Laboratory Test Preparation

A CT scan is one of many imaging tests your doctor may use to investigate problems with your spine. This includes pain due to injuries, disease, or infection.

Other reasons your doctor might order a Thoracic Spine CT scan include:

back pain accompanied by fever
birth defects affecting the spine
a herniated disk
infection
injury to the lower spine
low back pain
multiple sclerosis
osteoarthritis
a pinched nerve
problems controlling the bladder
signs of cancer
spinal surgery preparation
weakness, numbness, or other problems with your legs

1. Female patients must notify their doctor if they are or think they might be pregnant, so other options can be discussed with the patient.

2. Fasting is not required

3. Bring test request.
4. Bring the latest CT scan procedure (with the same exam) with Result and Film or CD for comparison on the day of the procedure.

NEXT WORKING DAY 2:00 PM

Q.What does the equipment look like?

A.The CT scanner is typically a large, donut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.

Q:How do I prepare for the Exam?

A. 1. Arrive 1 hour prior to exam time
    2.  No Fasting required

    3. Patients should come in wearing comfortable clothing with no metal in the area to be scanned                    Q. What will Happen during exam? 

A.CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced.Though the scan is painless, you may have some discomfort from remaining still for several minutes or from placement of an IV. If you have a hard time staying still, are very nervous, anxious or in pain, you may find a CT exam stressful. The technologist, under the direction of a doctor, may offer you some medication to help you tolerate the CT exam. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may feel warm or flushed while the contrast is injected. You also may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This will pass. You may feel a need to urinate.

Q.How long will the procedure take and how will I learn my results?    

A.Depending on the scan to be done, and the complexity of the exam requested, the scan could take 10 to 20 minutes, and you will get the results next working day 2:00 pm.           

A CT scan is one of many imaging tests your doctor may use to investigate problems with your spine. This includes pain due to injuries, disease, or infection.

Other reasons your doctor might order a Thoracic Spine CT scan include:

back pain accompanied by fever
birth defects affecting the spine
a herniated disk
infection
injury to the lower spine
low back pain
multiple sclerosis
osteoarthritis
a pinched nerve
problems controlling the bladder
signs of cancer
spinal surgery preparation
weakness, numbness, or other problems with your legs

1. Female patients must notify their doctor if they are or think they might be pregnant, so other options can be discussed with the patient.

2. Discuss with your doctor any recent illness, medical conditions, and medications you are taking.

3. Inform the doctor if you have allergies, especially to shellfish, antibiotics, or iodine-based dye. Your doctor may prescribe you with anti-allergy medications prior to the procedure.

4. Secure a serum creatinine (blood test to know the function of the kidneys) is normal, with result not longer than 7 days, is required. If result is beyond normal limits, you must get a written clearance from your requesting  doctor or nephrologist before proceeding with the procedure.

5. Secure a appointment thru call.

6. If you are taking any anti-diabetic drug (Metformin), you may be asked to discontinue it for at least 48 hours after the contrast is administered and can be taken after the procedure.

7. Perform atleast 4 hours fasting.

8. A night prior the procedure, the patient needs to take 2 tablet of dulcolax 1 hr. after dinner.

9. Bring test request, serum creatinine result and written Nephrologist clearance if needed.

10. Bring the latest CT scan procedure (with the same exam) with Result and Film or CD for comparison on the day of the procedure.

Note:

Possible risks

1. Allergic Reaction

2. Bruising and swelling

3. Kidney problems

4. Radiation

5. Pregnancy

NEXT WORKING DAY 2:00 PM

Q.What does the equipment look like?

A.The CT scanner is typically a large, donut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.

Q:How do I prepare for the Exam?

A. 1. Arrive 1 hour prior to exam time
    2.  4 hours fasting
    3. Patients should come in wearing comfortable clothing with no metal in the area to be scanned                    Q. What will Happen during exam? 

A.CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced.Though the scan is painless, you may have some discomfort from remaining still for several minutes or from placement of an IV. If you have a hard time staying still, are very nervous, anxious or in pain, you may find a CT exam stressful. The technologist, under the direction of a doctor, may offer you some medication to help you tolerate the CT exam. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may feel warm or flushed while the contrast is injected. You also may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This will pass. You may feel a need to urinate.

Q.How long will the procedure take and how will I learn my results?    

A.Depending on the scan to be done, and the complexity of the exam requested, the scan could take 10 to 20 minutes, and you will get the results next working day 2:00 pm.           

3 PHASE CT SCAN LIVER

Triphasic CT scan is a good non-invasive tool and can be used as first line imaging modality for differentiating benign and malignant focal liver lesions.

1. Female patients must notify their doctor if they are or think they might be pregnant, so other options can be discussed with the patient.

2. Discuss with your doctor any recent illness, medical conditions, and medications you are taking.

3. Inform the doctor if you have allergies, especially to shellfish, antibiotics, or iodine-based dye. Your doctor may prescribe you with anti-allergy medications prior to the procedure.

4. Secure a serum creatinine (blood test to know the function of the kidneys) is normal, with result not longer than 7 days, is required. If result is beyond normal limits, you must get a written clearance from your requesting  doctor or nephrologist before proceeding with the procedure.

5. Secure a appointment thru call.

6. If you are taking any anti-diabetic drug (Metformin), you may be asked to discontinue it for at least 48 hours after the contrast is administered and can be taken after the procedure.

7. Perform atleast 6 hours fasting.

8. A night prior the procedure, the patient needs to take 2 tablet of dulcolax 1 hr. after dinner.

9. Bring test request, serum creatinine result and written Nephrologist clearance if needed.

10. Bring the latest CT scan procedure (with the same exam) with Result and Film or CD for comparison on the day of the procedure.

Note:

Possible risks

1. Allergic Reaction

2. Bruising and swelling

3. Kidney problems

4. Radiation

5. Pregnancy

NEXT WORKING DAY 2:00 PM

Q.What does the equipment look like?

A.The CT scanner is typically a large, donut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.

Q:How do I prepare for the Exam?

A. 1. Arrive 1 hour prior to exam time
    2.  6 hours fasting
    3. Patients should come in wearing comfortable clothing with no metal in the area to be scanned                    Q. What will Happen during exam? 

A.CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced. Though the scan is painless, you may have some discomfort from remaining still for several minutes or from placement of an IV. If you have a hard time staying still, are very nervous, anxious or in pain, you may find a CT exam stressful. The technologist, under the direction of a doctor, may offer you some medication to help you tolerate the CT exam. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may feel warm or flushed while the contrast is injected. You also may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This will pass. You may feel a need to urinate.

Q.How long will the procedure take and how will I learn my results?    

A.Depending on the scan to be done, and the complexity of the exam requested, the scan could take 10 to 20 minutes, and you will get the results next working day 2:00 pm.           

Used to assess the pancreas for tumors and other lesions, injuries, bleeding, infections, abscesses, unexplained abdominal pain, obstructions, or other conditions, particularly when another type of examination, such as X-rays or physical examination, is not conclusive.

1. Female patients must notify their doctor if they are or think they might be pregnant, so other options can be discussed with the patient.

2. Discuss with your doctor any recent illness, medical conditions, and medications you are taking.

3. Inform the doctor if you have allergies, especially to shellfish, antibiotics, or iodine-based dye. Your doctor may prescribe you with anti-allergy medications prior to the procedure.

4. Secure a serum creatinine (blood test to know the function of the kidneys) is normal, with result not longer than 7 days, is required. If result is beyond normal limits, you must get a written clearance from your requesting  doctor or nephrologist before proceeding with the procedure.

5. Secure a appointment thru call.

6. If you are taking any anti-diabetic drug (Metformin), you may be asked to discontinue it for at least 48 hours after the contrast is administered and can be taken after the procedure.

7. Perform atleast 6 hours fasting.

8. A night prior the procedure, the patient needs to take 2 tablet of dulcolax 1 hr. after dinner.

9. Bring test request, serum creatinine result and written Nephrologist clearance if needed.

10. Bring the latest CT scan procedure (with the same exam) with Result and Film or CD for comparison on the day of the procedure.

Note:

Possible risks

1. Allergic Reaction

2. Bruising and swelling

3. Kidney problems

4. Radiation

5. Pregnancy

NEXT WORKING DAY 2:00 PM

Q.What does the equipment look like?

A.The CT scanner is typically a large, donut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.

Q:How do I prepare for the Exam?

A. 1. Arrive 1 hour prior to exam time
    2.  6 hours fasting
    3. Patients should come in wearing comfortable clothing with no metal in the area to be scanned                    Q. What will Happen during exam? 

A.CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced. Though the scan is painless, you may have some discomfort from remaining still for several minutes or from placement of an IV. If you have a hard time staying still, are very nervous, anxious or in pain, you may find a CT exam stressful. The technologist, under the direction of a doctor, may offer you some medication to help you tolerate the CT exam. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may feel warm or flushed while the contrast is injected. You also may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This will pass. You may feel a need to urinate.

Q.How long will the procedure take and how will I learn my results?    

A.Depending on the scan to be done, and the complexity of the exam requested, the scan could take 10 to 20 minutes, and you will get the results next working day 2:00 pm.           

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of triphasic spiral CT in differentiating benign from malignant focal tumoral liver lesions. ... Conclusion: Triphasic CT Scan is a good non-invasive tool in characterizing and differentiating benign from malignant upper abdomen lesions.

1. Female patients must notify their doctor if they are or think they might be pregnant, so other options can be discussed with the patient.

2. Discuss with your doctor any recent illness, medical conditions, and medications you are taking.

3. Inform the doctor if you have allergies, especially to shellfish, antibiotics, or iodine-based dye. Your doctor may prescribe you with anti-allergy medications prior to the procedure.

4. Secure a serum creatinine (blood test to know the function of the kidneys) is normal, with result not longer than 7 days, is required. If result is beyond normal limits, you must get a written clearance from your requesting  doctor or nephrologist before proceeding with the procedure.

5. Secure a appointment thru call.

6. If you are taking any anti-diabetic drug (Metformin), you may be asked to discontinue it for at least 48 hours after the contrast is administered and can be taken after the procedure.

7. Perform atleast 6 hours fasting.

8. A night prior the procedure, the patient needs to take 2 tablet of dulcolax 1 hr. after dinner.

9. Bring test request, serum creatinine result and written Nephrologist clearance if needed.

10. Bring the latest CT scan procedure (with the same exam) with Result and Film or CD for comparison on the day of the procedure.

Note:

Possible risks

1. Allergic Reaction

2. Bruising and swelling

3. Kidney problems

4. Radiation

5. Pregnancy

NEXT WORKING DAY 2:00 PM

Q.What does the equipment look like?

A.The CT scanner is typically a large, donut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.

Q:How do I prepare for the Exam?

A. 1. Arrive 1 hour prior to exam time
    2.  6 hours fasting
    3. Patients should come in wearing comfortable clothing with no metal in the area to be scanned                    Q. What will Happen during exam? 

A.CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced. Though the scan is painless, you may have some discomfort from remaining still for several minutes or from placement of an IV. If you have a hard time staying still, are very nervous, anxious or in pain, you may find a CT exam stressful. The technologist, under the direction of a doctor, may offer you some medication to help you tolerate the CT exam. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may feel warm or flushed while the contrast is injected. You also may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This will pass. You may feel a need to urinate.

Q.How long will the procedure take and how will I learn my results?    

A.Depending on the scan to be done, and the complexity of the exam requested, the scan could take 10 to 20 minutes, and you will get the results next working day 2:00 pm.           

To assess the diagnostic accuracy of triphasic spiral CT in differentiating benign from malignant focal tumoral liver lesions. ... Conclusion: Triphasic CT Scan is a good non-invasive tool in characterizing and differentiating benign from malignant upper and lower abdomen lesions.

1. Female patients must notify their doctor if they are or think they might be pregnant, so other options can be discussed with the patient.

2. Discuss with your doctor any recent illness, medical conditions, and medications you are taking.

3. Inform the doctor if you have allergies, especially to shellfish, antibiotics, or iodine-based dye. Your doctor may prescribe you with anti-allergy medications prior to the procedure.

4. Secure a serum creatinine (blood test to know the function of the kidneys) is normal, with result not longer than 7 days, is required. If result is beyond normal limits, you must get a written clearance from your requesting  doctor or nephrologist before proceeding with the procedure.

5. Secure a appointment thru call.

6. If you are taking any anti-diabetic drug (Metformin), you may be asked to discontinue it for at least 48 hours after the contrast is administered and can be taken after the procedure.

7. Perform atleast 6 hours fasting.

8. A night prior the procedure, the patient needs to take 2 tablet of dulcolax 1 hr. after dinner.

9. Bring test request, serum creatinine result and written Nephrologist clearance if needed.

10. Bring the latest CT scan procedure (with the same exam) with Result and Film or CD for comparison on the day of the procedure.

Note:

Possible risks

1. Allergic Reaction

2. Bruising and swelling

3. Kidney problems

4. Radiation

5. Pregnancy

NEXT WORKING DAY 2:00 PM

Q.What does the equipment look like?

A.The CT scanner is typically a large, donut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.

Q:How do I prepare for the Exam?

A. 1. Arrive 1 hour prior to exam time
    2.  6 hours fasting
    3. Patients should come in wearing comfortable clothing with no metal in the area to be scanned                    

Q. What will Happen during exam? 

A.CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced. Though the scan is painless, you may have some discomfort from remaining still for several minutes or from placement of an IV. If you have a hard time staying still, are very nervous, anxious or in pain, you may find a CT exam stressful. The technologist, under the direction of a doctor, may offer you some medication to help you tolerate the CT exam. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may feel warm or flushed while the contrast is injected. You also may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This will pass. You may feel a need to urinate.

Q.How long will the procedure take and how will I learn my results?    

A.Depending on the scan to be done, and the complexity of the exam requested, the scan could take 10 to 20 minutes, and you will get the results next working day 2:00 pm.           

is a diagnostic modality that has been introduced recently for the work-up of patients with penetrating injuries to the back or flank. Triple-contrast CT consists of giving oral, intravenous (IV), and rectal contrast medium.

Fasting 4 hours

1. Female patients must notify their doctor if they are or think they might be pregnant, so other options can be discussed with the patient.

2. Discuss with your doctor any recent illness, medical conditions, and medications you are taking.

3. Inform the doctor if you have allergies, especially to shellfish, antibiotics, or iodine-based dye. Your doctor may prescribe you with anti-allergy medications prior to the procedure.

4. Secure a serum creatinine (blood test to know the function of the kidneys) is normal, with result not longer than 7 days, is required. If result is beyond normal limits, you must get a written clearance from your requesting  doctor or nephrologist before proceeding with the procedure.

5. Secure a appointment thru call.

6. If you are taking any anti-diabetic drug (Metformin), you may be asked to discontinue it for at least 48 hours after the contrast is administered and can be taken after the procedure.

7. Perform atleast 6 hours fasting.

8. A night prior the procedure, the patient needs to take 2 tablet of dulcolax 1 hr. after dinner.

9. Bring test request, serum creatinine result and written Nephrologist clearance if needed.

10. Bring the latest CT scan procedure (with the same exam) with Result and Film or CD for comparison on the day of the procedure.

Note:

Possible risks

1. Allergic Reaction

2. Bruising and swelling

3. Kidney problems

4. Radiation

5. Pregnancy

NEXT WORKING DAY 2:00 PM

RadiologyInfo.Org

Q.What does the equipment look like?

A.The CT scanner is typically a large, donut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the center. You will lie on a narrow examination table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.

Q:How do I prepare for the Exam?

A. 1. Arrive 1 hour prior to exam time
    2.  6 hours fasting
    3. Patients should come in wearing comfortable clothing with no metal in the area to be scanned                    Q. What will Happen during exam? 

A.CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. With multidetector CT, the amount of time that the patient needs to lie still is reduced.Though the scan is painless, you may have some discomfort from remaining still for several minutes or from placement of an IV. If you have a hard time staying still, are very nervous, anxious or in pain, you may find a CT exam stressful. The technologist, under the direction of a doctor, may offer you some medication to help you tolerate the CT exam. If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may feel warm or flushed while the contrast is injected. You also may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This will pass. You may feel a need to urinate.

Q.How long will the procedure take and how will I learn my results?    

A.Depending on the scan to be done, and the complexity of the exam requested, the scan could take 10 to 20 minutes, and you will get the results next working day 2:00 pm.

Not applicable

Not applicable

Used to determine Cyanide level in a blood sample.

Colorimetric

Special Test

No patient preparation necessary.

EDTA or Violet

3 pcs of 4 mL EDTA whole blood

3 pcs of 4 mL whole blood (Sodium Heparin or Sodium Fluoride)

14 Days

14 Days

30 Days

Transport specimen at 2°C - 8°C (with cold packs)

• Improperly labeled specimens
• Clotted specimens
• Over-filled or Under-filled tube
• Quantity not sufficient
• Specimen stored and transported outside the required temperature

Batch Running

Monday, 12:00 PM

2 Weeks after cut-off (Excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Available upon request

None specified

Not applicable

Inhibits respiratory enzymes.

• Gengraf
• Neoral
• Sandimmune
• CyA
• CyA C2

Not applicable

Used to monitor the adequacy of drug levels in the management of heart, liver, kidney, lung and bone marrow transplant patients receiving cyclosporine therapy.

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Immunology

• If request is only CyA, collect as TROUGH sample (generally 30 minutes before the next dose).
• If request is CyA C2, collect sample 2 hours after the last dose (peak levels)
• Provide the Cyclosporine dosage, date and time of last intake and sample collection. This information is important to help requesting clinicians interpret the result.
• NOTE: If the Clinician has different instruction, follow Clinician’s order as to when sample collection must be done.
• Sample should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. >5.00 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.
• Do not use samples from patients under Itraconazole treatment (INN international nonproprietary name).

EDTA

2 mL EDTA whole blood (K2- or K3- EDTA only)

Not applicable

5 Days

7 Days

6 Months

NOTE: Freeze only once

Transport specimen at 2-10°C (with cold packs)

• Markedy lipemic specimen
• Exceeded sample stability requirement
• Quantity not sufficient
• Improperly labeled specimen
• Improper collection tube used
• Clotted sample
• Over - filled and Under - filled tube
• Heat inactivated specimens
• Samples stabilized with azide

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday

6:00 PM

RUNNING TIME: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM

TAT: 4:00 PM onwards on running day

* No firm therapeutic range exists for cyclosporine in whole blood.

NOTE: Therapeutic range may vary with transplant type, protocol, clinical situation, timing of sample collection. This result should be interpreted by the attending physician.

• Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. >5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.
• An interaction with Itraconazole (INN international nonproprietary name) was found. Do not use samples from patients under Itraconazole treatment.
• In rare cases , interference due to extremely high titers of antibodies to analyte - specific antibodies, streptavidin or ruthenium can occur.

Q: What is this test for?
A: Determination of cyclosporine level in the blood is done to establish a dosing regimen, maintain therapeutic levels, and detect toxic levels.

Q: Test Preparation Needed?
A: If request is for a Trough level (lowest concentration of drug in the blood), blood is collected 30 minutes before the next dose. If once a day of administer, extraction should be after 23 - 24 hrs after the last dose. If twice a day of administer, extraction should be after 11 - 12 hrs after the last dose. If request is for CYA C2 (peak levels), blood is collected 2 hours after the last dose.

Q: Why is the last dosage recorded during blood extraction?
A:  This information is important to help requesting clinicians interpret the result.

Q: Who should get tested?
A: Patients who are taking Cyclosporine drug (mostly transplant patients).

Organ Transplant, Immuno suppressant, Immuno suppressant agent

• Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibody
• COVID-19 Total Ab
• 2019-nCoV Total Antibody Detection (Qualitative)
• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Antibody

Not applicable

Used for qualitative detection of 2019-nCoV (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Immunology

• Patient should wear a face mask when entering the testing facility.
• Patient should inform HP staffs if they are experiencing or have experienced symptoms associated with COVID-19 (Fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle ache, headache, chest pain, sore throat, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, Rhinorrhea).
• COVID-19 Antibodies Test is recommended 14 days after diagnosis of COVID. However, it is the doctor’s prerogative to request when he deems necessary.

• Walk in/Home Service: Gold tube
• Send in: Gold tube/Red tube

1 – 2 mL Serum

1-2mL Plasma (Li-heparin, K2 or K3 – EDTA)

3 Days

7 Days

28 Days (can be frozen twice)

Transport specimen at 2 – 8 °C (with cold packs)

• No prescribed laboratory request form from a Medical Practitioner
• Wrong collection tube
• Specimens showing bacterial contamination
• Hemolyzed samples
• Markedly lipemic samples.
• Improperly labeled samples.
• Insufficient volume of samples.
• Exceeded sample stability requirement, repeated freezing and thawing of samples.

Daily

6:00 PM

ROUTINE:8 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger

STAT: 4 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger

• COI: < 1.00 = Negative (Negative for SARS-CoV-2 Ab)
• COI: >/= 1.00 = Positive (Positive for SARS-CoV-2 Ab)

Note:

• A negative test result does not completely rule out the possibility of an infection with SARS-CoV-2. Serum or plasma samples from the very early (pre-seroconversion) phase can yield negative findings. Therefore, this test cannot be used to diagnose an acute infection. Also, over time, titers may decline and eventually become negative. An RT-PCR may be recommended by the Physician/Health Care Provider.
• A positive test result indicates presence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the sample. Consult your Health Care Provider / Physician. A PCR based test may be requested for confirmation.

• No impact on results was observed for samples with Biotin concentration of
• Potential endogenous interferences e.g. hemolysis, bilirubin, rheumatoid factors and pharmaceutical compounds other than biotin have not been tested and an interference cannot be excluded.
• No false negative results due to a high-dose hook effect were found with the Elecsys Anti SARS  CoV 2 assay but occurrence of high-dose hook effect cannot be completely excluded.
• In rare cases, interference due to extremely high titers of antibodies to analyte specific antibodies, streptavidin or ruthenium can occur. These effects are minimized by suitable test design.
• For diagnostic purposes, the results should always be assessed in conjunction with the patient’s medical history, clinical examination and other findings.

Q: Can COVID-19 Antibodies test be used as a stand-alone test to diagnose COVID-19?

A:  No, all antibody test kits  cannot be used as a stand-alone test to definitively diagnose COVID-19, RT-PCR kit still remain to be the gold standard in determining if the person is infected or infectious.

Q: When is the best time to have the COVID-19  Antibodies testing?

A: COVID-19 Total Antibodies testing is recommended 14 days after diagnosis of COVID, however, it is the doctor’s prerogative to request when he deems necessary.

Q: Who can prescribe and interpret COVID-19 antibodies test result?

A: ONLY medical doctors can prescribe and interpret the use of the antibody-based test kits. These kits will not be available over the counter.

Q: Who are at a higher risk in having severe illness from COVID-19?

A: Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical condition may be at higher risk for more severe complications from COVID-19.

Reference:DEPARTMENT CIRCULAR No. 2020 -_0160  Guidance on Use of COVID-19 Rapid Antibody-based Test Kits

Q:What are the test sensitivities in the days after symptom onset?

A:Diagnostic Test Sensitivity in the Days After Symptom Onset:

• 1-7 days after onset of symptoms: 38%
• 8-14 days after onset of symptoms: 90%
• 15-39 days after onset of symptoms: 100%

2019-nCoV IgG/IgM Antibody Detection, Corona virus disease, SARS-CoV-2, Flu disease

• Rapid Test COVID-19 Ag
• SARS-CoV-2 Antigen
• COVID-19 Ag Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT)
• COVID-19 Ag Rapid Test
• SARS CoV-1 Ag Test

Not applicable

• Used for qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigen (Ag) in human nasopharyngeal swab.
• Used as an aid in the diagnosis of SAR-CoV-2 infection

Rapid immunochromatography

Molecular Diagnostics

• COVID-19 Antigen (Rapid) testing is most useful during the acute phase of the desease when the viral load is high, which is within 5 days after onset of symptoms, however, it is the doctor's prerogative to request when he deems necessary. Note: A doctor's request ismandatory.
• Present a valid ID with picture to Reception and Sample Collectors:

SAMPLE COLLECTION:

1.For walk in patients,sample collection is available by schedule in selected branches. (Please check website for contact details and branches available for collection).

2.For Sample Collectors: Wear proper PPEs and practice safety procedures in handling specimens.

3. If the patient has a lot of mucous in his/her nose, this can interfere with the collection of cells. Patient should use a tissue to gently clean out visible nasal mucous before a swab is taken. Discard tissue used as biohazard waste.

Extraction Tube of COVID-19 Ag Kit

Nasopharyngeal Swab

Not applicable

• Room Temperature (15-30'C) - 2 hours
• Refrigerated Temperature (2-8'C) - Not acceptable
• Freezer Temperature (-20'C or lower) - Not acceptable

          Note:Direct swab samples should be tested immediately after collection.

Room Temperature (15-30'C) - 2 hours

Not acceptable

Not acceptable

• Transport sample to Laboratory ASAP at room temperature

• Exceeded sample stability requirement
• Improper labeled sample
• Improper collection tube used
• Sample other than nasopharygeal swab
• Incorrect volume of buffer used

Daily

6;00 PM

ROUTINE:  4 hours after receipt of sample

STAT:         2 1/2 hours after receipt of sample

Negative result:The presence of onl the control line (C) and no test line (T) within thge result window indicates a negative result.

Comment:A negative test result does not eliminate the possibility of SAR-CoV-2 infection and should be confirmed by aMolecular assay. Consult your doctor.

Positive result:The presence of the test line (T) and the control line (C) within the result window, regradless of which line appears first, indicates a positive result.

Note:The presence of any test line (T), no matter how faint, indicates a positive result.

Comment:Results may be confirmed with aMolecular assay. Consult yur doctor.

Invalid result:If the control line (C) is not visible within the result window after performing the test, the result is considered invalid.

• Positive test results do not rule out co-infections with other pathogens.
• For further information on immune status, additional follow -up testing using other laboratory methods is recommended.
• Test results must be evaluated in conjunction with other clinical date available to the physician.
• This COVI-19 Ag Rapid Test Device is not intended to detect from defective (N=non-infectious) virus during the later stages of viral shedding that might be detected by PCR moleculat tests.

Q:What is COVID-19 Ag Rapid Test?

A:Anin vitrodiagnostics rapid test for qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigen (Ag) using nasopharyngeal swab as sample.

Q:How does a rapid antigen detection test for COVID-19 work?

A:One type of rapid diagnostic test detects the presence of viral proteins (antigens) expressed by the COVID-19 virus in a sample from the respiratory tract of a person. If the target antigen is present in sufficient concentration in the sample, it will bind to specific anitbodies fixed to a paper strip enclosed in a plastic casing and generate a visually detectable signal, typically within 30 minutes. The antigen(s) detected are expressed only when the virus is actively replicating: therfore, such tests are best used to identify acute or early infection.

Q:What is the sensitivity and specificity of this test?

A:Positive specimens post onset of symptoms or suspected exposure between 0-3 days has a snsitivity of 94.9% and 4-7 days has a sensitivity of 90.1%.Overall sensitivity: 91.4%; Specificity: 99.8%

Q.What is the difference between COVID-19 Antigen and COVID-19 RT-PCT test?

A.: COVID-19 Ag Rapid Test Device detects antigens produced by the virus while COVID-19 RT-PCR test detects the virus RNA.. COVID-19 Antigen RAPID test does not detect defective (non-infectious) virus during the later shedding that might be detected by RT-PCR molecular tests.

2019-nCoV IgG/IgM Antibody Detection, Corona virus disease, SARS-CoV-2, Flu desease.

• COVID-19 IgG/IgM Immunoassay
• COVID-19 IgG/IgM Antibody Detection (Qualitative)
• 2019-nCoV IgG/IgM Antibody Detection
• COVID-19 IgG and IgM

• COVID-19 IgG Antibody
• COVID-19 IgM Antibody

• Used for qualitative detection of 2019-nCoV IgG/IgM antibody
• Used as an aid in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection in conjunction with clinical presentation and other laboratory tests.

Chemiluminiscent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA)

Immunology

• Patient should wear a face mask when entering the testing facility.
• Patient should inform the number of days they are experiencing sysmptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle ache, headache, chest pain, sore throat, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, rhinorrhea)
• COVID-19 IgG/IgM Ab (CMIA) testing maybe requested from 5^th~ 21^stday of symptom onset, however, it is the doctor’s prerogative to request when he deems necessary.

• Walk in/Home Service: Gold tube
• Send in: Gold tube/Red tube

1 – 2 mL Serum

1-2mL Plasma (K2 – EDTA)

Room temperature (15-25°C): 2 days

Refrigerated temperature (2-8°C): 7 days

Freezer temperature (-20°C):  Not specified (up to 2 freeze/thaw only)

Transport specimen at 2 – 8 °C (with cold packs)

• No prescribed laboratory request form from a Medical Practitioner
• Wrong collection tube
• Specimens showing bacterial contamination
• Hemolyzed samples
• Markedly lipemic samples.
• Improperly labeled samples.
• Insufficient volume of samples.
• Exceeded sample stability requirement, repeated freezing and thawing of samples.

Daily

6:00 PM

ROUTINE:

8 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger

STAT:

2  hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger

• COVID-19 IgG Antibody
• <1.40    : NEGATIVE
• 0.49~1.39: GRAYZONE
• >/= 1.40: POSITIVE

Comment for grayzone IgG Antibody:Result obtained is in grayzone (indeterminate area). IgG levels below cut-off value & may either be rising (seroconversion) or declining (seroreversion). Please correlate with clinical condition.

• COVID-19 IgM Antibody
• <1.00    : NEGATIVE
• >/= 1.00: POSITIVE

• Results should be used in conjunction with other data (symptoms, results of other tests, and clinical impressions.
• Negative results do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in those who have been in contact with the virus.
• Non-SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus strains, such as coronavirus HKU1, NL63, OC43, or 229E, have not been evaluated with this assay.
• Not to be used to screen units of blood for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• Immunocompromised patients who have COVID-19 may have a delayed antibody which may not be detective as positive by the assay.
• Specimens from patients who have received preparations of mouse monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis or therapy may contain human anti-mouse antibodies (HAMA) specimens containing HAMA may produce anomalous values
• Heterophilic antibodies in human specimens can react with reagent immunoglobulins, interfering with in vitro immunoassays. Patients routinely exposed to animals or to animal serum products can be prone to this interference and anomalous values may be observed.
• Rheumatoid factor (RF) in human serum can react with reagent immunoglobulins, interfering with in vitro immunoassays.
• Specimens from patients who underwent hemodialysis may have autoantibodies in circulation that potentially interfere with in vitro immunoassays.

Q: Can COVID-19 antibody test be used as a stand-alone test to diagnose COVID-19?

A: No, all rapid antibody test kits cannot be used as a stand-alone test to definitively diagnose COVID-19 antibody, RT-PCR kit still remain to be the gold standard in determining if the person is infected or infectious.

Q: Can COVID-19 antibody test be used for mass testing?

A: No

Q: When is the best time to have the COVID-19 antibody testing?

A: The COVID-19 antibody test can only be used in people who had onset of symptoms for at least 5 days (i.e. for IgM) and 21 days (i.e. for IgG). Most kits include both IgM and OgG, so they can be used by day 5.

Q: Who can prescribe and interpret COVID-19 antibody test result?

A: ONLY medical doctors can prescribe and interpret the use of te antibody-based test kits. These kits will not be available over the counter.

Q: What will I do if my test result will be positive in COVID-19 IgM?

A: Anyone who tests positive for Igm should be tested with an RT-PCR to confirm the positive test.

Q: Can negative COVID-19 IgM result rule out COVID-19?

A: A negative IgM test DOES NOT rule out COVID-19 and the symptomatic patient should REMAIN ISOLATED and swabbed using RT-PCR for confirmation

Q: Who are at higher risk in having sever illness from COVID-19?

A: Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical condition may be at higher risk for more severe complications from COVID-19.

2019-nCoV IgG/IgM Antibody Detection, Corona virus disease, SARS-CoV-2, Flu disease