing
1 day from
request
Micro Faeces - other
Virology
Sterile plastic
universal + Spoon
14 days
Biochem Ferritin Adult (19+
years)
F 10-204 ug/L
M 22-275 ug/L
*see Patient
report for
specific gender
and age
related ranges.
24 hours Caliper study
values for
children under
19yrs and
expected values
from kit insert for
adults but with a
LLN of 10 ug/L
for adult females.
Hcoag Fibrinogen 1.5-4.5 ug/ml 24 hours
H&I Flow Cytometric
Crossmatch
Interpretative
comment given
<7 days For renal
transplant. Must
be booked with
H&I lab 52390
Biochem Flucytosine
Interpretative
comment given
7 days
Referral Test to
Antimicrobial
Reference
Laboratory
Department of
Microbiology,
Southmead
Hospital
Arrange with
Consultant
Microbiologist
prior to taking
sample.
Biochem Fluid Albumin Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units: g/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Amylase Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units: U/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Bilirubin Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units umol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Cholesterol Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
31. fluids’
Biochem Fluid Chloride Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Bicarbonate Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units: mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Creatinine Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units umol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Glucose Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Potassium Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid LDH Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units U/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Lipase Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units U/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Magnesium Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Sodium Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Protein Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units g/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Triglyceride Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
32. Biochem Fluid Urea Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units mmol/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid AFP Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units kIU/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid CA125 Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units kU/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid CA19-9 Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units kU/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid CEA Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units ug/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid hCG Universal container No reference
range quoted
Units IU/L
24 hrs ‘This assay has
not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem
Fluid pH Universal (FULL) Unit: pH
No reference
range given
2hr
A full specimen
pot is required
and must be
received in lab as
soon as possible
and analysed
with 2 hours of
collection.
Notify Duty
Biochemist in
advance, when
requesting this
test.
Micro Fluid - Vesicle
Herpes Virus PCR /
IFT
Swab of lesion in
PCR (UTM)
transport medium
5 days Collect fluid from
within the vesicle
or swab the
periphery of
lesion collecting
matter and fluid if
possible.
Micro Fluid CAPD - Culture CAPD dialysis bag
sealed with clip
3 days Send complete
dialysis bag in a
sealed double
white plastic bag
Micro Fluid CAPD -
Microscopy
Sealed dialysis bag Same day
Micro Fluid Cerebrospinal -
PCR
Sterile plastic
universal
1 day
Performed on
suspected viral
33. meningitis
(Enterovirus,
Herpes or
Varicella Zoster)
or suspected
Meningococcal
Meningitis.
Note: EDTA
Blood sample
can also be
tested for
Meningococcal
PCR
Micro Fluid Culture eg
ascitic, pleural, joint,
csf
Sterile plastic
universal
3 days State site on
request form and
sample
Micro Fluid Microscopy eg
ascitic,csf, pleural,
joint
Sterile plastic
universal
1 day State site on
request form and
sample
Micro Fluid Mycobacteria -
Culture
Sterile plastic
universal
12 weeks
Micro Fluid Mycobacteria -
Microscopy
Sterile plastic
universal
1 day
Cyto Fluids -ascitic, joint,
pleural
25ml white top
universal 5 days*
*>50%
reported within
5 days - more
complex cases
may take
longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
Biochem Folate (serum) Adult 3.1 - 20
ug/L.
*see Patient
report for
specific age
related ranges.
Caliper study
values for
children and
expected values
from kit insert for
adults.
Biochem Free Androgen Index M: (0-49yr) –
24.5 – 113.3
M (50yr+) –
19.3 – 118.4
F: (0-49yr) –
0.7 – 8.7
F: (50yr+) – 0.5
– 4.7
24hrs Calculated from
testosterone and
SHBG.
Reference
intervals taken
from Abbott
product alert
notice –
September 14th
,
2015
Biochem Free Fatty Acids Send to
Laboratory
immediately.
Usually
requested with 3-
34. Fasting levels
0.1-0.9 mmol/L
14 days
hydroxybutyrate
and glucose.
Referral Test to
Biochemical
Genetics Unit,
Southmead
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Biochemical Genetics
Unit , Southmead
Hospital
Glucose
concentration
required for
referral.
Biochem Free T3 Adult 2.6 - 5.7
pmol/L. *see
Patient report
for specific
gender and
age related
ranges.
24 hours Caliper study
values for
children and
expected values
from kit insert.
Biochem Free Thyroxine, FT4 Adult (19+
years)9.0-19.0
pmol/L. *see
Patient report
for specific age
related ranges.
24 hours Caliper study
values for
children and
expected values
from kit insert.
Histo Frozen Section Send sample in dry
pot
Less than 1
hour
*complex/multi
ple
blocks/multiple
specimens
may take
longer.
Arrange with
Histopathology
Laboratory prior
to taking sample
- tel extn 52362.
See notes in
'Sending High
Risk Specimens'
section if patient
is known, or
suspected, to be
an infection
hazard.*Please
note that we are
no longer able to
offer a frozen
section service to
count neutrophils
in specimens
from orthopaedic
joint revision
surgery (see
explanatory note
in Histopathology
Section)
Biochem FSH Male 1.0 - 12.0
iu/L.
Female -
dependent on
menstrual
phase. *see
Patient report
for specific age
related ranges.
24 hours Expected values
from kit insert
35. Haem Full Blood Count *see Patient
report for
specific age
related ranges
and red cell
parameters
including white
cell count and
differential.
24 hours
Micro Fungal Culture -
dermatophytes
Sterile wide-
mouthed container
or folded black
paper.
16 days
Micro Fungal Culture -
yeasts
Charcoal swab or
pink top -E-swab
2 days
Micro Fungal Microscopy -
dermatophytes
Sterile wide-
mouthed container
or folded black
paper.
2 days
Micro Fungal Serology 21 days This test is
referred to HPA
SW Laboratory,
Bristol
Haem G6PD Deficiency
screen
Interpretative
comment given
7 days Contact
laboratory prior
to taking sample
- Ext.33244 or
33245
Immuno GAD Antibodies
(IDDM) (GADAD)
POS/NEG
Positive results
with
interpretative
comment
Referred test to
Immunology
Dept, R,D&E,
Exeter.
Immuno GAD Antibodies
(Stiff man syndrome)
(GADAS)
POS/NEG
Positive results
with
interpretative
comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Institute of
Molecular
Medicine, Oxford
Biochem Gamma Glutamyl
Transferase (GGT)
F Adult (19+
yrs) 9-36 U/L,
M Adult
(19+yrs) 12-64
U/L
*see patient
report for
specific age
related ranges
24 hours Caliper study
values for
children under
19yrs and
expected values
from kit insert for
adults.
Immuno Ganglioside/Glycolipi
d/GM antibodies
(AGLY1)
POS/NEG
Positive results
with
interpretative
comment
21 days Referred test to
Dept of
Neurology,
Southern
General Hospital,
Glasgow
Cyto Gastric Brushings
(malignant cells)
Plastic slide carrier
and/or in Cytospin
collection Fluid in
10 ml conical tube.
5 days*
*>50%
reported within
5 days - more
complex cases
may take
longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
36. Cyto Gastric Washings
(malignant cells)
25ml white top
universal
5 days*
*>50%
reported within
5 days - more
complex cases
may take
longer.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section.
Biochem Gastrin (also part of
Gut Hormone
Screen) x2
On ice
Fasting
0-40 pmol/L 4-6 weeks Fasting sample
required on ice.
Contact Duty
biochemist to
arrange.
Referral Test to
The SAS
Laboratories,
Clinical
Biochemistry &
Medical
Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
The SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Referral
Lab
Genetic Tests
- see also
Cytogentics
It is the
responsibility of
the requesting
clinician to
ensure such
samples reach
their destination.
Please ensure
that the
appropriate
request form is
used for all
Genetic Test
Requests. For
those which are
sent to Bristol
Genetics
Laboratory -
attached below:
Bristol Genetics
Form (2).pdf
Link to Bristol
Genetics lab
Website is
attached below:
bristol_genetics
Biochem Gentamicin
Trough/pre-dose
Units mg/L 24 hours Trough level
should be taken
immediately
before a dose.
Peak level
should usually be
taken an hours
after a dose.
State drug
37. regime and time
of last dose on
sample.
Trough - In
adults when
gentamicin is
being given once
daily, a trough
level of >1 mg/L
indicates the
need to increase
the interval
between doses.
Further advice is
available via the
on call
microbiologist via
30010 or bleep
via the
switchboard.
Multiple daily
doses of
gentamicin are
usually only
indicated in
endocarditis. In
such cases the
optimal ranges
are as follows;
Predose <1
mg/L, Postdose
3-5 mg/L at one
hour post-
infusion. Further
advice is
available via the
on call
microbiologist via
30010 or bleep
via switchboard.
Source of range -
?
Biochem Globulin 18-36 g/L 24 hours Calculated from
difference
between total
protein and
albumin
concentrations.
Source of range
– Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Pathology Test List (continued)
Pathology Test List
Immuno Glomerular Base
Membrane
Antibodies
POS/NEG 7 days
38. Biochem Glucose
- plasma and fasting
(GP & Hospital)
Normal reference
range 3.5 - 5.4 mmol/L
fasting.
11.1 (random)
consistent with
diabetes mellitus, at 2
hours. *see report in
pregnancy range
fasting blood glucose
>= 5.3 mmol/L and 2
hours blood glucose
>= 7.8 mmol/L during
OGTT is consistent
with gestational DM
24 hours Fasting plasma
glucose >7 mmol/L
is consistent with
diabetes. Fasting
plasma glucose 5.5-
6.9 mmol/L indicates
a patient is at high
risk of developing
type 2 diabetes [NICE
guideline PH38].
Biochem Glucose - CSF interpret in relation to
plasma glucose taken
simultaneously
24 hours
Biochem Glucose (GP) 24 hours
Biochem Glucose (Serum –
Fasting – Hospital
ONLY)
No reference range 24 hours Glucose
concentrations in
serum specimens
can be spuriously
low due to the
absence of
preservative in the
tube. Please
interpret with caution
and follow up
glucose results with
measurement on a
plasma fluoride
oxalate sample
where appropriate.
Biochem Glucose Tolerance
Test
Sample 1 –
Fasting
Sample 2 –
2hr
Diabetes Mellitus
Fasting 2 hours
7.0 or more 11.1 or more
Impaired glucose
tolerance
<7.0 7.8 - 11.0
Impaired fasting
glycaemia
6.1 - 6.9 <7.8
In pregnancy a fasting
blood glucose greater
than or equal to 5.3
mmol/L and/or 2 hour
blood glucose greater
than or equal to 7.8
mmol/L during oGTT is
consistent with
gestational DM
24 hours A GTT is not
appropriate or
necessary in the
presence of
diagnostic
fasting/random
plasma glucose
concentrations as
above.
Provide a fasting
sample &
2hr sample.
Immuno Glycine Receptor
antibody
POS/NEG
Positive results with
interpretative comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Institute of Molecular
Medicine, Oxford
Blood
Bank
Group and Save 1-2 hours Each group and
antibody screen
takes 40 minutes-
39. Pink however, they are
run in batches.
Biochem Growth Hormone Growth hormone ≥5
µg/L suggests
adequate secretion.
Growth hormone <
0.4µg/L suggests that
acromegaly is unlikely.
48hrs
NICE guidelines
TA64
A single
measurement is of
limited value,
suppression/stimulati
on tests are often
required.
Biochem Gut Hormone Screen
x2
On ice
fasting
Interpretative comment
given
4-6 weeks Fasting sample
required on ice.
Contact Duty
biochemist to
arrange.
Referral Test to The
SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry
& Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of reference
range - The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross Hospital
Biochem Haemoglobin A1c
(HbA1c)
48 mmol/mol is the
recommended cut off
point for diagnosing
DM and considered
good control for DM
24 hours Performing this test
less than 3 months
after a previous test
is very rarely
required except in
pregnancy. NICE
Guidelines.
Haem Haemoglobinopathy
Screen
Interpretative comment
given
Maybe up
to 14 days
(3 days for
antenatal
patients)
Sickle cell and
thalassaemia
screening. For
antenatal requests
please use FOQ
form
Biochem Haptoglobin
or
Male – 0-1yr: 0.0-3.0;
>1-12: 0.03 – 2.70;
>12-60: 0.14 – 2.58;
>60: 0.40-2.68
Female- 0-1yr: 0.0-
2.35; >1-12: 0.11 –
2.2; >12-60: 0.35 –
2.5; >60: 0.63-2.73
Units -g/L
7 days Reference ranges
from kit insert
Biochem HDL – Cholesterol
(Part of LIPID profile)
F: Adult (19+yrs) 0.9 –
1.8 mmol/L
M:Adult (19+yrs) 0.9 –
1.6 mmol/L
*see patient report for
specific age related
ranges
24hrs Caliper study values
for children,
Ranges from NICE
Guidleines
40. Hist Helicobacter Pylori Formalin 7-14 days Endoscopy also
perform a breath test
commonly known as
CLO.
Micro Helicobacter pylori
faecal antigen test
Sterile plastic
universal +
spoon
5 days Do not overfill.
Hcoag Heparin Induced
Thrombocytopenia
90% in 5
working
days
This test is referred
to NHS-BT Filton.
Contact lab on
33244 or 33245
Samples must be
delivered to
laboratory by hand.
NBS request form
must be filled out
and 4T score
completed.
Micro Hepatitis A IgG
Antibody Screen
3 days For immunity check
prior to foreign
travel. These tests
are not covered by
the NHS and a
private charge will be
made.
Only those >50
years old or who
have resided in
developing countries
should be checked
for past
immunity. Treat all
others as susceptible
and vaccinate.
Micro Hepatitis A IgM
Antibody Screen
3 days For Hepatitis A
Acute Infection.
Micro Hepatitis B Core
Antibody Screen
3 days This should be used
to test for past
infection
Micro Hep B DNA 5 days
Micro Hepatitis B ‘e’
antigen/antibody
3 days
Micro Hepatitis B Immunity
Screen
3 days This should be used
to test for Hepatitis B
immunity post
vaccination
Micro Hepatitis B Surface
Antigen Screen
3 days This should be used
to test for acute
Hepatitis B or
carriage. An
emergency 24hr
service is available
(contact on-call
technician out of
hours)
Micro Hepatitis C Antibody
Screen
3 days A positive sero-
conversion will not
be detectable for 3-6
41. months after
infection
Micro Hepatitis C PCR 5 days Abbott HCV
quantitative (viral
load): It is
recommended that
blood samples are
received in the
laboratory within 6
hrs. after being
drawn so that
centrifugation can be
done within time
period stated in
manufacturers
guidelines.
Micro Hep E IgG/M 5 days
Micro Hepatitis C PCR
Genotyping
5 days
Hist Her 2 testing of tissue 2-6 weeks Make request on
request form. Sent to
Royal Cornwall
Hospital for testing.
Molecul
ar
Hereditary
Haemochromatosis
Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Micro Herpes Simplex PCR 4 days
Micro Herpes simplex virus
PCR
Send swab
of lesion in
UTM (Red
liquid
Medium)
5 days
Biochem 5HIAA Plain 24 hour
4.7- 36.2 umol/24hr
14 days
Special dietary
restrictions apply
prior to collection.
Contact Duty
Biochemist for
advice.
Tietz textbook of clinical
chemistry, 2nd edition
Histo Histological
examination
Formalin
unless frozen
section or
other
specialist
request
3-14 days Most specimens are
reported within the 3-
14 days
period. Complex or
specimens that need
more consideration
or additional special
investigations will
take longer to report.
Micro HIV Antibody Screen 3 days Must be authorised
by the requesting
clinician or
counsellor - result
can be available
same day if urgent
42. Micro HIV PCR Viral Load 5 days EDTA sample must
arrive in the
laboratory as ASAP
after taking
H&I HLA-B*57:01 POS or NEG 7 days Linked with
hypersensitivity to
abacavir in HIV+
patients
H&I HLA-B27 POS or NEG 7 days Linked with
Ankylosing
Spondylitis and
Uveitis
H&I HLA-DQ2/DQ8 Interpretative comment
given
7 days Linked with Coeliac
Disease
Biochem Homocysteine
On ice –
contact
laboratory in
advance.
F <11.3, M <14.3
umol/L, umol/L 14- 21
days
Unstable analyte.
Blood must arrive in
the laboratory within
30 minutes, on ice.
Notify department in
advance.
Referral Test to
Department of
Chemical Pathology
Bristol Royal
Infirmary
Source of reference
range - Department of
Chemical Pathology
Bristol Royal Infirmary
Micro HTLV type I + II
Antibody
3 days
Biochem Human Chorionic
Gonadotrophin (beta)
0-5 U/L 24 hours Expected values
from kit insert.
Measured to confirm
pregnancy or as a
tumour marker in
patients with
gestational
trophoblastic disease
and non-
seminomatous germ
cell tumours
Immuno 3-Hydroxy-3-Methyl-
Glutaryl-CoA
Reductase antibodies
(HMGCoA)
NEG
POS with clinical
interpretive comment
14-21 days Referred test to
Institute of Molecular
medicine, Oxford
43. Biochem
IgA
Units – g/L
*see patient report for
specific gender & age
related ranges
24hrs Caliper study values
for children under
19yrs and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Biochem IgG Units – g/L
*see patient report for
specific gender & age
related ranges
24hrs Caliper study values
for children under
19yrs and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Biochem IgM Units – g/L
*see patient report for
specific gender & age
related ranges
24hrs Caliper study values
for children under
19yrs and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Immuno IgE, Allergen Specific 0 28 days Results given as
RAST grade. Please
list all allergen tests
required.
Immuno IgE, Total 0 - 108 IU <7 days
Biochem IGF1 (Ins L Growth
Factor 1)
Units: ug/L
*See patient report for
specific gender & age
related ranges
14- 21
days
Referral Test to
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
44. NB: Some Paediatric
samples may be
referred to Royal
Surrey County
Hospital NHS Trust
Guildford.
Biochem IGFBP3 Units: mg/L
*See patient report for
age related ranges
28 days Referral Test to SAS
Peptide Hormone
Section
Clinical Laboratory
Royal Surrey County
Hospital
Source of reference
range - SAS Peptide
Hormone Section
Clinical Laboratory
Royal Surrey County
Hospital
Immuno IgG Sub-Classes age related 14 days
Molecul
ar
IgH B cell clonality Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Haem IM Screen POS/NEG comment
given
3 days Gold top sample
viable for up to 8
days.
Histo Immunofluorescence
(IMF) -
skin/mucosal
biopsies
In time for
the next
Dermatolo
gy CPC
Meeting
(following
the date of
the biopsy)
Reference should be
made to special
notes in
'Immunofluorescenc
e (IMF) on skin and
mucosal
biopsies' section
Immuno Immunophenotyping
for Leukaemia
<7 days Also known as 'cell
markers', please
give as much clinical
information as
possible, especially
whether acute or
chronic leukaemia
suspected.
Micro Influenza A Antibody
Screen
5 days Adequate clinical
information must be
given to ensure
appropriate tests are
performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute samples
may be held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least 14
days into illness).
Micro Influenza B Antibody
Screen
5 days Adequate clinical
information must be
given to ensure
45. appropriate tests are
performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute samples
may be held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least 14
days into illness).
Hcoag INR See BSH guidelines on
warfarin dosing
24 hours Non anti-coagulated
patient Ratio
Biochem Insulin
On ice
Results are dependent
upon plasma glucose
concentrations:
1. Normal fasting
levels <10 mU/
2. Hypoglycaemia
(glucose <2.5mmol/L)
<5 mU/L
3. Severe
hypoglycaemia
(glucose <1.5
mmol/L)<2 mU/L
28 days Unstable Hormone.
Blood must arrive in
laboratory within 15
minutes, on ice.
Notify department in
advance.
Glucose
concentration
required for referral.
Referral Test to
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Specialist Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Immuno Insulin
Autoantibodies
POS/NEG
Positive results with
interpretative comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Protein Reference
Unit, Sheffield
Immuno Insulinoma-like
Antigen 2 antibodies
(IA2)
Units U/ml
POS/NEG
Positive results with
interpretative comment
Referred test to Dept
of Immunology, R,D
& E, Exeter
Source of reference
range Dept of
Immunology, R,D & E,
Exeter
Neuro Intra-operative
diagnosis -Frozen
section/brain smear
Send sample
in dry pot
Less than
1 hour
Arrange with
laboratory prior to
taking sample - tel
extn 54408 . See
notes in 'Sending
High Risk
Specimens' section if
patient is known, or
suspected, to be an
infection hazard.
Immuno Intrinsic Factor
Antibodies
POS/NEG
Positive comments
with interpretative
comment
14 days Referred test to Dept
Haematology,
Torbay Hospital
Molecul
ar
inv(16) in AML Interpretative comment
given
7 days Must arrive in
laboratory as soon
as possible
46. Biochem Iron Units – umol/L
*See patient’s report
for specific gender &
age related ranges
24 hours Primarily indicated in
the investigation
of suspected iron
overload.
Caliper study values
for children under 19
years and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Histo Iron (Dry weight) Dry container 6 weeks Annotate 'DRY IRON
WEIGHT REQUEST'
on request
form. Place
specimen dry in wide
mouth
container. DO NOT
ADD FORMALIN.
Specimen sent away
for testing.
Immuno Islet Cell Antibodies POS/NEG
Positive results with
interpretative comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Protein Reference
Unit, Sheffield
Molecul
ar
JAK2 in MPN Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Blood
Bank
Kleihauer Test
Pink
Same day
Biochem Lactate (Blood
Lactate CSF)
0.5-2.2 mmol/L
1.1-2.4 mmol/L (CSF)
24 hours Unstable, blood must
come to the
laboratory as soon
as possible
Blood - Expected
values from kit
insert.
CSF - Adult
reference interval
from previous Roche
assay.
CSF - 'This assay
has not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids'
Biochem Lamotrigine 3-15 mg/L
14- 21
days
Referral Test to TDM
Unit
Chalford St Peter
Chesham Lane
Buckinghamshire
Source of reference
range - TDM Unit
Chalford St Peter
Chesham Lane
Buckinghamshire
See Therapeutic
Drug monitoring
47. section.
Biochem LDH (Lactate
Dehydrogenase)
Adult (19+ years) 125-
200 U/L
*See patient’s report
for specific gender &
age related ranges
24 hours Caliper study values
for children under 19
years and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Biochem LDL – Cholesterol Units – mmol/L 24 hours Calculated from
cholesterol,
triglyceride and HDL
Biochem Lead 0.1 – 35 ug/100ml 7-14 days Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical Chemistry
Northern General
Hospital
Source of reference
range - Department of
Clinical Chemistry
Northern General Hospital
Biochem LH (Luteinising
Hormone)
Male 0.6-12.1
Female depends on
ovulation cycle or post
menopausal.
* See patient report for
specific ranges
24 hours Expected values
from kit insert.
Biochem Lipase Adult (19+yrs) 8 –
78U/L
*see patient report
for specific gender &
age related ranges
24hrs Caliper study values
up to 19yrs, expected
values from kit insert
for adults
Biochem Lithium
12 hours
Post-dose
0.4-1.0 mmol/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
section.
Steady state lithium
concentrations
should be in the
range 0.4-1.0
mmol/L. Samples
should be drawn at
least 12 hours after
the last dose. The
minimum
requirement for
lithium level
monitoring is every
three months with
measurement of
thyroid and kidney
function every six
months.
Pathology Harmony
reference interval.
Biochem Profile 2
Liver Function Tests
See individual test
details.
24 hours Term usually applied
inappropriately to
indicate a request for
total protein,
albumin, bilirubin,
ALP and ALT
globulin
48. Immuno Liver Kidney
Microsomal
Antibodies
POS/NEG 7 days
Molecul
ar
Loss of hetrozygosity
at chromosomes 1p
and 19q in
oligodendrogliomas 10ml EDTA
blood
14 days Tissue provided by
Neuropathology.
Bloods to be sent to
Molecular Biology.
Hcoag Low Dose Heparin
Assay (Clexane) or
anti- Xa assay.
Interpretative
comment given
24 hours Contact laboratory
prior to taking
sample - ext.33244
or 33245. Sample
must be taken 3
hours post dose
Hcoag Lupus Anticoagulant
Screen
Send 2 x
citrate
samples
plus 1 gold
(for ACL)
Ratio <1.2 7 days Please book with
laboratory - Ext
33244 or 33245
Micro Lyme Screening <3 days
DCL and
Micro
Lyme Testing CSF This test is
performed by the
Rare and Imported
Pathogens
Laboratory (PHE).
Please send:
1. CSF sample:
Send one
bottle to DCL
requesting albumin
and total
immunoglobulin
Send
another bottle (>3ml)
to Microbiology
requesting cell count
and storage pending
receipt of completed
Lyme request form
(reference laboratory
requires at least
2mls, and cell count
must be performed
first – if other testing
is also required then
please specify on
request and ensure
sufficient volume of
CSF sent).
2. Serum
sample on same day
to DCL requesting
albumin and total
49. immunoglobulin
3. Separate
serum sample on
same day to
Microbiology
(requesting storage
pending receipt of
completed Lyme
request form). If
serum Lyme
antibodies have not
already been
performed, these
can be requested on
this sample.
Requester must
come to
Microbiology to
complete a Lyme
referral form,
including the albumin
and total
immunoglobulin
results for both
serum and CSF. On
receipt of the
completed request
form we will forward
the stored CSF and
serum to RIPL
reference laboratory
for Lyme testing.
H&I Lymphocytotoxic
Antibody Screen
Reported as HLA
specificities with
normalised MFI.
Donor specific
antibodies requests as
interpretative
comments
14- 21
days
Routine samples
collected every 1
month. Additional
samples should be
sent 2 weeks after
blood transfusion or
infections. Use this
test to request Donor
Specific Antibody
which can be
performed urgently
after contacting the
H&I lab 52390
Immuno Lymphocytotoxic
Crossmatch
x4
<7 days For renal transplant.
Must be booked with
Immunology lab
52293
Hist Lymphoma Studies 3-14 days Reference should be
made to special
notes in
histopathology
section. Complex or
specimens that need
more consideration
or additional special
investigations will
50. take longer to report.
Immuno M2 Mitochondrial
Antibodies
POS/NEG 7 days
Biochem Magnesium 0-4 weeks : 0.6 – 1.0
mmol/L
>4 weeks : 0.7-1.0
mmol/L
24 hours Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Haem Malarial Parasite
Screen
24 hours Contact laboratory -
Ext 33244 or
33245.Samples must
be treated as urgent.
Please give details
of travel. Reference
should be made to
special notes in
haematology section
Immuno Mast Cell Tryptase
(MCT)
14 days Take sample straight
away and then
repeat 1 hour later
Micro Measles IgG 5 days
Micro Meningococcal
Antibody Screen
5 days This test is referred
to the HPA,
Meningococcal
Reference
Laboratory,
Manchester
Micro Meningococcal PCR 5 days This test is referred
to the HPA,
Meningococcal
Reference
Laboratory,
Manchester. See
also CSF for PCR
Biochem Mercury
Sample
required
depends on
exposure;
contact Duty
Biochemist
to discuss
<20 nmol/L 14 days Referral Test to
Southampton Trace
Elements Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Trace Elements Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem
Urine Mercury Universal
Unexposed persons
< 2 nmol/mmol
creatinine
Dental workers < 10
nmol/mmol creatinine
Industrial workers < 45
nmol/mmol creatinine
Neurological changes
> 50 nmol/mmol
14 days Referral Test to
Southampton Trace
Elements Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Trace Elements Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
51. creatinine
Biochem Methadone Universal
NEG/POS (300 ug/L
cut-off)
7 days
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Biochem Methotrexate Units umol/L
No range quoted.
24 hours Rarely required;
contact Duty
Biochemist to
arrange. Patients
taking the drug for
treatment of chronic
disorders require
regular full blood
count, renal and liver
profiles.
IMPORTANT:
Specimen must be
protected from light.
Molecul
ar
MGMT Methylation in
Glioma
Interpretative comment
given
14 days Tumour tissue
provided by
Neuropathology
Department.
Biochem Monomeric Prolactin
(Macroprolactin)
Male: 72 – 229 mIU/L
Female:79-347 mIU/L
7 days Clinical Chemistry,
2010, 56 (3), 484-90
Molecul
ar
MPL exon 10 gene
mutation in MPN
Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Micro MRSA - PCR (nose
swab)
Red Top
Swab without
Charcoal
1 day Specified patient
categories only -
please contact the
laboratory if in doubt.
Sample must be
received before 1pm
to be processed on
that day.
Micro MRSA/MSSA triple
swab screen - Nose,
throat, perineum.
Triple
MRSA/MSS
A Collection
kit (using 3
separate E-
swabs)
2 days
For sampling
information, click
here:
E Swab.pdf
Micro Mumps IgG 4 days
Neuro Muscle Biopsies 14 days Reference should be
made to special
notes in the 'Muscle
and Nerve Biopsies'
section.
Immuno Muscle-specific
tyrosine kinase
(MuSK) antibodies
POS/NEG
Positive results with
interpretative comment
14-21 days
Referred test to
Institute of Molecular
Medicine, Oxford
52. Biochem Mycophenolate
Pre-dose
1-3.5 mg/L 7-14 days Referral Test to IDM
Service, King’s
College Hospital
Source of reference
range - IDM Service
King’s College Hospital
Micro Mycoplasma
genitalium PCR
“First catch“
urine
samples.
Genital and
rectal swabs
(red topped
UTM swab)
7 days This test is currently
referred to
Micropathology,
Warwick.
Micro Mycoplasma
Pneumoniae
Antibody Screen
5 days
Molecul
ar
MYD88 gene
mutation in WM
Interpretive comment
given
28 days This test is referred
to RD&E, Exeter
Immuno Myelin Associated
Glycoprotein
antibodies (MAGA)
POS/NEG
Positive results with
interpretative comment
Referred test to
Oxford University
Hospital, Oxford
Immuno Myeloperoxidase
Antibody
POS/NEG 10 days
Micro Neisseria
gonorrhoeae PCR
test
4 days First catch urine
sample or self-taken
vulvovaginal swab
Neuro Nerve Biopsies 4-6 weeks Reference should be
made to special
notes in the 'Muscle
and Nerve Biopsies'
section.
Immuno Neutrophil Function
Test (BURST)
Special
<7 days Must be booked with
Immunology lab
52293
Cyto Nipple Discharge Plastic slide
carrier.
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5
days -
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Reference should be
made to special
notes in
Cytopathology
section.
Biochem Non-HDL cholestrol Units mmol/L 24 hours Calculated from HDL
and Cholesterol
Molecul
ar
Nucleophosmin Gene
Mutation in AML
Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Cyto Oesophageal
Brushings (malignant
cells)
Plastic slide
carrier and/or
in Cytospin
collection
Fluid in 10 ml
conical tube.
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5
days -
more
Reference should be
made to special
notes in the
Cytopathology
section.
53. complex
cases may
take
longer.
Biochem Oestradiol Male <161 pmol/L
Female varies with
stage of menstrual
cycle or post
menopausal (+HRT)
* See patient report for
specific ranges
24 hours Expected values
from kit insert
Immuno Oligoclonal Bands
(CSF) -see CSF
Interpretative comment
given
10 days
Biochem
Opiate Universal NEG/POS (300 ug/L
cut off)
7 days
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Biochem
Opiate Identification
(Urine) Universal
Interpretative comment
given.
The cut-offs used to
define positive results
are given below
Opiate Positive
6-monoacetyl
morphine
>10 ug/L
DHC >150 ug/L
Codeine >150 ug/L
Morphine >30 ug/L
Tramadol >50 ug/L and
metabolite area
>1800
6-
acetylcodein
e
>50 ug/L
14 days Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Biochem Organic Acids (urine) Universal
random
Interpretative comment
given 14- 21
days
Referral Test to
Biochemical
Genetics Unit
Pathology Sciences
Building
Southmead Hospital
24 hour specimens
are rarely indicated
for generalised
screening. Please
contact laboratory for
more information.
Biochem Osmolality (urine) Universal ra
ndom
No range quoted.
Units mm/kg
24 hours Interpret with
reference to serum
osmolality and
hydration status.
The urine osmolality
should be interpreted
with knowledge of
the patient’s serum
osmolality and
hydration status.
54. Urine collection
containers with
preservatives are
unsuitable for
analysis. (i.e. Boric
Acid)
Urine specimens
must be analysed
within 36 hours of
collection.
Biochem Osmolality
(serum/plasma)
or
275-295mmol/kg 24 hours Serum specimens
must be analysed
within 36 hours of
collection.
Source of range-
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals.
Immuno Ovarian Antibodies POS/NEG 15 days
Histo Ovarian tumours Dry container 3-14 days Reference should be
made to special
notes in the
'Gynaecological
(ovarian and
endometrial
tumours)'
section. Most
specimens are
reported within the 3-
14 days
period. Complex or
specimens that need
more consideration
or additional special
investigations will
take longer to
report.
Biochem Pancreatic
Polypeptide (also part
of Gut Hormone
Screen)
x 2
On ice
fasting
0-300 pmol/L 4-6 weeks Fasting sample
required on ice.
Contact Duty
biochemist to
arrange.
Referral Test to The
SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry
& Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of reference
range - The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross Hospital
Biochem Paracetamol
Units mg/L
Interpret relative to
time of ingestion using 24hrs
Sample should be
taken at least 4
hours post ingestion.
'Please note that
55. standard charts e.g
BNF
high concentrations
of N-acetylcysteine
may interfere with
measurement of
paracetamol'
Immuno Paraprotein
Concentration
5 days
Immuno Parathyroid
Antibodies
POS/NEG 14 days
Biochem Parathyroid Hormone Adult (19+ years) 1.6-
7.2 pmol/L *see
Patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Must arrive in the
laboratory within 6
hours
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values
from the kit insert for
adults
Immuno Paroxysmal
Nocturnal
Haemaglobinuria
Pos/Neg <7 days Positive result
indicates a clone of
CD59 day deficient
red cells detected
Micro Parvovirus IgG
Antibody Screen
5 days
Micro Parvovirus IgM
Antibody Screen
5 days
Cyto Pericardial Fluid 25ml white
top universal
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5
days -
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Reference should be
made to special
notes in the
Cytopathology
section.
Cyto Peritoneal Fluid 25ml white
top universal
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5
days -
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Reference should be
made to special
notes in the
Cytopathology
section.
Hcoag PFA-100
2 samples
required
Interpretative comment
given
24 hours Contact laboratory
prior to taking
samples - Ext 33244
or 33245
Biochem Phenobarbitone
Pre-dose
10-40 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section
56. Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Phenytoin
Pre-dose
5-20 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section
Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Phosphate 16+yrs: 0.8-1.5 mmol/L
*see Patient report for
specific age related
reference ranges in
children.
24 hours Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Haem Plasma Viscosity 1.39-1.70 mPas 2 days
Hcoag Platelet Aggregation
studies
x6
Interpretative
comment given
24 hours Contact laboratory
prior to taking
samples - Ext 33244
or 33245 Follow on
testing may be
referred to Oxford
Haemophilia and
Thrombosis Centre.
Cyto Pleural Fluid
(malignant cells)
25ml white
top universal
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5
days -
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Reference should be
made to special
notes in the
Cytopathology
section.
Immuno Pneumococcal
Antibodies
>20mg/ml is protective
(> 40 mg/ml if post
splenectomy)
14 days
Micro Polyoma (BK) Virus 5 days
Biochem Porphyrin
(faecal)
Universal
Stool
< 200 nmol/g dry
weight
14-28 days
Samples of blood,
urine (plain
container) and
faeces should be
sent protected from
the light, preferably
collected when
patient is
symptomatic (acute
forms)
Referral Test to
Department of
Medical
Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales
57. Source of reference
range - Department of
Medical Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales
Biochem Porphyrin
(urine)
Universal Interpretative comment
given
14-28 days Samples of blood,
urine (plain
container) and
faeces should be
sent protected from
the light, preferably
collected when
patient is
symptomatic (acute
forms)
Referral Test to
Department of
Medical
Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales
Source of reference
range - Department of
Medical Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales.
Biochem Porphyrin (whole
blood)
Plasma porphyrin
screen – increased/not
increased
Red blood cell
porphyrin screen –
Pos/Neg
Red blood cell total
porphyrin – 0.4 – 1.7
umol/L
14-28 days Samples of blood,
urine (plain
container) and
faeces should be
sent protected from
the light, preferably
collected when
patient is
symptomatic (acute
forms)
Referral Test to
Department of
Medical
Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales
Source of reference
range - Department of
Medical Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales.
Mortuar
y
Post Mortem
Examination
Up to 3
months
dependant
on the
material
retained
Consent required.
See Anatomical
Pathology (Mortuary
section)/Requesting
a consented
autopsy.
58. Biochem Potassium 16 years+
3.5-5.3 mmol/L *see
Patient report for
paediatric ranges.
24 hours Analysis affected by
Haemolysis.
Specimens older
than 12hrs will not
be tested.
Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals.
Biochem Procalcitonin 0-0.5 ug/L 24 hours Reference interval
taken from Vidas kit
insert
Biochem Progesterone No reference range
quoted
Units: nmol/L
24 hours If sample taken 7
days before a period,
a progesterone
concentration <15
nmol/L indicates that
ovulation has not
occurred; >30
nmol/L indicates that
ovulation has
occurred.
Biochem Prolactin Male 73-407
Female 109-557 mIU/L
24 hours Expected values
from kit insert
Biochem Protein (urine) Plain 24hr 0-0.12g/24hr 24 hours
Biochem Protein Adult (19+ years) 60-
80 g/L *see Patient
report for specific age
related ranges.
24 hours For urine protein see
urine section
Hcoag Protein C 70-130 % 14 days Contact Consultant
Haematologist (part
of thrombophilia
screen)
Hcoag Protein S
(Free Protein S)
65-140 % 14 days Contact Consultant
Haematologist (part
of thrombophilia
screen). Follow on
testing may be
referred to Royal
Free Hospital,
London -
Haemophilia centre
and Haemostasis
Unit
Immuno Proteinase 3
Antibodies
POS/NEG 14 days
Biochem PSA 40-49 years
0-2.5 ug/L
50-59 years
0-3.5 ug/L
60-69 years
0-4.5 ug/L
70-79 years
0-6.5 ug/L
24 hours Ranges sourced
from journal : Serum
Prostate-Specific
Antigen in a
Community-Based
Population of
Healthy Men
Establishment of
Age-Specific
Reference Ranges,
JAMA.
1993;270(7):860-
864.
doi:10.1001/jama.19
59. 93.03510070082041
Haem Pyruvate Kinase No longer
offered-
contact lab if
required
- - Contact laboratory
Ext 33244 or 33245
Micro Quantiferon TB Test Contact lab
52376/
01752
792376 for
tubes
7 days Same day sample
delivery required
before 16.30 - Read
kit insert carefully for
sample volume and
handling
Haem Red Cell Enzyme
Assays
x 2
Variable, depending on
enzyme assayed
14 days Contact lab on Ext
33244 or 33245
before taking
sample. This test is
referred to King’s
College Hospital,
London. Note that a
G6PD deficiency
screen is also
available.
Haem Red Cell Membrane
studies
Interpretative
comments given
14 days Contact lab on Ext
33244 or 33245
before taking sample
This test is referred
to King’s College
Hospital, London.
Haem Red Cell Osmotic
Fragility
3 days Contact laboratory
for an appointment -
Ext 33244 or 33245
Histo Renal Biopsy Provided by
BMS on
attendance
at the biopsy.
Alternatively
biopsies may
be
transported
direct to the
lab in saline
soaked
gauze for
examination
and transfer
to the correct
containers.
3-14 days BMS attendance at
renal biopsies is by
arrangement.
Telephone the
laboratory 52362. A
BMS will attend if
possible; this may be
difficult over the
lunchtime period
12.30 – 13.30.
(Biopsies may be
transported direct to
the laboratory for
examination, in
cases of
emergency).
Biopsies must be
received before
16.00 to ensure
processing
overnight.
Biochem Renal Calculus
(stone)
Universal Interpretative comment
given
6 weeks Referral Test to
University College
London Hospitals
Biochem Renin 0 – 7 days 4 – 340 mU/L
>7 days – 1yr 4 – 190mU/L
>1yr – 11yrs 4 – 85 mU/L
>11yrs – 15yrs 4 – 75 mU/L
Adults:
Supine 2 – 30 mU/L
Ambulant 3 – 40 mU/L
21-28 days Measure with renin
to determine
renin:aldosterone
ratio.
Unstable hormone;
blood must arrive in
laboratory with 30
60. minutes. Notify
Department in
advance.
Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Micro Respiratory Antigen
Screen - Adeno
Aspiration
tube
1 day
Micro Respiratory Antigen
Screen - Flu A
Aspiration
tube
1 day
Micro Respiratory Antigen
Screen - Flu B
Aspiration
tube
1 day
Micro Respiratory Antigen
Screen - Paraflu
Aspiration
tube
1 day
Micro Respiratory Antigen
Screen - RSV
Aspiration
tube
1 day
Micro Respiratory PCR Send throat
swab in UTM
(Red liquid
Medium)
1 day
Haem Reticulocytes 30-120 *109/L 24 hours
Biochem
Rheumatoid Factor
0 – 30 IU/ml 24hrs A negative Rhf does
not exclude
rheumatoid arthritis.
A positive Rhf can be
seen in rheumatoid
arthritis, infection,
inflammation and
healthy individuals.
Reference intervals
are sourced from the
Kit insert
Micro Rickettsia Antibody
Screen
5 days This test is referred
to HPA, CAMR
Micro Rubella IgG Serology
Screen
3 days
Micro Rubella IgM Serology
Screen
5 days Send sample 4 days
after onset of rash
Biochem Salicylate Units: mg/L
No range quoted.
24 hours
Immuno Salivary Gland
Antibodies
POS/NEG 14 days
Immuno Salivary IgA Universal 5 days
61. Micro Schistosoma
Antibody Screen
14 days This test is referred
to the Hospital for
Tropical Diseases,
London
Immuno Scleroderma panel
(SCLER1)
POS with clinical
interpretive comment
NEG with panel list
14 days –
up to 12
weeks
Referral test to Bird
Institute for
Rheumatic
Diseases, Bath
Biochem Selenium
Blue trace
metal.
< 16 yrs – 35 -113
umol/L
> 16 yrs – 70-130
umol/L
14 days Referral Test to
Southampton Trace
Elements Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Trace Elements Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Immuno Semen analysis
(fertility)
Collect pot
and
instructions
from GP
10 days By appointment
basis only – contact
lab – see instruction
sheet.
Immuno Serum Protein
Analysis
Interpretative comment
given
5 days
Biochem Sex Hormone
Binding Globulin
F 16-49yrs
14.7-122.5 nmol/L
F 50yrs and older
16.7-124.4 nmol/L
M 16-49yrs
16.2-68.5 nmol/L
M 50yrs and older
13.7-69.9 nmol/L
24 hours Reference intervals
taken from Abbott
Product Alert notice
– September 14th
;
2015
Haem Sickle cell screen POS/NEG will
include FBC &
haemoglobinopathy
screen
3 days* Contact laboratory if
patient is pre-op -
Ext 33244 or 33245 *
Can be performed
urgently
Biochem Sirolimus
Trough/Pre-
dose
Renal transplant
patients:
First 6 months
maintain at 10-15μg/L.
After 6 months
maintain at 5-10μg/L.
7 days Source of range –
Southmead Hospital
Histo Skin for
Immunofluorescence
(IMF)
21 days Reference should be
made to special
notes in
'Immunofluorescenc
e (IMF) on skin and
mucosal
biopsies' section
Neuro Skin biopsy for small
fibre neuropathy
14 days Arrange with lab
prior to sending on
ext 54408 and see
special notes in 'Skin
biopsies for
Intraepidermal Nerve
Fibre Density'
section.
Biochem Sodium 133-146 mmol/L 24 hours Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
62. Immuno Specific IGG to Bee
Venom
14 days
Immuno Specific IGG to Wasp
Venom
14 days
Cyto Sputum (malignant
cells)
Wide Mouth
containing
an equal
volume of
cytospin
collection
fluid.
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5
days -
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Reference should be
made to special
notes in the
Cytopathology
section.
Micro Sputum Culture -
Mycobacteria
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
up to 12
weeks
Micro Sputum Culture -
Routine
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
3 days
Micro Sputum Mycobacteria
- Microscopy
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
1 day
Micro Staphylococcal
Serology
5 days
Micro Streptococcal
Serology
5 days
Immuno Striated Muscle
Antibodies
POS/NEG 14 days
Micro Swab Cervical
Culture
Pink top E-
swab
4 days
Micro Swab Cervical
Gonococcal Culture
Pink top E-
swab
4 days
Micro Swab Ear - Culture
Orange
Swab / Wire
Stem
4 days Place the swab in
the ear canal. Rotate
gently.
Micro Swab High Vaginal
Culture
Pink top E-
swab
4 days
Micro Swab High Vaginal
Microscopy
Pink top E-
swab
1 day
Micro Swab Mouth
Pink top E-
swab
2 days
Micro Swab MRSA Screen Pink top E-
swab
2 days Please state the
name of the site in
the clinical details
and on the
specimen.
Micro Swab Rectal -
Gonococcal Culture
Pink top E-
swab
4 days
Micro Swab Throat -
Gonococcal Culture
Pink top E-
swab
4 days
Micro Swab throat – routine
culture
Pink top E-
swab
4 days
63. Micro Swab urethral –
gonococcal culture
Orange swab
/ wire stem
4 days
Micro Swab 'Wound' and
for other sites not
stated -see separate
Microbiology test list
Pink top E-
swab
4 days Please state the
name of the site in
the clinical details
and on the specimen
Micro Swab Eye - Eye
Acanthamoeba
Contact lens,
corneal
swab, sterile
eye swab.
5 days Tested by PCR.
Laboratory supplies
sterile dry swabs and
universal containers.
Micro Swab Wound - Eye
Routine Culture
Pink top E-
swab
2 days
Biochem Sweat Test (sweat
chloride)
Macroduct
collection
tubing
*See patient report for
specific age related
ranges
24hr
Contact Duty
Biochemist to
discuss
Guidelines for the
Performance of the Sweat
Test for the Investigation of
Cystic Fibrosis in the UK
v.2
Micro Syphillis Antibody
screen
3 days
Immuno T cell Subsets <7 days Includes CD4 counts
for HIV+ patients,
CD3 or CD19 counts
for immunotherapy
(ring 52293 for
urgent results)
Molecul
ar
t(11;14) in mantle cell
lymphoma
Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Molecul
ar
t(14;18) in follicular
lymphoma
Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Molecul
ar
t(15;17) in AML Interpretative comment
given
14 days Must arrive in
laboratory as soon
as possible
Molecul
ar
t(8;21) in AML Interpretative comment
given
14 days Must arrive in
laboratory as soon
as possible
Biochem Tacrolimus
Trough/ Pre-
dose
Renal transplant
patients:
Initially maintain at 10-
15μg/L.
After 8 weeks maintain
at 5-10μg/L.
72hrs
Measured Monday,
Wednesday and
Friday
European consensus target
concentrations for Renal
transplant patients
Biochem TAU Protein (Beta 2
Transferrin, CSF)
See CSF-
Tau protein
Molecul
ar
TCR Beta Clonality Interpretative comment
given
14 days Must arrive in
laboratory as soon
as possible
Molecul
ar
TCR Gamma
Clonality
Interpretative comment
given
14 days
Biochem Teicoplanin Interpretative
comment given
7 days Referral Test to
Antimicrobial
Reference
Laboratory
Department of
Microbiology
64. Southmead Hospital
Pathology test list (continued)
Pathology Test List
Immuno Testicular
Antibodies
NEG
POS with clinical
interpretive comment
14-21 days
Referral test to
Protein Reference
Unit, Sheffield
Biochem Testosterone F 16-49yrs 0.5-1.7
nmol/L
F 50yrs and older 0.5-
1.2 nmol/L
M 16-49yrs 8.8-27.9
nmol/L
M 50yrs and older 8.6-
23.4 nmol/L
24 hours Reference intervals
taken from Abbott
Product Alert notice –
September 14th
, 2015
Haem Thalassaemia
Screen
Interpretative
comments given
14 days Contact lab on Ext
33244 or 33245
before taking sample
Sometimes samples
may need to be
referred to King’s
College Hospital,
London for
genotyping.
Biochem Theophylline 10-20 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section.
Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Thiopurine Methyl
Transferase
Normal 35 -79
nmol/gHb/hour
Low 6 -34
nmol/gHb/hour
Deficient <6
nmol/gHb/hour
7 -14 days Request form must
indicate intention to
commence patient on
aziothioprine
Referral Test to
Clinical Biochemistry
Department
City Hospital
Source of reference
range - Clinical
Biochemistry Department
City Hospital
Micro Threadworm Micro
scopy
Sellotape
impression
of anal
margin
attached to
slide
1 day If sellotape not
available then use
moistened perianal
swab submitted in
few mls of saline.
Hcoag Thrombophilia
Screen
x4
14 days All requests must be
authorised by
Consultant
Haematologist.
Contact laboratory for
sample requirements
- Ext 33244 or 33245
65. x2 bottles
Biochem Thyroglobulin Units: ug/L
Where applicable,
interpretative comment
given.
The Beckman
reference interval for
thyroglobulin in a
euthyroid individual is
1.6 to 50 ug/L
48rs Useful in monitoring
patients with thyroid
cancer, sometime
confused with “thyroid
auto-antibodies”
Source of range - expected
values from Beckman kit
insert.
Biochem Anti-thyroglobulin
Antibodies
Units: iu/ml
Where applicable,
interpretative comment
given.
48 hours Paired request with
Thyroglobulin
Useful in monitoring
patients with thyroid
cancer, sometime
confused with “thyroid
auto-antibodies”
Biochem Thyroid Function
Tests
(Profile 8)
*see Patient report for
specific age related
ranges. see TSH, FT4.
Request FT3
separately.
24 hours TSH in all patients,
thyroid hormones as
appropriate according
to clinical details
Biochem Anti-Thyroid
peroxidase (Thyroid
Peroxidase
Antibody/anti TPO)
POS/NEG
Units IU/ml
24 hours Expected values
from kit insert
Biochem Thyroid Stimulating
Hormone
Adults (19+ yrs) - 0.35-
4.94 mIU/L
*see Patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults.
Micro Tip Culture eg line,
wire, tube
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
2 days Please state the
name of the site in
the clinical details
and on the specimen.
Micro Tissue
Mycobacteria -
Culture
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
up to 12
weeks
Micro Tissue
Mycobacteria -
Microscopy
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
1 day
Micro Tissue Routine -
Culture
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
4 days Under aseptic
conditions transfer
material to a sterile
universal container
that does not contain
formalin as this
inactivates pathogens
very rapidly.
Micro Tissue Routine -
Microscopy
Sterile wide
mouthed
container
1 day
Immuno Tissue
Transglutaminase
Anti
POS/NEG 10 days For coeliac disease
H&I Tissue Type, HLA
Class I and Class II
3x
edta
7 days
66. H&I Tissue Type, HLA
Class I only
3x
edta
7 days Usually for disease
association requests
H&I Tissue Type, HLA
class II only
3x
edta
7 days Usually for disease
association requests
Biochem Tobramycin Units mg/L 24 hours Trough level should
be taken immediately
before a dose. Peak
should usually be
taken an hour after a
dose. State drug
regime and time of
last dose on sample.
When Tobramycin is
being given once daily,
a trough level of
>1mg/L indicates the
need to increase the
interval between
doses.
Further advice is
available via the on
call microbiologist via
30010 or bleep via the
switchboard
Biochem Total Protein Adult (19+yrs) 60-80
g/L.
*see Patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Caliper study values
for children and
Pathology Harmony
reference interval for
adults.
Micro Toxocara Canis
Antibody Screen
14 days This test is referred to
the Hospital for
Tropical Diseases,
London
Micro Toxoplasma
Antibody Screen
3 days
Biochem Transferrin Units: g/L
*see patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Caliper study values
for children and
expected values
from kit insert for
adults.
Biochem Transferrin
Saturation
16-45% 24hrs Reference source:
Upper limit from
EASL Clinical Practice
Guideline for
haemochromatosis.
Please note that the
lower limit is under
review pending new
National Guidelines
67. being published.
Biochem Triglyceride Adult (19+yrs) 0.4-1.7
mmol/L
*see patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Caliper study values
for children and
expected values
from kit insert for
adults.
Triglyceride
concentration > 12
mmol/L indicates
severe
hypertriglyceridaemi
a and a high risk of
pancreatitis
Biochem Troponin I F: +15days : 3-16ug/L
M: +15days: 3-34 ng/L
*see patient reports for
age related reference
ranges in children
<15days old.
24 hours Sample should be
taken at least 6 hours
after the onset of
worst chest pain
Neonatal reference
interval from the
Caliper study and
expected values for
adults taken from kit
insert.
Troponin I >34 ng/L in
males and >16 ng/L
in females is
indicative of
myocardial damage,
but not its cause.
Note that elevated
Troponin I
concentrations may
be seen in conditions
other than ACS. For
exclusion of ACS
samples should be
taken at least 3-6
hours after the time of
worst chest pain.
Biochem Tumour markers Please
phone Duty
Biochemist
to discuss
marker
Please phone Duty
Biochemist to discuss
Micro Ulcer swab Pink top E-
swab
2 days Please state the
name of the site in
the clinical details
and on the specimen.
Biochem Urea Adults/16+ yrs: 2.5-7.8
mmol/L
*see patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
24 hours Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
68. Biochem Urate (Uric Acid) F: Adult (19+yrs) 140 –
360 umol/L
M:Adult (19+yrs) 220 -
430 umol/L
*see patient report for
specific age related
ranges
24hrs Caliper study values
for children and
Pathology Harmony
reference interval
for adults.
Cyto Urine (malignant
cells)
25ml white
top universal
5 days*
*>50%
reported
within 5
days -
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.>
Reference should be
made to special notes
in the Cytopathology
section.
Biochem Urine Albumin Urine 24hr
plain
0-30 mg/24hr 24hrs Reference range :
Annals of Clinical
Biochemistry 50(4)
296–300
Biochem Urine Albumin:
creatinine ratio
Universal e
arly am
F < 3.5, M <2.5
mg/mmol
24 hours Expected values from
test kit. It is not
appropriate to
perform this test on a
urine which tests
positive for protein
using a "dipstick"
Biochem Urine Calcium Plain rando
m urine
No reference range
quoted.
Units: mmol/L
24 hours Random sample
often helpful. Contact
duty biochemist to
discuss if required.
Biochem 24hr Urine Calcium 24hr plain
urine
2.5-7.5 mmol/24hr 24hrs Tietz textbook of
Clinical Chemistry
Biochem Urine
Calcium:Creatinine
ratio
24hr plain
urine
Urine
Calcium:Creatinine
ratio – Adults <0.6
The values for children
quoted in the literature
vary considerably but
they are higher than
those seen in adults
and decline slowly with
increasing age. For
example-
<7mths <2.42
7-18 mths <1.69
19mths-6yrs <1.18
24hrs Adult and paediatric
ranges sourced:
J.Paediatrics 123 (3)
393-7, Sep.93
Micro Urine Chlamydia
Antigen PCR
Sterile
plastic
Universal
3 days
Biochem
Urine Citrate (24
hr)
Plain 24 hr 1.52 – 7.00
mmol/24hrs
14-21 days
Referral Test to
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Specialist Biochemistry.
Southampton General
69. Hospital
Biochem Urine Creatinine Urine 24hr
plain
No reference range
quoted.
Units: mmol/24hr
24hr
Micro Urine
Culture Routine
Sterile
plastic
universal
with boric
acid
1 day Fill container to the
line. If low sample
volume (<5ml)
remove the boric acid
crystals first.
Biochem
Urine Cystine (24hr) Plain 24hr Units: umol/24hrs
Interpretative
comments given
14-21 days
Referral Test to
South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe
Hospital
Source of reference
range - South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe Hospital
Micro Urine
Cytomegalovirus
Sterile
plastic
universal
14 days Must arrive in
laboratory as soon as
possible.
Biochem Urine Drugs of
Abuse Screen
Universal Interpretative comment
given
2-3 days It is essential to list all
drugs/medications on
the request form
Biochem Urine Ethanol
(Alcohol)
Plain
random
urine
Units mg/dL
UK Legal driving limit
for urine ethanol =
107mg/100ml.
Urine ethanol: To
convert mg/100ml to
mmol/L = x0.216
24hrs
Hcoag Urine Haemosiderin Universal 3 days
Biochem Urine Kidney Stone
Screen- consisting
of Urine Calcium,
Phosphate, Urate,
Chloride, Cystine
and oxalate.
Universal Urine Calcium,
phosphate, urate – In
house.
Urine Cystine, Citrate
and Oxalate – referred
tests see individual
test.
6 weeks Referral Test to
South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe
Hospital
Source of reference
range - South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe Hospital
Micro Urine Legionella
Antigen Detection
Sterile
plastic
universal
with boric
acid
1 day Please contact
Laboratory on 52376
prior to submitting
request.
Biochem Urine Magnesium Plain
random
urine
No reference range
quoted.
Units: mmol/L
24 hrs Random sample
often helpful. Contact
duty biochemist to
discuss if required.
Biochem 24hr Urine
Magnesium
24 hr Plain
urine
2.4-6.5 mmol/24hr 24 hrs Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem
Urine
Metanephrines
(24hr)
24hr Plain
Normetadrenaline
Male <5.3 µmol/24hr
Female<4.3µmol/24hr
Metadrenaline
<2.0 µmol/24hr
3-Methoxytyramine
0-18 yrs <2.80 µmol/24hr
18-39 yrs <2.80 µmol/24hr
40-60 yrs <2.60 µmol/24hr
>60 yrs <2.30 µmol/24hr
14 days
Source of range –
Salford Hospital (NMT &
MT), 3-MT set according to
Clin Chem 2006, 52(11),
2060-4.
Paediatric results are
calculated as
Catecholamine /
70. Creatinine ratios and
interpreted on the
basis of reference
ranges (Ref: Reed et al.
Ann. Clin. Biochem. 1991,
28; 297 – 298)
Biochem Urine Microalbumin Universal e
arly am
No reference range
quoted.
Units: mg/l
24 hours It is not appropriate to
perform this test on a
urine which tests
positive for protein
using a "dipstick"
Micro Urine Microscopy
Routine Automated
(Not CSU)
Sterile
plastic
universal
with boric
acid
2 days
Micro Urine
Mycobacteria Cultu
re
Sterile
plastic
universal
with boric
acid
up to12
weeks
Biochem Urine Myoglobin Not
available
24 hours Suggest look for
elevated creatine
kinase (CK) and
positive urine dipstix
for haem ("blood")
both of which support
a diagnosis of muscle
breakdown
(rhabdomyolysis)
Biochem
Urine Oxalate
(24 hr)
Plain 24hr
0.04 – 0.5 mmol/24hr
Interpretative
comments given
14-21 days
Referral Test to
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospita
Source of reference
range - Southampton
Specialist Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem
Urine pH Universal
(FULL)
Unit: pH
No reference range
given
2hr
A full specimen pot is
required and must be
received in lab as
soon as possible and
analysed with 2 hours
of collection.
Notify Duty
Biochemist in
advance, when
requesting this test.
Biochem Urine Phosphate Plain 24hr 15-50 mmol/24hr 24 hrs Pathology Harmony
range
Micro Urine
Pneumococcal
Antigen
Sterile
plastic
universal
with boric
acid
Same day Please contact
Laboratory on 52376
prior to submitting
request.
Biochem Urine Potassium Plain 24hr 25-125 mmol/24hr 24 hrs Tietz textbook of
Clinical Chemistry
Biochem Specimen must be
analysed within 24hrs
of collection.
71. Urine Pregnancy Universal
(EMU)
POS/NEG 24hrs Boric Acid
preservative
collection pot
unsuitable
Biochem Urine Protein Plain 24hr 0 - 0.3g/24hr 24 hours National Kidney
Foundation – Kidney
Disease Outcomes
Quality Initiative
recommendation
Biochem Urine Protein:
Creatinine Ratio
Universal 2
nd void am
(not EMU)
<15 mg/mmol 24 hours Reference range –
UK eCKD Guide
2017
Biochem Urine Sodium Plain 24
hr*
40-220 mmol/24 hr 24 hours * Random sample
also useful urinary
sodium >20mmol/L
makes sodium
deficiency unlikely
and is consistent with
adrenal failure and
with SIADH/chronic
hypodilution.
Reference source -
Tietz textbook of
Clinical Chemistry
Biochem Urine Toxicology
(Save)
Universal Interpretative comment
given
N/A Referred to various
specialist centres.
This analyses are
performed in
specialist centres and
results are not
available for
immediate
management of
patients. Samples will
be stored frozen
unless specifically
discussed with a
Consultant.
Biochem Urine Urate (Uric
Acid)
Plain 24hr 1.5-4.5 mmol/24hr 24hrs Pathology Harmony
range
Biochem Valproate
Pre-dose
24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section. Pre-dose
sample required
Haem Variant
Haemoglobin
identification
Interpretative comment
given
14 days Contact lab on Ext
33244 or 33245
before taking sample
Sometimes samples
may need to be
referred to King’s
College Hospital,
London for
genotyping and/or
IEF
Biochem Vancomycin
Pre-dose
Optimal range for pre-
dose is 10-20mg/L.
See guidelines on
intranet concerning
how to dose
24 hours Trough level should
be taken immediately
before a dose. Peak
should usually
be taken an hour