Laboratory Test Preparation

Test:Vitamin C (HPLC)
Other Test Request Name:
  • Ascorbic Acid
     
Test Composition:

Not applicable

Intended Use:

This test is useful in the diagnosis of deficiency which causes scurvy which is a disease involving bones, joints and mucous membranes. Scurvy is rare, usually affecting children of between 6 and 12 months nourished exclusively on formula without any vegetables or fresh fruit. It can also occur in alcoholics, the elderly and patients suffering from chronic malabsorption or on non-supplemented parenteral alimentation.

Methodology:

High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:
  • No patient preparation necessary.
  • Sample should keep away from light.
Collection/Sample Container:

Green Top (Lithium Heparin)

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

3 mL Plasma Heparin

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

Not applicable

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

28 Days

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test:

Ascorbic acid, Thrombocytopenia, Vitamin, Nutrient

 

Test:Vitamin E (HPLC)
Other Test Request Name:

Tocopherol
 

Test Composition:

Not Applicable

Intended Use:

This test is useful in the diagnosis of deficiency which reveals as hematological, neurological, muscular and opthalmological disturbances. Deficiency can be the result of inadequate intake and depleted reserves either due to increased need or reduced absorption.

Methodology:

High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:
  • No patient preparation necessary.
  • Sample should keep away from light.
Collection/Sample Container:

2 pcs of 4 mL Green Top (Sodium/Lithium Heparin)

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

4 mL Plasma Heparin

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

24 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

28 Days

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed specimen
  • Markedly lipemic specimen
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 12:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None Specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test:

Antisterility factor, Antisterility vitamin, Fertility vitamin

 

Test:Vitamin K1 (HPLC)
Other Test Request Name:
  • Phytomenadione
  • Antihaemorrhagic factor
  • Phylloquinone
  • Vitamin K1 Phylloquinone

 

Test Composition:

Not Applicable

Intended Use:

This test is useful in the diagnosis of deficiency. Deficiency-related bleeding disorders have become rare since new-borns have been systematically treated with vitamin K at birth but some level of risk remains in certain situations like chronic malabsorption, non-supplemented parenteral alimentation and children exclusively fed on breast milk.

Methodology:

High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

No patient preparation necessary.

NOTE:Sample should store away from light.

Collection/Sample Container:

Red or Gold Tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

Not Applicable

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

1 Hour (Protected from light)

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

28 Days

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed specimen
  • Markedly lipemic specimen
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

3 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test:

Phylloquinone, Phytonadione

 

Test:VitaminB8 Immunoenzymatic
Other Test Request Name:
  • Inositol
  • Vitamin H
  • Biotin
  • Vitamin B8 or H Biotin

 

Test Composition:

Not applicable

Intended Use:

This test is useful in the diagnosis of deficiency which reveals as mucocutaneous, neurological and psychiatric disturbances. Deficiency can arise in certain hereditary metabolic disorders, in malnutrition, in patients on non-supplemented parenteral alimentation and in people who consume large amounts of raw egg.

Methodology:

Immunoenzymatic

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

No patient preparation necessary.

NOTE:Sample should store away from light.

Collection/Sample Container:

Lithium Heparin(No gel separator)

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

3 mL Plasma

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

Not Applicable

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

1 Hour (Protected from light)

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

28 Days

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed specimen
  • Markedly lipemic specimen
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

3 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test:

Vitamin B complex, B1 (thiamine or thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxal phosphate), B7 (biotin)

 

Test:Voltage Gated K Channel
Other Test Request Name:

• VGKC

• Voltage Gated Potassium Channel

Test Composition:

Not applicable

Intended Use:

• Antibodies are associated with neuromuscular weakness as found in neuromyotonia (also known as Issacs syndrome) and Morvan syndrome.

• Also associated with paraneoplastic neurological syndromes and limbic encephalitis.

Methodology:

Radioimmunoassay (RIA)

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container:

Red or Gold Tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

48 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

48 Hours

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

73 Days

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:

• Hemolyzed specimen
• Markedly lipemic specimen
• Exceeded sample stability requirement
• Quantity not sufficient
• Improperly labeled specimen
• Improper collection tube used

Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Not Applicable

Limitations/Interferences:Not Applicable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

None specified.

Related Words/Test:

Encephalitis, Limbic encephalitis

 

Test:Von Willebrand Activity
Other Test Request Name:
  • von Willebrand - factor
  • VIII R (related)-Ag
  • Von Willebrand factor
  • Factor VIII-related antigen
  • VWF:Rco
  • Ristocetin cofactor
Test Composition:

Not applicable

Intended Use:

• Determine if a patient with a personal or family history of bleeding has von willebrand disease (vWD)
• Assist in determining hemophilia A carrier status in females.

Methodology:

Immunological Turbidimetric Method

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

• Provide ABO Blood Group result or Indicate at the REMARKS SECTION patient's blood type
.

Collection/Sample Container:

Citrated or Blue Top

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

4 mL Plasma

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

8 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

24 Hours

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

28 Days

Transport Temperature:

Transport specimen at 15°C ~25 °C (room temperature)

Rejection Criteria:

• Exceeded sample stability requirement
• Quantity not sufficient
• Improperly labeled specimen
• Improper collection tube used
• Clotted Sample
• Over-filled or Under-filled tube

Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test:

VWF:Ag, VWF:Rco, von Willebrand Panel, Ristocetin Cofactor, von Willebrand Factor Antigen and von Willebrand Factor Activity

 

Test:Von Willebrand Antigen
Other Test Request Name:

Not applicable

Test Composition:

Not applicable

Intended Use:

• Von Willebrand Disease is the most common hereditary bleeding disorder though it may also be acquired
• Von Willebrand Factor is necessary for platelet adhesion to injured endothelium.
• Von Willebrand Factor Antigen is useful in assessing the quantity of von Willebrand Factor. When combined with other tests, results are useful in categorizing the type of von Willebrand Disease

Methodology:

Immuno Turbidimetric Assay

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

No patient preparation necessary.
 

Collection/Sample Container:

Citrated or Blue Top

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

4 mL Plasma

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

8 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

24 Hours

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

28 Days

Transport Temperature:

Transport specimen at 15°C ~25 °C (room temperature)

Rejection Criteria:
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
  • Over-filled or Under-filled tube
  • Hemolyzed sample

 

Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Mnoday, 12:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test:

VWF:Ag, VWF:Rco, von Willebrand Panel, Ristocetin Cofactor, von Willebrand Factor Antigen and von Willebrand Factor Activity

 

Test:WBC & Diff. Count
Other Test Request Name:

•White Blood Cell Count and Differential Count                                                  •Leukocyte Differential Count                                                                                       •Peripheral Differential                                                                                                       •Diff                                                                                                                                            •Blood Differential

 
Test Composition:

1. WBC count
2. Differential Count

Intended Use:

• Part of Complete Blood Count that help assess patient's general health status
• Generally monitored when patient is with fever

Methodology:

• Fluorescence Cytometry

Laboratory Section:

Hematology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container:

• EDTA (purple top)
• Slides should be placed in slide holders or mailers before placing in a packaging container
• In cases wherein slide mailers/ holders are not available, place slides in a hard cardboard to prevent breakage

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

• 2mL EDTA whole blood
Note: 0.250- 0.500 mL EDTA whole blood if microtainer is used
• 2 Wedge-type blood smears - methanol fixed or stained with Wright-Geimsa

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

4 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

24 Hours

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

Not applicable

Transport Temperature:

• Blood: Transport at 2°C - 10°C (with ice pack)
• Slides: Transport at 15°C - 25°C (room temp)

Rejection Criteria:

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

Running Day:

Daily

Cut Off Time:

Monday to Saturday
• 6:00 PM

Sunday
• 3:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

ROUTINE
• 3 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger
STAT
• After 1½ HOURS from extraction/messenger arrival

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request.

Limitations/Interferences:

Cold agglutinins

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not applicable

Related Words/Test:

Complete Blood Count, CBC, White Blood Cell Count, Blood Smear, Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy, Immunophenotyping, Chromosome Analysis Bone Marrow Disorders, Leukemia, Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, Lymphoma, Autoimmune Diseases, Allergies.

 

Test:Wet Smear
Other Test Request Name:

Trichomonas Vaginalis Testing; Wet preparation

Test Composition:

Not applicable

Intended Use:

Used to detect the presence of Trichomonas sp. (trichomonas) in a vaginal, cervical or urethral discharge/specimen.

Methodology:

Direct Microscopic Examination

Laboratory Section:

Clinical Microscopy

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

• Patient should not use tampons or vaginal medicines for 24 hours before the test. Do not douche (douching can cause infection of the vagina or uterus).
• If patient is or might be pregnant, inform the doctor before the vaginal wet mount is done.
• A vaginal wet mount is not done during menstrual period. Menstrual blood on the slide can interfere with the results.

Collection/Sample Container:

Walk-In:
2 clean slides

Send-In:
Clean container containing Normal Saline Solution (NSS not more than 1.0 mL)

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

Walk-In:

2 Smears on clean slide with specimen types listed below:
• Vaginal discharge
•Cervical discharge
•Urethral discharge

Send-In:

Cotton swab with specimen types listed below placed in a clean container containing Normal Saline Solution (NSS not more than 1.0 mL)
• Vaginal discharge
• Cervical discharge
•Urethral discharge

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

24 Hours for swab samples

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

Not applicable

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

Not applicable

Transport Temperature:

Walk-In:
Transport wet smear immediately to laboratory to avoid drying of smear.

Send-In:
Transport swab placed in a container with Normal Saline Solution (NSS) at room temperature (15-25°C) within 24 hours.
NOTE: Label the smear/test tube with patients complete name using a masking tape.

Rejection Criteria:

• Dried smear
• Specimen placed on Amies Swab
• Sample collected with menstrual blood
• Exceeded sample storage and transport temperature requirement
• Improperly labeled containers/slides

Running Day:

Daily

Cut Off Time:

Monday to Saturday
• 6:00 PM

Sunday
• 3:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

ROUTINE
• 3 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger
STAT
• After 1½ hours from receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

No Trichomonas sp. seen.

Limitations/Interferences:

Menstrual blood on the slide can alter the results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Not applicable

Related Words/Test:

T. vaginalis, Wet Prep, Trichomonas vaginalis, Trichomonas vaginalis RNA, Trichomonas vaginalis Culture, Trichomonas vaginalis DNA Probe, Trichomonas vaginalis by Amplified Detection, Trichomonas vaginalis by Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA)

 

Test:Yellow Fever (Arbovirus)
Other Test Request Name:
  • Yellow Fever - immunity test
  • Arthropod-borne Virus Testing
Test Composition:

Not applicable

Intended Use:

Yellow Fever is a serious infection causing jaundice, hemorrhage and renal damage which is due to a flavivirus and is transmitted by mosquitoes (Aedes spp.). This antibody test is for assessing immune status following immunization.

This test is designed to measure anti viral immunity

Arboviruses (arthropod-bornevirus) cause viral infections that are transmitted between humans by mosquitoes and other blood-sucking insects, such as ticks. Arbovirus testing detects either antiboduies produced by the body's immune system in response to a specific arbovirus infection or it detects the virus's genetic material in blood or cerebrospinal fluid.

Found throughout the world, arboviruses are an important cause of viral meningitis and encephalitis. In temperate climates, they tend to cause occasional seasonal epidemics. In tropical climates, they may be found year-round, whenever mosquitoes are active.

These viruses are spread when a mosquito, or sometimes another insect carrier (vector) such as a tick or sandfly, bites an infected bird or other small animal and becomes infected, then bites a human and passes it on. Arbovirus infections are usually not directly passed from person-to-person. Sometimes, an infection may be transmitted through a blood transfusion, organ transplant, sexual contact, from a pregnant woman to her baby, or from a mother to child through breast milk.

Arbovirus testing is used along with a person'ssigns,symptoms, and history of exposure and travel to detect and confirm anacutearbovirus infection and to distinguish between an infection and other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

Depending on the virus causing the infection, people infected by an arbovirus may have only mild to moderate flu-like symptoms that resolve within a few days to a few weeks. In some cases, a sudden onset of high fever may be accompanied by a rash (dengue fever),jaundice(yellow fever), or severejoint pain and debilitating symptoms. Depending on the virus, a person may develop severe symptoms that may be life-threatening and require hospitalization.

Methodology:

Neutralisation Test

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container:

Red or Gold Tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

24 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

Not Applicable

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed specimen
  • Markedly lipemic specimen
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

3 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: When is it ordered?

A:Testing is primarily ordered when a person has signs and symptoms suggesting a current arbovirus infection, especially if the person lives in or has recently traveled to an area where a specific arbovirus is endemic.

In the U.S., an arbovirus infection may be suspected when symptoms arise during mid to late summer. In warmer areas, infections may occur year-round.

Some signs and symptoms may include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle weakness and pain
  • Joint pain
  • Nausea
  • Skin rash

A small percentage of people, especially the young, elderly, and immunocompromised.may have more serious symptoms associated with meningitis and encephalitis.These symptoms may include:

  • High fever
  • Severe headaches
  • Convulsions
  • Confusion
  • Stiff neck
  • Muscular paralysis

Antibody tests may be ordered within the first week or two of the onset of symptoms to detect an acute infection. An additional blood sample may be collected 2 to 4 weeks later to determine if the antibody level is rising. When an infection of the central nervous system is suspected, antibody testing may be performed on cerebrospinal fluid as well as blood.

Related Words/Test:
Dengue Fever Testing, West Nile Virus Testing, Zika Virus Testing, Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Testing

 

Test:Zika Virus (Serum) by PCR
Other Test Request Name:

Zika - direct diagnosis PCR

Test Composition:

Not Applicable

Intended Use:
  • It is important to get the complete Clinical Information of the patient.  
  • Ask for Zika Virus Specific Clinical Information Form at Special Test Section.
  • Patient to fill-out the Interview Guide for Zika Virus Test (Specific clinical information form (R28-INTGB) and attach it to the POS receipt (Please see attached form).

NOTE:

  • Timing of Urine Collection : 5th to 15th day after onset of fever
  • Timing of Blood collection : 3rd to 7th day after onset of fever
Methodology:

RealTime - Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

• It is important to get the complete Clinical Information of the patient.  

• Patient to fill-out the Interview Guide for Zika Virus Test (HPD_F_645) and attach it to the POS receipt (Please see attached form).

• Timing of Blood collection : 3rdto 7thday after onset of fever

• Timing of Urine Collection : 5thto 15thday after onset of fever

Collection/Sample Container:

Red or Gold Tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

 

24 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

Not Applicable

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed specimen
  • Markedly lipemic specimen
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None Specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: When to get tested?

A:When you developed the following signs and symptoms below after travelling to an area where Zika virus is endemic or had symptoms and had sexual contact with someone who recently travelled from an area where Zika is present.

  • Fever 
  • Rash
  • Joint pain
  • Conjuctivitis (pink eye)

If your are pregnant and have travelled to an area where Zika is active, regardless of symptoms.

When a baby is born with small microcephaly (small head)

Related Words/Test:

Zika RT-PCR Test, Zika Antibody Test, Zika PRNT, Zika IgM ELISA, Real Time RT-PCR, Zika Virus RNA Qualitative Real-Time RT-PCR, Zika Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test

 

Test:Zika Virus (Urine) by PCR
Other Test Request Name:

Zika - direct diagnosis PCR

Test Composition:

Not Applicable

Intended Use:

To detect or diagnose the presence of Zika Virus infection.

Zika Virus disease is an Arbovirosis transmitted by the Aedes mosquito bite.

After the incubation period, this infection may be asymptomatic in a large number of cases or it can be seen as a flu-like syndrome with generally moderate fever, a skin rash and sometimes Arthralgia or myalgia as well as conjunctival hyperemia.

 

Methodology:

RealTime - Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:
  • It is important to get the complete Clinical Information of the patient.  
  • Ask for Zika Virus Specific Clinical Information Form at Special Test Section.
  • Patient to fill-out the Interview Guide for Zika Virus Test (Specific clinical information form (R28-INTGB) and attach it to the POS receipt (Please see attached form).

NOTE:

  • Timing of Urine Collection : 5th to 15th day after onset of fever
  • Timing of Blood collection : 3rd to 7th day after onset of fever
Collection/Sample Container:

Plastic leak proof sterile container

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

100 mL Random Urine

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

24 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

Not Applicable

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Received room temperature
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper urine collection
Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None Specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: When to get tested?

A:When you developed the following signs and symptoms below after travelling to an area where Zika virus is endemic or had symptoms and had sexual contact with someone who recently travelled from an area where Zika is present.

  • Fever 
  • Rash
  • Joint pain
  • Conjuctivitis (pink eye)

If your are pregnant and have travelled to an area where Zika is active, regardless of symptoms.

When a baby is born with small microcephaly (small head)

 

Related Words/Test:

Zika RT-PCR Test, Zika Antibody Test, Zika PRNT, Zika IgM ELISA, Real Time RT-PCR, Zika Virus RNA Qualitative Real-Time RT-PCR, Zika Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test

 

Test:Zinc Protoporphyrins(PPZ)
Other Test Request Name:
  • ZPP
  • Free Erythrocyte Protoporphyrin
  • Protoporphyrin
  • Zinc
  • ZP
  • FEP
  • ZPP/Heme Ratio
Test Composition:

Not Applicable

Intended Use:

Erythrocytic zinc protoporphyrine elevation is detectable when the blood lead reaches 150 to 250 ug/L. The time of onset in the blood is 2 to 10 weeks and is well correlated with the lead level for values between 400 and 800 ug/L. It is good reflection of long-term impregnation, with stable exposure conditions. Since its sensitivity is low, it is not a good marker. It may also be elevated in cases of hypoferric anaemia.

Zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) is normally present in red blood cells in small amounts, but the level may increase in people with lead poisoning and iron deficiency. This test measures the level of ZPP in the blood.

To understand how lead poisoning and iron deficiency affect the ZPP level, it is necessary to know about heme. Heme is an essential component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and cells.

Heme formation occurs in a series of steps that concludes with the insertion of an iron atom into the center of a molecule called protoporphyrin. When there is not enough iron available, as in iron deficiency, or when the insertion of iron is inhibited, as in lead poisoning, then protoporphyrin combines with zinc instead of iron to form zinc protoporphyrin. ZPP serves no useful purpose in red blood cells since it cannot bind to oxygen.

Erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EP) accumulates in red blood cells when there is insufficient iron present for proper heme synthesis. A small percentage of EP may be unbound and can be measured as free erythrocyte protoporphyrin (FEP), with the remainder EP (about 90%) measured as zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP).

Methodology:

Hematoflourometry

Laboratory Section:

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:
  • No patient preparation necessary.
  • Protect tube form light.
Collection/Sample Container:

4 mL Edta Tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:

3 pcs of 4 mL Edta whole blood

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):

3 Days

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):

5 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):

Not applicable

Transport Temperature:

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

Rejection Criteria:
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Improper collection tube used
  • Clotted specimen
  • Over-filled or Under-filled tube
  • Hemolyzed specimen

 

 

Running Day:

Batch Running

Cut Off Time:

Monday, 12:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results:

2 weeks after cut-off (excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays)

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences:

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Why get tested?

A:To screen for and monitor chronic exposure to lead in adults; to detect iron deficiency in children

Q: Why get tested?

A:When you have been chronically exposed to lead, as part of a program to monitor industrial lead exposure, and/or when your healthcare provider suspects lead poisoning; as part of screening and diagnosing iron deficiency in children and adolescents

Q: When is it ordered?

A:ZPP may be ordered along with a lead test when chronic exposure to lead is known or suspected in adults. Signs and symptoms of lead poisoning include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Numbness and/or tingling in the hands and feet
  • Memory loss, mood disorders
  • Weakness
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache


The test may be ordered when an employee is a participant in an occupational lead monitoring program or when someone has a hobby, such as working with stained glass, that brings the person into frequent contact with lead.

The ZPP/heme ratio may be ordered as a screening test for iron deficiency in children and adolescents or when iron deficiency is suspected. Some symptoms of iron deficiency include:

  • Chronic fatigue, tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Headaches


If the iron-deficiency anemia is severe, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, headaches, and leg pains may occur. Children may develop learning (cognitive) disabilities. Besides the general symptoms of anemia, there are certain symptoms that are characteristic of iron deficiency. These include pica (cravings for specific substances, such as licorice, chalk, dirt, or clay), a burning sensation in the tongue or a smooth tongue, sores at the corners of the mouth, and spoon-shaped fingernails and toenails.

Q: Besides ZPP and lead levels, what other tests might my doctor order to monitor exposure to lead?

A:If you are in an occupational setting where you are frequently exposed to lead, your healthcare practitioner may order the following tests to evaluate your kidneys and red blood cell production:

  • BUN
  • Creatinine
  • Urinalysis
  • CBC or hemoglobin and hematocrit
  • Peripheral blood smear
Related Words/Test:
Iron, Iron Tests, Lead, Complete Blood Count (CBC), Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Porphyrin Tests

 

Test:12 Lead ECG
Other Test Request Name:

ECG or EKG

Electrocardiography or Electrocardiogram

Test Composition:Not Applicable
Intended Use:

is used to detect heart disease, heart attack, an enlarged heart, or abnormal heart rhythms that may cause heart failure of a adult patient.

Methodology:Not Applicable
Laboratory Section:Not Applicable
Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

• Patient is requested to remove any item that may interfere with the ECG results. Items may include but not limited to mobile phone, jewelries, accessories, belt, and coins.
•  A female patient is requested to unhook the brassier and given an option whether she wants to wear patient’s gown or to cover her chest area with clean linen.
• Patients with hairy chest are advised if it is necessary to shave the chest area where electrodes are to be placed.
• There may be some slight discomfort when the electrodes are removed from your skin – similar to removing a sticking plaster – and some people may develop a ventosa effect where the electrodes were attached.

Collection/Sample Container:Not Applicable
Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:Not Applicable
Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:Not Applicable
Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):Not Applicable
•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):Not Applicable
•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):Not Applicable
Transport Temperature:Not Applicable
Rejection Criteria:Not Applicable
Running Day:Not Applicable
Cut Off Time:Not Applicable
TAT/Releasing of Results:

• Next day at 2:00 pm

• Only the ECG reading can be viewed in the Health Online.
The ECG tracing is to be picked-up by the patient in the branch, sent to doctor (with delivery charge), or sent to house (via Courier).

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/ecg-test

Limitations/Interferences:Not Applicable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q.Why ECG is requested?
A.A doctor may recommend an ECG for people who may be at risk of heart disease because there is a family history of heart disease, or because they smoke, are overweight, or have diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
They may also recommend an ECG if a person is experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting and fast or irregular heartbeats (palpitations).
ECGs are often performed to monitor the health of people who have been diagnosed with heart problems, to help assess artificial cardiac pacemakers or to monitor the effects of certain medications on the heart.
Q. Is EKG Different From An Echocardiogram?
A.The Echocardiogram (Echo) and Electrocardiogram (ECG) are both diagnostic tests used to assess the health of your heart muscles, arteries, and valves. The difference between the two tests is the instrument and methodology used. We know now that an ECG uses electrical impulses to read the heart’s rhythm and activity, while the Echocardiogram, on the other hand, uses ultrasounds technology to produce an image of the heart. The ECG is the more commonly ordered test, while the Echo is ordered once signs of heart disease have been observed.
Q.How Long Does It Take?
A.On average, the ECG takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete.
Q. What are the possible complication or risk of an ECG?
A.The ECG is a safe procedure with no known risks. It does not send electric current to the body. Some people may be allergic or sensitive to the electrodes, which can cause local skin reddening. There may be some slight discomfort when the electrodes are removed from your skin – similar to removing a sticking plaster – and some people may develop a ventosa effect where the electrodes were attached.

Related Words/Test:Not Applicable

 

Test:15 Lead ECG
Other Test Request Name:Not Applicable
Test Composition:Not Applicable
Intended Use:

is used to detect heart disease, heart attack, an enlarged heart, or abnormal heart rhythms that may cause heart failure of a pediatric patient.

Methodology:Not Applicable
Laboratory Section:Not Applicable
Special Instructions/Patient Preparations:

• Patient is requested to remove any item that may interfere with the ECG results. Items may include but not limited to mobile phone, jewelries, accessories, belt, and coins.
•  A female patient is requested to unhook the brassier and given an option whether she wants to wear patient’s gown or to cover her chest area with clean linen.
• There may be some slight discomfort when the electrodes are removed from your skin – similar to removing a sticking plaster – and some people may develop a ventosa effect where the electrodes were attached.

Collection/Sample Container:Not Applicable
Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.		:Not Applicable
Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement:Not Applicable
Specimen Stability  
•   Room Temperature (15-25°C):Not Applicable
•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C):Not Applicable
•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C):Not Applicable
Transport Temperature:Not Applicable
Rejection Criteria:Not Applicable
Running Day:Not Applicable
Cut Off Time:Not Applicable
TAT/Releasing of Results:

• Depends on the availability of a Pediatric Cardiologist to interpret the result (usually 1 to 2 working days).

• Only the ECG reading can be viewed in the Health Online.
The ECG tracing is to be picked-up by the patient in the branch, sent to doctor (with delivery charge), or sent to house (via Courier).

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation:

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/ecg-test

Limitations/Interferences:Not Applicable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q.Why ECG is requested?
A.A doctor may recommend an ECG for people who may be at risk of heart disease because there is a family history of heart disease, or because they smoke, are overweight, or have diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
They may also recommend an ECG if a person is experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting and fast or irregular heartbeats (palpitations).
ECGs are often performed to monitor the health of people who have been diagnosed with heart problems, to help assess artificial cardiac pacemakers or to monitor the effects of certain medications on the heart.
Q. Is EKG Different From An Echocardiogram?
A.The Echocardiogram (Echo) and Electrocardiogram (ECG) are both diagnostic tests used to assess the health of your heart muscles, arteries, and valves. The difference between the two tests is the instrument and methodology used. We know now that an ECG uses electrical impulses to read the heart’s rhythm and activity, while the Echocardiogram, on the other hand, uses ultrasounds technology to produce an image of the heart. The ECG is the more commonly ordered test, while the Echo is ordered once signs of heart disease have been observed.
Q.How Long Does It Take?
A.On average, the ECG takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete.
Q. What are the possible complication or risk of an ECG?
A.The ECG is a safe procedure with no known risks. It does not send electric current to the body. Some people may be allergic or sensitive to the electrodes, which can cause local skin reddening. There may be some slight discomfort when the electrodes are removed from your skin – similar to removing a sticking plaster – and some people may develop a ventosa effect where the electrodes were attached.

Related Words/Test:Not Applicable