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Relaxin

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA

‍

Minimum sample size

1 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

3 working days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Relaxin is first detectable by week 4 of pregnancy, peaks at the 6-8th week then decreases.
Sample is stable at 2-8^oC for < 48 hours, then freeze.
Haemolysis could obscure a weak positive result with the RIM methodology

‍

States

Renal monitoring panel

Suitable collection

PC
LH
EDTA (for PCV)
Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2ml blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Includes PCV, urea, creatinine, K, PO₄ and urine SG.

‍

States

Renin (see aldosterone)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

5 working days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

See aldosterone for information.

‍

States

Respiratory PCR panel - canine*

Suitable collection

Nasal or deep pharyngeal swab (see comment)
BAL or TTA fluid

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood

‍

Minimum sample size

Swab

‍

Turnaround time

7 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

PCR is a highly sensitive and specific method of testing for infectious canine Upper Respiratory Tract Disease (URTD). Sampling should ideally be performed early in the disease course. Increased chronicity, previous treatment and prior vaccination can reduce the expression of organisms on epithelial cells. The best samples for Canine Respiratory PCR contain large numbers of epithelial cells with minimal other material. Swabs with large amounts of ocular or nasal discharge may not be diagnostic. Sampling sites should be selected based on the clinical presentation, and may include nasal swabs, deep pharyngeal swabs, ocular swabs and swabs or fluid from a trans-tracheal wash (TTW) or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). The swabs (plastic shaft only) should be placed in a single sterile container. The swab stems can be shortened using sterile scissors to fit the swabs into the tube. Do not place swabs in bacterial culture transport media. Label the container and keep the samples cool prior to sending to the laboratory for testing. If culture is also required, please submit a separate swab in transport media. If cytology is also required for TTW or BAL samples, please submit separate EDTA fluid and slides

Panel includes:

Bordetella bronchiseptica
Canine Adenovirus type 2
Canine Herpesvirus type 1
Canine Parainfluenza virus
Mycoplasma cynos
Mycoplasma canis

‍

States

Respiratory PCR panel - equine*

Suitable collection

BAL or TW in EDTA
Swab (not in culture media)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood

‍

Minimum sample size

1ml fluid

‍

Turnaround time

7 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Panel includes:

Equine Herpesvirus 1
Equine Herpesvirus 4
Rhodococcus equi
Streptococcus equi subsp. equi
Chlamydia psittaci

‍

States

Respiratory PCR panel - feline*

Suitable collection

Swab of tears or exudate (see Comments) (not in culture media)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Sample in transport medium.
Frozen sample.

‍

Minimum sample size

Single swab

‍

Turnaround time

7 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Panel includes:

Feline calicivirus
Bordetella bronchiseptica
Chlamydia felis
Feline herpesvirus-1
Cryptococcus spp
Mycoplasma felis

Sampling should ideally be performed early in the disease course. Increased chronicity, previous treatment and prior vaccination can reduce the detection of organisms by reducing their expression on epithelial cells. Latent infection of Herpesvirus cannot be detected by PCR as the virus is sequestered in nerve ganglions and is not expressed on the epithelium. The best samples for Feline Respiratory PCR contain large numbers of epithelial cells with minimal other material. Swabs with large amounts of ocular or nasal discharge may not be diagnostic. Use sterile dry swabs (plastic shaft only) to collect samples. The presence of ointment or other medications in the eye can prevent adequate epithelial collection and interfere with the PCR test and should be avoided. Thoroughly swab the conjunctiva, collecting from both eyes if possible. If nasal discharge is present, roll a sterile dry swab firmly along the nasal planum. A final swab should be used to collect a deep pharyngeal sample. If only a single site can be collected, a deep pharyngeal swab is preferred, however collecting from all three sites increases detection of organisms. The swabs should be placed in a single sterile container. The swab stems can be shortened using sterile scissors to fit the swabs into the tube. Do not place swabs in bacterial culture transport media. Label the container and keep the samples cool prior to sending to the laboratory for testing. If culture is also required, please submit a separate swab in transport media.

States

Reticulocyte Count

Suitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

0.5 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Part of CBC and is automatically done on all anemic samples (small animals)
Can be done separately as part-CBC
Inappropriate for peripheral blood in horses

‍

States

Rodenticide (anticoagulants)*

Suitable collection

For postmortem samples liver is the best sample (preferably frozen)
Vomitus - preferably frozen

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood, urine

‍

Minimum sample size

10 gm minimum, but the more the better

‍

Turnaround time

Allow up to 6 weeks (contact laboratory to confirm expected time for availability of results).

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Quantitative assays for brodifacoum, bromodiolone, warfarin, coumatetrallyl and pindone

‍

States

Ross River Virus Antibody Titre*

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH
CIT
FL

‍

Minimum sample size

>4 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

3-4 weeks

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Virus (serum) neutralisation test (SNT)
The presence of Ab in a single sample only indicates exposure
To confirm a serological diagnosis it is necessary to demonstrate an active infection in the animal as indicated by a rise in the Ab titre
Paired samples should be collected; the first sample should be collected during the acute phase of the disease with the second sample collected from the same animal 2 to 4 weeks later

‍

States

SAA (Serum Amyloid A)

Suitable collection

Whole blood in plain/clot activated tube
Serum
Synovial fluid

‍

Unsuitable collection

Anticoagulated blood
Samples from species other than equine or feline

‍

Minimum sample size

3 mL whole blood (plain/clot activated tube)
1 mL serum
0.5 mL synovial fluid in an EDTA tube

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

SAA is an acute phase protein which is increased as part of the acute phase response.
It is increased in response to a wide range of processes which result in tissue injury; these include bacterial and viral infection, parasitic infestation, surgery, ischaemia, and neoplasia.
SAA is a major acute phase protein in the horse.
Following acute inflammation, SSA shows a rapid increase and peaks within 36-48 hours.
After the resolution of inflammatory disease, there is an equally rapid decrease.

‍

States

SDMA (Symmetric dimethylarginine)*

Suitable collection

PC and LH

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
FL

‍

Minimum sample size

1ml whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

5 working days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

SDMA is now available within the SVS laboratory network.
SDMA should not be run indiscriminately in routine biochemistry profiles, particularly in clinically healthy young to middle aged cats and dogs of any age. In those instances where clinical examination and initial serum biochemistry, TT4 (cats) and urine results indicate that there may be additional value in performing SDMA analysis.

Examples of where SDMA may be useful:• Monitoring of middle aged and older dogs and cats in breeds at high risk of renal disease• IRIS grading of dogs and cats with documented renal insufficiency and concurrent significant muscle mass loss• Dogs and cats with sub-optimal urine concentration not explained by other serum biochemistry, TT4 (cats) or urine results• Non-azotaemic dogs and cats with significant muscle wasting/low muscle mass, particularly if creatinine is within the middle to upper region of the reference interval.

States

Salmonella ID

Suitable collection

Swab
Culture plate
MacConkey agar plate

‍

Unsuitable collection

Dry swabs

‍

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

10 - 14 days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Salmonella culture

Suitable collection

Faeces
Swab

‍

Unsuitable collection

Dry swabs

‍

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

24-48 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Samples should be stored in a cool, dry place; samples do not need to be refrigerated.
A fresh sample is more likely to yield a positive result
Samples stored at room temperature can be cultured for up to 3 days after collection
Samples stored at 4^oC can cultured for up to 4 days after collection.
Multiple cultures at 24 hour intervals are more likely to yield a positive result than single cultures when trying to diagnose Salmonellois in horses.

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States

Seizure Panel - canine

Suitable collection

EDTA (hematology component of CP2). LH is less suitable but can be used.
PC (biochemisty & serology)
FL (glucose)
Urine for the SG component of the CP2

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL of whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

CP2: 24 hours
Cryptococcus Titre: Same day (Mon-Friday 3:00 pm cutoff, Saturday 1:00 pm cutoff)
Neospora & Toxoplasma serology: Run Monday and Thursday. Results are available by noon the next day. Samples must be at the laboratory the night before testing.

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

This panel includes: CP2, Neospora IgG IFA, Toxoplasma IgG & IgM IFA, Cryptococcus titre

‍

States

Seizure panel - feline

Suitable collection

EDTA, PC and FL

‍

Unsuitable collection

LH can be used for CBC but is less suitable.

‍

Minimum sample size

2ml whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

FP2: 24 hours
Cryptococcus Titre: Same day (Mon-Friday 3:00 pm cutoff, Saturday 1:00 pm cutoff)
Coronavirus & Toxoplasma serology: Run Monday and Thursday. Results are available by noon the next day. Samples must be at the laboratory the night before testing.

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Includes: FP2, Toxoplasma IgM and IgG, Cryptococcus and Coronavirus titres.

States

Selenium

Suitable collection

LH
EDTA

Unsuitable collection

Plain clotted

Minimum sample size

3 mL whole blood

Turnaround time

10 - 14 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Senior pet screen

Suitable collection

EDTA
FL
PC

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

1ml in each tube

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Senior pet profile include ALT, ALP, urea, creatinine, glucose and urine SG.
Can include total T4 and/or CBC.

‍

States

Serum Amyloid A (SAA)

Suitable collection

Whole blood in plain/clot activated tube
Serum
Synovial fluid

‍

Unsuitable collection

Anticoagulated blood
Samples from species other than equine or feline

‍

Minimum sample size

3 mL whole blood (plain/clot activated tube)
1 mL serum
0.5 mL synovial fluid in an EDTA tube

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

SAA is an acute phase protein which is increased as part of the acute phase response.
It is increased in response to a wide range of processes which result in tissue injury; these include bacterial and viral infection, parasitic infestation, surgery, ischaemia, and neoplasia.
SAA is a major acute phase protein in the horse.
Following acute inflammation, SSA shows a rapid increase and peaks within 36-48 hours.
After the resolution of inflammatory disease, there is an equally rapid decrease.

‍

States

Serum iron

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

LH
EDTA

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

TIBC (total iron-binding capacity) is no longer available.

‍

States

Serum protein electrophoresis

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

LH
EDTA
Haemolysed samples

‍

Minimum sample size

1 mL whole blood (including total protein and albumin measurements)

‍

Turnaround time

5 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Used primarily to differentiate polyclonal from monoclonal gammopathies.

‍

States

Skin Cytology

Suitable collection

Air dried smears
Sticky tape preparations (especially if suspect Malassezia)
Swab

‍

Unsuitable collection

Single smear

‍

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

24 - 48 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Skin Mites (KOH)

Suitable collection

Skin scraping (eg mineral oil)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Single smear

‍

Turnaround time

24 - 48 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

If Demodex is suspected, deep scrapings are more likely to be diagnostic
If Sarcoptes is suspected, superficial scrapings are more likely to be diagnostic (usually very few mites present)

‍

States

Sodium (Na)

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
FL
CIT

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Sodium: potassium ratio (Na:K)

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Platelets from some species, particularly dogs, contain high concentrations of K and the [K] in serum samples is higher than in LH plasma samples. To minimise this problem when monitoring dogs with hypoadrencorticism, the use of LH samples is recommended.

States

South Africa Export Combo

Suitable collection

PC and EDTA

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2ml EDTA and PC

‍

Turnaround time

7 days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

The combo includes:

Babesia gibsoni smear evaluation
Heartworm concentration
Leishmania infantum IgG IFA
Trypanosoma evansi CAT and smear evaluation

‍

States

South Africa Export Combo plus Brucella canis

Suitable collection

PC and EDTA

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2ml EDTA and PC

Turnaround time

14 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

The combo includes:

Babesia gibsoni smear evaluation
Brucella canis IFA
Heartworm concentration
Leishmania infantum IgG IFA
Trypanosoma evansi CAT and smear evaluation

‍

States

Stains (Gram, Leishmans, India Ink, Z-N)

Suitable collection

Air dried smears
Swab
(Culture)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Single smear

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Streptococcal ID

Suitable collection

Swab
Culture plate

‍

Unsuitable collection

Dry swabs

‍

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

48 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Strychnine*

Suitable collection

Stomach contents or Vomitus - freeze
Bait

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood
Urine

‍

Minimum sample size

50 mL stomach contents frozen

‍

Turnaround time

6 - 8 weeks

‍

General

Urine:Minimum 3-5 mL

Request Poison screen (panel code VDU) in the “Other Tests” section of the request form

Stomach contents or suspected bait material:

Minimum 5g
- The more stomach content submitted the better, to reduce the risk of non-homogenous mixing of poison within the stomach
- Smaller amounts can be tested but this will increase the limit of detection

Request Strychnine (panel code VTO) in the “Other Tests” section of the request form

Contact laboratory for price

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Synovial Fluid Analysis & Cytology

Suitable collection

Direct smear; this is the most important sample to get for cytology
PC/sterile pot if sample is to be cultured (EDTA is not suitable for culture)
EDTA is better for cytology alone (see comment)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

0.5 mL if cell count is to be done

‍

Turnaround time

24 - 48 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

If sufficient fluid, place some in an EDTA tube and the rest in either a PC tube (without activator) or a sterile urine container.

‍

States

T4 - Free (Vetpath)

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Minimum sample size

0.5 ml whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Vetpath is now running a free T4 assay that correlates with the free T4 by Equilibrium Dialysis.

‍

States

T4 - Free by equilibrium dialysis

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

Allow 3 weeks

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

T4 - Total (canine, feline, equine)

Suitable collection

PC (preferred)
LH
EDTA

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

1 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

A decrease in total T4 is a reasonably sensitive, but not very specific test for canine hypothyroidism. Adding a canine TSH increases the sensitivity but not the specificity.
More information on monitoring of therapeutic drugs is available on this website.

‍

States

TLI - Canine

Suitable collection

PC (canine only)
An overnight (>8 hours) fast is recommended prior to blood collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH
FL
CIT
Species other than canine

‍

Minimum sample size

1 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Sensitive and specific test for the diagnosis of canine exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)

‍

States

TLI - Feline (Feline Trypsin-like Immunoreactivity)

Suitable collection

PC - fast for 8 - 12 hours prior to collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH
Hemolysed serum is also not suitable

‍

Minimum sample size

1.5 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

3 weeks

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Fast for 8 - 12 hours prior to sample collection
Species specific assay
Feline TLI is currently only done in the USA (canine TLI is available at VETPATH)

‍

States

TSH (Canine thyroid stimulating hormone)

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Minimum sample size

0.5 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

In approximately 70% of true hypothyroid dogs there is elevated TSH.

‍

States

Taurine*

Suitable collection

Lithium heparin

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
PC
CIT

‍

Minimum sample size

3 ml (at least 1ml plasma is required)

‍

Turnaround time

3 weeks

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Animal should be fasted prior to collection
Avoid haemolysis and lipaemia
Collect at least 1 mL blood in lithium heparin tube
Centrifuge
Transfer plasma (minimum 300 uL) into a plain screw top plastic tube (no additive)
Freeze plasma (ideally for at least 12 hours) and transport frozen
When booking QML courier, specifically request a frozen sample pickup
Before handing sample to courier, check they are correctly equipped for FROZEN sample collection (with DRY ICE or equivalent product).

Comments

Referred test
Sample must be submitted within 4 hours of collection for separation and freezing.

‍

States

QLD

Taylorella (CEM)*

Suitable collection

Aimes medium with charcoal swabs (see comments)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Normal transport media swabs

‍

Minimum sample size

Mares: 1 swab
Stallions: 3 swabs

‍

Turnaround time

At least 48 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Need to use Aimes with charcoal swabs

‍

States

Testosterone

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

3 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

The hCG response test is used to diagnose rigs in horses <3 yo (use oestrone sulphate in horses 3 yo or older).
A client information sheet is available on identification of rigs (DCI-05).
The hCG response test is also used in mules and other animals.
Single testosterone values may also be used to diagnose cryptorchidisim in dogs and cats.

‍

States

Thiamine

Suitable collection

EDTA or LH whole blood, wrapped in foil and frozen

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood (EDTA)

Turnaround time

14 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Thyroid panel - canine

Suitable collection

PC for total T4, free T4, TSH and cholestrol (LH and EDTA can also be used for T4)
(Note: EDTA is not suitable for endocrine tests)

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2ml whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Includes Free T4, total T4, TSH, cholesterol
Note that a total T4 alone is adequate for therapeutic monitoring.

‍

States

Thyroid panel - feline

Suitable collection

PC, LH or EDTA
Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2ml whole blood
2ml urine

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Includes total T4, ALT, ALP, GGT, urea, creatinine, urine SG and urine dipstick

‍

States

Total CO2 (Bicarbonate)

Suitable collection

PC (specimen of choice)
LH (not recommended)

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
CIT
FL

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

The sample is best taken into a vacutainer and taken on ice directly to the laboratory.

‍

States

Total Protein - serum/plasma

Suitable collection

PC - serum protein
LH - plasma protein
EDTA - plasma protein

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Total Solids Protein (TSP)

Suitable collection

Blood (EDTA, PC, LH)
Fluids (eg peritoneal, pleural, synovial)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Measured by refractometer
The TS protein measures all solids in the sample
Lipaemia causes significant positive interference
Hyperbilirubinemia also interferes if moderate-marked
Marked hyperglycemia or azotemia will also affect the results

‍

States

Toxicology screen*

Suitable collection

Stomach contents

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood
Urine

‍

Minimum sample size

10g stomach contents

‍

Turnaround time

2 weeks

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Tests for a variety of toxins including 1080 and strychnine.
This test is not NATA accredited and not suitable for prosecution/legal cases.

‍

States

Toxoplasma Ab titre IFA - Dogs & cats

Suitable collection

PC
EDTA
LH

‍

Unsuitable collection

CIT
Samples from species other than dogs & cats

‍

Minimum sample size

0.5 mL whole blood (100uL serum minimum per titre)

‍

Turnaround time

Test performed Mondays and Thursdays.
Results available by COB.

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

IFA test
Both IgG and IgM available (separately or as a pair)
The IgG titre is used as an indicator of previous exposure
The IgM titre is used to indicate current/active disease

‍

States

Toxoplasma Latex Agglutination Screening Test - All species

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

LH
EDTA

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Tracheal Wash Cytology

Suitable collection

Tracheal wash sample in sterile container (no anticoagulant)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

0.5 mL

‍

Turnaround time

24 - 48 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Triglycerides

Suitable collection

PC
LH (plasma may give lower values)
EDTA

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Trypsin-like Immunoreactivity - Canine

Suitable collection

PC (canine only)
An overnight (>6 hours) fast is recommended prior to blood collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH
FL
CIT
Species other than canine

‍

Minimum sample size

0.5 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Sensitive and specific test for the diagnosis of canine exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)

‍

States

Trypsin-like Immunoreactivity - Feline*

Suitable collection

PC - fast for 18 hours prior to collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH
Hemolysed serum is also not suitable

‍

Minimum sample size

1.5 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

3 weeks

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Fast for 18 hours prior to sample collection
Species specific assay
Feline TLI is currently only done in the USA (canine TLI is available at VETPATH)

‍

States

Urea

Suitable collection

PC
LH
EDTA

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Uric Acid

Suitable collection

PC
LH
EDTA

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Urinalysis (Wet microscopy, biochem + SG)

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2 mL minimum, but >5 mL is much better

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Urinalysis = biochem + SG + wet microscopy

‍

States

Urinary Calculi Analysis - Chemical

Suitable collection

Calculi

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Needs approximately 1cm³

‍

Turnaround time

5 days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Urine Aspergillus check

Suitable collection

Urine (preferably cystocentesis sample)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL minimum, preferably 10 mL to allow concentration

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours, then 24 hours later

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Includes wet microscopy report
Includes urine SG
Sediment is examined again after 24 hours for fungal hyphae in addition to the initial examination

‍

States

Urine Cortisol:Creatinine Ratio (UCCR)*

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL minimum, but >5 mL is much better

Turnaround time

5 days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Screening test to help rule in/out hyperadrenocorticism.

‍

States

Urine Culture & Sensitivity (quantitative, aerobic)

Suitable collection

Urine by cystocentesis is optimal
Urine via catheter
Voided sample
Preferably state how sample collected

‍

Unsuitable collection

Urine with obvious faecal contamination (eg from dirty litter tray)

‍

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

Preliminary Gram stain: 12 hours (if needed).
Culture: 12-24 hours for most organisms (some take longer)
Sensitivity: 48 hours for most organisms (some take longer)

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Samples stored at 4^oC cultured for up to 24 hours after collection give good results
Samples stored at room temperature for up to 2 days and samples stored at 4oC for up to 3 days can be cultured, but both give less reliable results
RT results in overgrowth, 4^oC may kill fastidious organisms

‍

States

Urine Cytology

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2 mL minimum, but >5 mL is much better

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Urine cytology is indicated specifically if neoplasia is suspected, but is not usually necessary for the diagnosis of UT inflammation and/or infection.
Includes wet micro & SG if requested alone

‍

States

Urine GGT:Creatinine Ratio

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL minimum, but >5 mL is much better

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Is used as an indicator of renal tubular damage
Primarily done in animals on aminoglycosides such as gentamycin

‍

States

Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratio (UPC)

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2 mL minimum, but >5 mL is much better

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Quantitates urinary protein loss
Is always run with concurrent urinalysis (included in cost) as active inflammation will influence interpretation of the results.

‍

States

Urine SG (specific gravity)

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

0.5 mL minimum (SG alone)

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Urine Wet Microscopy

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

2 mL minimum, but >5 mL is much better

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Includes SG & pH

‍

States

Urine electrophoresis

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood

‍

Minimum sample size

5ml

Turnaround time

5 days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Urine electrophoresis is a screening test to detect monoclonal protein in the urine.
A narrow based peak in the urine electrophoresis suggests the presence of Bence Jones proteinuria due to multiple myeloma.

‍

States

Urine osmolality

Suitable collection

Urine

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood

‍

Minimum sample size

0.5ml

‍

Turnaround time

48 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Urine osmolality is stable for 3 - 4 days if the sample is refrigerated.

‍

States

Vaccination Status - Canine

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Minimum sample size

1 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

Test performed Wednesdays and Fridays.
Results available by COB.

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Canine Parvovirus (CPV) and Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) are serious viral pathogens in dogs that have been very well controlled with the use of vaccinations. Annual revaccination of dogs has been an industry norm that is being challenged due to increasing proof that protective immunity lasts for longer than one year (and often longer than 4 years) and the knowledge that vaccinations may in some cases have detrimental side effects ranging from anaphylaxis to immune-mediated disease.Rather than merely stopping annual vaccination, dogs may have their immune status assessed to determine whether vaccination is indicated or not. This is particularly pertinent in at risk animals. Serological titre tests have been designed to measure the IgG levels and studies have shown that protection from infection can be determined with these tests.Further studies have shown that the IFA method is comparable to the gold standard haemagglutination test for CPV and the virus neutralisation test for CDV.INTERPRETATION:

Titres of less than 1:5 are considered seronegative and (re) vaccination is recommended.
Titres of >1:5 are considered seropositive.
Titres of >1:5 but <1:20 indicate that revaccination should be considered, especially if disease exposure risk is increased.
Dogs with titres of >1:20 probably do not require revaccination.

‍

States

Vaccination Status - Feline

Suitable collection

Serum (PC)

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Minimum sample size

1 mL whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

Test performed Wednesdays and Fridays.
Results available by COB.

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

These tests are a screening test to determine the level of specific antiviral IgG in the serum. The titre is used as a measure of the humoral immunity.
It has been shown that a titre of 1:5 on IFA is considered the appropriate levels to provide protective immunity. Note that it is possible that lower titres are protective and the influence of the cell mediated response cannot be reliably assessed in this manner.
Cats with a titre of <1:5 may not be adequately protected and should be revaccinated.
Cats with a titre of 1:5 but <1:20 should consider revaccination.
Cats with a titre of 1:20 or greater are considered protected and may not need revaccination. These animals should have their titre rechecked in approximately one year.

‍

States

Vaginal cytology

Suitable collection

Air-dried smear(s)
OR
Swab

‍

Unsuitable collection

Single smear

‍

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

May be used in conjunction with serum progesterone.

‍

States

Vaginal swab (premating)

Suitable collection

Swab (vaginal, preputial)

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

24 hours for culture
48 hours for sensitivity with routine organisms

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Vitamin B12 - Small Animals

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH
Urine

‍

Minimum sample size

0.6 ml whole blood (no less than 280uL serum)

‍

Turnaround time

5 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

Vitamin D (25, hydroxy vit D)

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH

‍

Minimum sample size

2ml whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

3 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

25, hydroxy Vitamin D
see calcitriol for 1,25 hydroxy Vitamin D

‍

States

WBC & Differential Count

Suitable collection

EDTA
LH for some birds and reptiles

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

1.0 mL, but prefer 2 mL
If smear only, WCC will be estimated from the smear

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

LH can be used for a CBC, but platelets and WBCs clump.

‍

States

Wellness Profiles - Canine and feline

Suitable collection

EDTA
PC
FL

‍

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

1ml EDTA
1ml PC

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Includes:

Canine - CBC, TP, alb, glob, gluc, Na, K, Cl, Na/K ratio, Ca, PO4, urea, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP, CK, chol, bili, amylase, lipase, total T4 (no GGT or CRP). Feline - CBC, TP, alb, glob, gluc, Na, K, Cl, Na/K ratio, Ca, PO4, urea, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP, CK, chol, bili, GGT, total T4 (no lipase).

‍

States

Zinc - Avian*

Suitable collection

LH plasma or whole blood in a screw top tube (not in a vacutainer)

Unsuitable collection

PC, EDTA
Samples in vacutainers are not suitable as the stoppers contain zinc

‍

Minimum sample size

300uL plasma (0.7ml whole blood)

‍

Turnaround time

7 days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Samples in vacutainers are not suitable as the stoppers contain zinc.

‍

States

Zinc - Small animal and large animal*

Suitable collection

Trace element tube (navy top)

Unsuitable collection

EDTA, LH, PC

‍

Minimum sample size

300uL plasma (1ml whole blood)

‍

Turnaround time

7 days

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

Samples in vacuatainers are not suitable as the stoppers contain zinc.
Plasma must be separated within 4 hours of collection.

‍

States

von Willebrands Disease (Genetic testing)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

Not available

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

This testing is not done at Vetpath.Options for testing include:

www.orivet.com
Murdoch University Veterinary Hospital (Emergency and Critical Care Department)

‍

States