Instructions for using this laboratory test list
Please note that use of this manual is intended for local users only
Specimen preparation may be different when sent from a remote location
Tests are arranged alphabetically
Please follow the sample collection, container and volume instructionsFor a more detailed explanation on how to obtain the specimen refer to "Instructions for Sample
Collection" document
If you are unsure which specimen should be collected, phone the relevant laboratory section for
instructions
Unless otherwise stated the specimen requirement is blood, taken into the indicated tube
Unless otherwise stated the volume of specimen required is 4 - 5ml
Some more specialised tests may not published in this document. Please utilise the phone list and
consult a pathologist directly if any test is required that is not available routinely
Electronic version of the Laboratory Test list, contact details and "Instructions for sample collection"
available on:www.health.uct.ac.za/fhs/departments/cls/about/
Please note that this list was last updated in December 2014. Some instructions may have changed
Please contact the laboratory with any specific queries
GPL2952 v5
NHLS GSH & RXH LABORATORY TEST LIST
GSH Speed dial RXH
General results centre 021 404 4129 N/A
Anatomic pathology General: 021 404 3000 General 021 658 5209
Consultants: Consultant:
On call (Histology) 072 620 6916 Dr Pillay 021 658 5236
On call (Cytology) 072 620 6682
Prof Wainwright 021 404 5258 76862
Dr Duffield 021 404 3381 76893
Dr Locketz 021 404 3559 76923
Dr Wu 021 404 4252
Dr Sookhayi 021 404 5346
Dr Learmonth 021 404 3047
Dr Malaka 021 404 3463
Registrars: Registrar:
On call (Histology) 072 620 6537 76937 Room 021 658 5237
On call (Cytology) 072 620 8356 76944
Room 021 404 4234/2387
Chemical Pathology General 021 404 4129 General: 021 658 5224/6
Consultants: Consultant:
Dr Vreede 021 404 5429 76197 Dr van der Watt 021 658 5220
Dr Omar 021 404 4118 76350
Dr Fortgens (021) 404 6330 77199
Registrars:
On call 021 404 4135 77198
IMD lab:
Chem IMD Molecular 021 404 4449/406 6219
Non-NHLS Laboratories
Blood Bank 021 404 4091
Lipid Lab 021 406 6208/6125
Pharmacology 021 404 5383
Porphyria Lab 021 406 6521
Haematology General: 021 404 4129 General: 021 658 5204
Consultants: Consultant:
GPL2952 v5
Dr Opie 021 404 3082 Dr Phillips 021 658 5228
Dr Ntobongwana 021 404 4244
Scientist / Molecular
tests
Dr Shires 021 406 6673
Registrars Registrar:
Room/Main Bench 021 404 3364/3092 76193 Room 021 658 5248
Microbiology General: 021 404 4129
Consultants:
Dr Bamford 021 404 5295
Dr Beylis 021 404 6415
Drs Wojno/Naicker 021 404 5282
Registrars
Room 021 404 5302/3 76652
Virology General: 021 404 4129
Consultants:
Dr Korsman 021 4046414 76865
Dr Hardie 021 404 5201 76866
Dr Hsiao 021 404 5200 76867
Registrars:
Room 021 404 5302/3
Tissue Immunology General: 021 404 4129
Lab Manager:
Ms Maart 021 404 4420
HLA Serology Lab. 021 404 4502
HLA Molecular Lab. 021 404 4447
Genetics General: 021 404 4129
Cytogenetics 021 4044 509
Molecular 021 404 4550
Immunology General: 021 404 4129
Dr Watkins 021 404 4537
GPL2952 v5
Preferred test name Other information
GSH
Specimen
container
RXH
Specimen
container
Precautions, comments &
volumes
Send-aways from
peripheral laboratoriesLab
11- deoxycortisol 11DOC yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
17- hydroxyprogesterone 17OHP yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
5-alpha reductase whole gene
screenSRD5A2 purple
Only after confirmation of
positive biochemical test. Must
be arranged with laboratory.
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
5-hydroxy-indole acetic acid,
urine5HIAA 24 hour urine 24 hour urine
Collect urine in acid (urine pH <
3)Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
7- dehydrocholesterolSmith-Lemli-Opitz
Syndromepurple
All tests performed on
research budget. Please
arrange by discussion
with Prof Marais for lipid
chemistry including fatty
acids, sterols and
lipoprotein
characterisation
Lipid (Non NHLS)
ABL kinase mutations
Gleevec Resistance
testing,CASEQ; mutation
studies
purple purpleAt least 3X 5ml. Immediately on
ice/ to lab within 24 hrsSend on ice C21Molecular haem
ABO blood grouping/phenotyping purple purple
Send to blood bank at RXH. 2 to
8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least
5ml blood needed
Room temperature -
should reach the lab in
less than 3 days
Haem
Acetylcholine Receptor Ab ACERA yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Acid base studies, urinecontact
laboratory
contact
laboratory
Test must be arranged with chem
path registrar. Deliver to lab
immediately on ice.
Chem
Acid phosphatase (total or
prostatic)yellow gel yellow gel
Arrange with lab. Separate
promptly. Add 30ul stabiliser
(0.8M acetic acid) to 1ml serum
within 1hr of collection. Stable at
4°C for 8 days. TAT of 1 month.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
GPL2952 v5
ACLA (IgG)
Anti-cardiolipin antibody
IgG; anti-phopspholipid
antibody; CLP; APLA;
ACLA
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
ACLA (IgM)
Anti-cardiolipin antibody
IgM; anti-phopspholipid
antibody; CLP; APLA;
ACLA
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Actinomyces culture Culture for ActinomycesPus from
infected siteMicro
Activated protein C resistance APCR blue
To reach lab within 4hrs or
contact lab if greater delay.
Clinical haematologist
authorisation required
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Acute flaccid paralysis2x stool 48
hours apart
Requires EPID form. Results
available from NICD when
processed, but this is meant for
surveillance and not diagnostics.
Send on ice. Peripheral
labs to send directly to
NICD if possible
Viro
Adenosine deaminase, CSF ADA CSF CSF Chem
Adenosine deaminase, fluid fluid fluid Chem
Adenovirus 40/41 Rapid test,
stoolstool Done with rotavirus
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Adrenocorticotrophic hormone ACTH purple purple Deliver to lab immediately on ice. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Alanine transaminase ALT yellow gel green Chem
Albumin yellow gel green Chem
Albumin, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem
Albumin, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Albumin, urine (Microalbumin)random or
timed urine
random or
timed urineChem
Aldosterone yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Alkaline phosphatase ALP yellow gel green Chem
Alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes ALISO yellow gel greenSeparate immediately and send
on dry ice.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Allergy Food Screening test - FX5
If positive, individual
allergens will be tested -
Egg white, cows milk, fish,
peanut, soybean,and wheat
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
GPL2952 v5
Allergy Inhalant Screening test -
Phadiatop
If positive, individual
allergens will be tested -
Cat and dog dander, house
dust mite, grass pollen mix
and mould mix.
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Alpha feto protein AFP yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Alpha-1 antitrypsin A1AT yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum
at RTChem
Alpha-1 antitrypsin clearance
timed stool
collection into
preweighed
container
timed stool
collection into
preweighed
container
Minimum 5ml stool. Record
weight of stool collection and
empty container on form. Yellow
gel top blood sample
simultaneously required.
Minimum 5ml stool.
Record weight of stool
collection and empty
container on form.
Yellow gel top blood
sample simultaneously
required.
Chem
Alpha-1 antitrypsin point mutation
analysisSERPINA 1 purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Aluminium
trace metal
(royal blue)
tube
trace metal
(royal blue)
tube
Discuss with chemical pathology
registrar prior to collectionNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Aluminium, urine random urine random urineDiscuss with chemical pathology
registrar prior to collectionNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Amikacin yellow gel greenGSH specimens to be sent
directly to Pharmacology
For GSH or UCTPAH
patients only. Not offered
here for any other
patients.
Chem
Amino Acids, serum or plasma
(quantitative)
yellow gel or
greengreen
Minimum 1ml. Deliver to lab
immediately. If delayed, separate
and send frozen on dry ice.
Minimum 1ml. Separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice.
Chem
Amino Acids, urine random urine random urine
Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab
immediately. If delayed, send on
ice or frozen on dry ice.
Minimum 5ml. Send
frozen on dry ice.Chem
Ammonia, serum NH3 purple green
Extremely unstable. Deliver to lab
immediately (within 15 min) on
ice.
Chem
GPL2952 v5
Amoebic IFAT (Entamoeba
histolytica)Amoebic serology yellow gel
Usually batched. Run weekly.
(Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
AMP Deaminase point mutation
analysisAMPD1 purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Amylase, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Amylase, serum Please request lipase Chem
Amylase, urine Please request lipase Chem
ANA (EliA CTD Screen)
Anti-nuclear antibodies;
Anti-nuclear factor. NB-
screen does include anti-
dsDNA.
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
ANCAAnti-neutrophil cytoplasmic
antibody, MPOs & PR3syellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Androstenedione yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Anti - dsDNAAnti-double stranded DNA
antibodyyellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Anti-CCP Ab
Anti- cyclic citrullinated
peptide antibody. Part of
2010 ACR/EULAR
rheumatoid arthritis
classification criteria.
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
AntiDNAse BStreptococcal serology
(AntiDNAse B)yellow gel
Daily batches during the day-Mon-
Friday. Sat-Sun one batch in the
morning. (Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
Anti-Factor Xa Enoxaparin monitoring blue blue
Must reach lab within 30 mins of
sampling. Performed daily on
weekdays only (unless arranged
with laboratory in advance). At
least 5ml
Spin sample and freeze
plasma within 60 minutes
of sampling. Transport to
reference laboratory on
dry ice.
Haem - RXH
GPL2952 v5
Anti-Gliadin IgA antibodiesAnti-Gliadin (deamidated)
IgA antibodiesyellow gel
N.B. Patient must include gluten
in diet to avoid false negative
results. Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
Anti-Gliadin IgG antibodiesAnti-Gliadin (deamidated)
IgG antibodiesyellow gel
N.B. Patient must include gluten
in diet to avoid false negative
results. Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
Anti-IgE receptor Ab yellow gel
Samples batched and sent
overseas for testing
approximately every 3 months.
Immuno
Anti-parietal cell antibody Parietal cell antibody yellow gel Immuno
Anti-phopspholipid antibody
Test for the following: Anti-
cardiolipin antibody IgG and
IgM. Anti-B2-Glycoprotein
IgG and IgM.
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Anti-thrombin III AT3 blue blue
To reach lab within 4hrs or
contact lab if delay. Clinical
haematologist authorisation
required
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Apolipoprotein B gene Apo B binding defective purple
2 x 5mL EDTA; arrange with lipid
lab beforehand. Informed
consent required
All tests performed on
research budget. Please
arrange by discussion
with Prof Marais for lipid
chemistry including fatty
acids, sterols and
lipoprotein
characterisation
Lipid (Non NHLS)
GPL2952 v5
Apolipoprotein E gene Apo E purple 2 X 5mL EDTA; do NOT freeze.
Must reach lab within 5 days.
All tests performed on
research budget. Please
arrange by discussion
with Prof Marais for lipid
chemistry including fatty
acids, sterols and
lipoprotein
characterisation
Lipid (Non NHLS)
Apoprotein A Apo A yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Apoprotein B Apo B yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Aristaless-related homeobox
gene (X-linked mental retardation)ARXdup24
purple or
amniotic fluid
For all tests
please use the
NHLS Genetic
and Metabolic
request form,
and provide
information
regarding the
relevant family
history and
any previous
genetic testing
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Arsenic yellow gel yellow gel
No seafood 72 hours before
blood test. Keep at room
temperature. Arrange with lab
beforehand.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Arsenic, hair hair plus roots hair plus roots
No seafood 72 hours before
blood test. At least 100mg hair
plus roots - mark root end with a
piece of cotton. Arrange with lab
beforehand.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Arsenic, nails nails nails
No seafood 72 hours before test.
At least 100mg nails. Arrange
with lab beforehand.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
GPL2952 v5
Arsenic, urine random urine random urine
No seafood 72 hours before test.
Requires 25ml urine. Keep at
room temperature. Arrange with
lab beforehand.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Aryl sulphatase A, leukocyte green green
Requires control sample. Arrange
with lab beforehand. NB!! Do
NOT centrifuge.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Aryl sulphatase A, plasma green greenRequires control sample. Arrange
beforehand. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
ASOTStreptococcal serology
(ASOT)yellow gel
Daily batches during the day-Mon-
Friday. Sat-Sun one batch in the
morning. (Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
Aspartate transaminae AST yellow gel green Chem
Aspergillus precipitins Aspergillus serology yellow gel
Usually batched, but urgent tests
can be performed by special
arrangement. (Test performed at
GSH Allergology)
Micro
Aspirate culture
Fluid culture; Sterile fluid
culture; Joint, pleural,
ascitic, pericardial or
peritoneal fluid culture
Sterile screw-
top tube or
sealed syringe.
Purple (if cell
count required)
Fluid/aspirate can be submitted
on a sterile swab but this is not
ideal. Specimens from existing
drain sites will not be accepted
for culture. Specimens must be
collected by direct aspiration or at
the time of insertion of the drain.
If cell count required please
submit a purple-top tube with this
requested (will be performed by
Haematology).
Micro
GPL2952 v5
Aspirate microscopy
Fluid microscopy;
Microscopy (fluid); Joint,
pleural, ascitic, pericardial
or peritoneal fluid
microscopy
Sterile screw-
top tube or
sealed syringe.
Purple (if cell
count required)
Fluid/aspirate can be submitted
on a sterile swab but this is not
ideal. Specimens from existing
drain sites will not be accepted
for culture. Specimens must be
collected by direct aspiration or at
the time of insertion of the drain.
If cell count required please
submit a purple-top tube with this
requested (will be performed by
Haematology).
Micro
B2-Glycoprotein IgGAnti-B2-Glycoprotein IgG.
Anti-phopspholipid antibodyyellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
B2-Glycoprotein IgMAnti-B2-Glycoprotein IgM.
Anti-phopspholipid antibodyyellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Bardet-Biedl syndrome
(BBS1and 10)
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
BARTH syndrome whole gene
screenTAZ1 gene purple
Only after confirmation of
positive biochemical test. Must
be arranged with laboratory.
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Bartonella antibodies Bartonella serology
Test not recommended by NICD
as results are not interpretable in
SA context
Micro
Bartonella culture and PCRinvestigation for culture-
negative endocarditis
purple EDTA
tubes x 2
Research test performed at
NICD. Clinician must complete
special request form, available at
reception
Micro
BCR/ABL p190Qualitative PCR for BCR-
ABL - ALLpurple purple
At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on
ice/ to lab within 24 hrsSend on ice C21Molecular haem
BCR/ABL p210Qualitative PCR for BCR-
ABL - CMLpurple purple
At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on
ice/ to lab within 24 hrs on iceSend on ice C21Molecular haem
GPL2952 v5
BCR/ABL quantificationQuantitative PCR for BCR-
ABL (p210); QRPCRpurple purple
At least 2x 5ml. Immediately on
ice/ to lab within 24 hrsSend on ice C21Molecular haem
Bence Jones Protein, urinetimed urine
collection
Collect urine in Bence Jones
Protein preservative
Collect urine in Bence
Jones Protein
preservative
Chem
Beta-2 microglobulin Microglobulin, beta-2 yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Beta-2 transferrinCSF electrophoresis; CSF
rule out test plain tube plain tube Plain tube Chem
Beta-D-glucan Fungitell yellow gelSent to NHLS Johannesburg -
batched three times a week
Store and transport at 2-
8° C Micro
Beta-ENaC point mutation
analysis or exon 13 sequencing
SCNN1B/ENAC / Liddles
mutation / R563Q mutationpurple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Beta-human chorionic
gonadotrophinyellow gel yellow gel
For transport <72hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >72hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
Bilharzia Urine screw-top tube Request for bilharzia specifically
as this test is not routinely done.
Bilharzia IFATBilharzia serology;
Schistosomal serologyyellow gel
Usually batched. Performed
weekly.(Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
Bilirubin, conjugated yellow gel green Chem
Bilirubin, total yellow gel green Chem
Bilirubin, total, fluid plain tube plain tubeSample should be protected from
lightChem
Bilirubin, urine (qualitative dipstix) random urine random urine
Protect from light: sample must
be wrapped in tin foil or black
paper. Deliver to lab within 4
hours.
Chem
Biotinidase enzyme activity yellow gelArrange with lab in advance.
Deliver to lab immediately.Chem IMD
Biotinidase whole gene screen purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
BK virus PCR, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
BK virus PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
GPL2952 v5
Bleeding time
performed
directly on
patient
performed
directly on
patient.
Please book this procedure by
contacting laboratory.N/A Haem
Blood culture Culture (blood)Blood culture
bottle
Ideally two sets of of blood
cultures should be taken from
separate venipuncture sites,
using aseptic technique. Volume
of blood should be the maximum
amount indicated on the bottle-
10ml for adult bottle, 4ml for
paediatric bottles. DO NOT
STICK LABEL UNDERNEATH
BOTTOM of BOTTLE OR OVER
BOTTLE BAR CODES.
Micro
Blood Group/Red cell Antibody
identificationRed cell antibodies purple purple
Send to blood bank at RXH. 2 to
8 °C (Do not Freeze). At least
5ml blood needed
Room temperature -
should reach the lab in
less than 3 days
Haem
Blood Grouping (ABO & Rh) for
transplantation casesgold - ACD
2ml purple /
0.5ml pink
microtainer/
yellow gel
Blood grouping is only done for
transplantation cases.Tissue Immuno
Bone marrow biopsy Aspirate and trephine Test must be booked in advance
Separate aspirate slides
from trephine biopsy
when transporting
Haem
Bordetella pertussis PCR Whooping cough PCRSterile screw-
top tube
Sputum, tracheal aspirate,
nasopharyngeal aspiratesMicro
Brucella ELISA Brucella serology yellow gel
Usually batched. Done weekly.
(Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
C1-esterase inhibitor
concentrationyellow gel
Sample sent to Tshwane
Immunology LaboratoryImmuno
C3 Complement yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
C4 Complement yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
CA 125 yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
CA 15-3 yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
GPL2952 v5
CA 19-9 yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Caeruloplasmin yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Calcitonin yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Calcium, ionised
capped
heparinised
syringe, no air
bubble
capped
heparinised
syringe, no air
bubble
Deliver on ice within 30 minutes.
RXH: arrange with lab
beforehand.
Chem
Calcium, total yellow gel green Chem
Calcium, urinerandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urineCollect urine in acid (urine pH <3) Chem
Calculus analysis Stone analysisclinical
specimen
clinical
specimenChem
Carboxyhaemoglobin green green
NB!! Completely filled tube (5ml).
No air. Arrange with chemical
pathology registrar. Deliver to lab
immediately on ice
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Carcinoembryonic antigen CEA yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Carnitine profilegreen or yellow
gel
green or
yellow gel
Arrange with chemical pathology
registrar. Deliver to lab
immediately
Arrange with chem path
registrar (RxH). Deliver to
lab immediately
Chem
CD34 CD34 collection; CD34
stem cells
purple /
apheresis bag
collection
Room temperature -
should reach the lab in
less than 1 day
Haem
CD4 PLG CD4; CD4 for ARV purple Reach lab in <48 hours Haem
CD64 CD64 PMN; marker for
sepsispurple
Room temperature -
should reach the lab in
less than 1 day
Haem
Cell count, ascitic purple purple <24 hours old Haem
Cell count, CSFSterile screw-
top tube
Submit in sterile screw-topped
tube. DO NOT SUBMIT IN CLOT-
ACTIVATING TUBES OR TUBES
WITH ANY OTHER ADDITIVES.
Micro
Cell count, CSF sterile tube sterile tube <1 hour old (optimal) Haem
Cell count, pleural purple purple <24 hours old Haem
GPL2952 v5
Centromere Ab yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis
genetic analysisCTX; CYP27A1 purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
CF (Cystic fibrosis) genetic
analysis
Delta F508; 3120+1 G-A;
CF 30 gene screen purple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
CFTR whole gene screen CF purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Chimerism analysisgenotyping, Bone marrow
engraftment, STRpurple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood. To
reach lab within 3 daysSend whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem
Chlamydia antibody testingChlamydia pneumoniae, C.
psittaci and C. trachomatisYellow gel
Not available (testing at STIRC,
NICD is for surveillance or
research purposes only)
Micro
Chlamydia PCR
Pus swab or
tissue from
genital site,
urine
Not routinely required if
syndromic management utilised.
Test performed at STIRC, NICD,
Jhb by special arrangement
Micro
Chloride yellow gel green Chem
Chloride, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem
Chloride, stool watery stool watery stool Chem
Chloride, urine random urine random urine Chem
Cholera Culture for Vibrio choleraestool or rectal
swab
Please indicate this request on
the form as this is NOT part of
the routine culture for stool.
Must be transported in
Cary-Blair media and
specimens must be
refrigerated for transport
Micro
Cholesterol, total yellow gel green Chem
Cholinesterase Pseudocholinesterase yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Chromogranin A CGA yellow gel yellow gelRest for 30min pre-test. Deliver
to lab on ice. Arrange with lab.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
GPL2952 v5
Chromosome analysis
(constitutional disorders)
Karyotype (constitutional
disorders)
green tube or
green neonatal
tube (heparin);
amniotic fluid:
sterile
containers
supplied by lab
green tube or
green
neonatal tube
(heparin)
CVS and Skin to be sent in
transport medium or sterile
saline. Please alert lab in
advance for CVS and skin
samples. Do NOT freeze
samples and transport
immediately / urgently to the lab.
Store between 2 to 8°C.
DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)
Chylomicrons, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Citrate, urinerandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urine
Collect urine in acid (urine pH <
3).
Collect urine in acid
(urine pH < 3).Chem
Citrulline yellow gel Chem IMD
Clostridium difficile PCR
Pseudomembranous colitis/
C. difficile toxin/ C. difficile
test/ GenXpert C.diff
Watery stool
(rejected if
formed stool is
received)
Only from inpatients with
diarrhoea starting >72 hours after
admission. Electronic
Gatekeeping limits testing to one
test in 2 month period.
Stools can be
transported at room
temperature for up to 24
hours and can be stored
at 2 °C - 8 °C for up to 5
days.
Micro
CMV IgG Cytomegalovirus IgG yellow gel
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
CMV IgM Cytomegalovirus IgM yellow gel
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
CMV PCR, aspirate Cytomegalovirus PCR aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
CMV PCR, biopsy material Cytomegalovirus PCR biopsy in salineNever in formalin for virological
testing
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
CMV PCR, CSF Cytomegalovirus PCR CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
CMV PCR, urine Cytomegalovirus PCR urineSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
CMV viral load, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
GPL2952 v5
CMV viral load, CSF CSF Arrange with pathologistSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
CO2 total Bicarbonate yellow gel green Chem
Cold agglutinin titre Cold Agglutinin screen purple purple
Arrange with lab in advance.
Blood to be taken and kept at 37
degrees celcius
Must be performed on
siteHaem
Complement, TotalTotal haemolytic
complementyellow gel
Only submit clotted sample, as
Plasma samples CANNOT be
used. Deliver clotted blood
sample to lab on ice (up to 4
hours). If > 4 hours, serum
should be submitted frozen at -
20oC. Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable as
incomplete lysis may occur.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used. Deliver clotted
blood sample to lab on
ice (up to 4 hours). If > 4
hours, serum should be
submitted frozen at -
20oC. Lipaemic,
haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable
as incomplete lysis may
occur.
Immuno
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
(21-hydroxylase) (CYP21A2)
whole gene screen
CAH; CY21A2 purple purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Copper Cu yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab on ice. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Copper, liver Wilson's disease liver biopsyNo additive. Deliver to lab at
room temperature in foil
Discuss with chemical
pathologistChem IMD
Copper, urinetimed urine (2
hours)
timed urine (2
hours)
Do not collect in a glass or metal
container. Deliver to lab on ice.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Corneal scrapings
2 slides labelled
on frosted
edge, 1 BHI
plate and broth
Kits available in C18 Micro
Cortisol yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Cortisol, saliva salivette salivette
Saliva to be collected in a
salivette (obtainable from lab)
only.
Chem
GPL2952 v5
Cortisol, urine 24 hour urine 24 hour urine Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Coxiella IFAT Q Fever serology yellow gel
Usually batched. Performed
weekly. (Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
Coxsackie B antibody titre yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
CPEO (Chronic progressive
external ophthalmaplegia)mtDNA deletions
urine (min
10ml) or
muscle biopsy
preferred in
addition to
EDTA blood
Muscle preferred Frozen (Deliver
to lab immediately / on dry ice);
EDTA blood - only in patients
under 20 years of age. Do NOT
freeze. Must reach lab within 3
days.
Send muscle on dry ice;
Send urine and blood
with cold block in cold
box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
C-peptide yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
CPT2 (Carnitine
palmitoyltransferase II) whole
gene screen
CPTase purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
C-reactive protein CRP yellow gel green Chem
Creatine kinase CK yellow gel green Chem
Creatine kinase MB CKMB green greenDeliver to laboratory by hand on
iceNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Creatinine yellow gel green Chem
Creatinine clearance24 hour urine
and yellow gel
24 hour urine
and green
Submit blood sample taken within
collection periodChem
Creatinine, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Creatinine, urinerandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urineChem
Crigler-Najjar (UGT1A whole
gene screen)
Hyperbilirubinemia / Gilbert
syndromepurple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Cryptococcus antigen detection,
blood
CLAT; Cryptococcal latex
agglutination testyellow gel Micro
Cryptococcus antigen detection,
CSF
CLAT; Cryptococcal latex
agglutination test
Sterile screw-
top tube Micro
Crystals Urate crystals joint fluid Micro
GPL2952 v5
CSF cultureCerebrospinal fluid culture;
Culture (CSF)
Sterile screw-
top tube
Routine culture for 3 days is
performed on all samples. This
will detect bacterial and most
cryptococcal infections. Extended
culture for up to 6 weeks is
performed on request where a
low cryptococcal burden is
expected: in HIV +ve patients
with suspected recurrent
cryptococcal disease and in HIV-
ve patients who are cryptococcal
antigen positive, but culture
negative after 2-3 days
incubation. TB culture will be
performed on request, provided
cell count and/or history
supports request.
Transport at room
temperature as sending
on ice may affect the
culture of some
fastidious organisms
Micro
CSF microscopy
Cerebrospinal fluid
microscopy; Microscopy
(CSF)
Sterile screw-
top tube
A Gram stain is performed on all
CSFs. India Ink microscopy for
cryptococcus is no longer
performed as cryptococcal
antigen detection is more
sensitive. Cryptococcal antigen
detection is performed for all
HIV+ patients (if this information
is provided), otherwise only if
requested. TB microscopy is no
longer performed as GeneXpert
MTB/Rif is more sensitive.
GeneXpert MTB/Rif will be
performed on request, provided
cell count and/or history
supports request.
Micro
Cryoglobulins yellow gel yellow gelCollect and deliver specimen at
37°C.Chem
Cysticercus ELISA
Cysticercus
serology/(Neuro)cysticercos
is/Antibodies to Taenia
solium
yellow gel
Usually batched. Performed
weekly. (Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
GPL2952 v5
Cyclosporine purple purpleGSH specimens to be sent
directly to Pharmacology
For GSH or UCTPAH
patients only. Not offered
here for any other
patients.
Chem
Cystine, leukocytes green greenMinimum 4ml required. Do not
freeze
Green, minimum 4ml. Do
not freezeChem
Cystinosis common mutation
(c.971-12G>A)CTNS purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Cytogenetics/chromosome
analysis (haematological cancer)Karyotyping
green, bone
marrow in
heparin tube
green, bone
marrow in
heparin tube
Pre book and to be delivered
<1hr.
Store between 2 to 8°C.
DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)
Cytomegalovirus pp65
antigenaemia assayPP65 N/A N/A
No longer available. Request
CMV viral load.Not available Viro
Cytospin, ascitic fluid purple or sterilepurple or
sterile
Sample as fresh as possible.
>2ml needed<24 hours old Haem
Cytospin, CSF CSF Cytospin purple or sterilepurple or
sterile
Sample as fresh as possible.
>1ml needed<1 hour old Haem
Cytospin, pleural fluid purple or sterilepurple or
sterile
Sample as fresh as possible.
>2ml needed<24 hours old Haem
D-dimers blue blue To be delivered within 6hrsTo be delivered within
6hrsHaem
Dentatorubral palidolyusian
atrophy DRPLA
purple or
amniotic fluid3 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Cystine, urine
timed urine
collection or
random urine
timed urine
collection or
random urine
Refrigerate specimen during
collection. Deliver to lab on ice.
Send urine frozen on dry
iceChem
Deoxypyridinoline, urine random urine random urine Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Differential count White Cell differential purple purpleDeliver immediately to the
laboratory. Do NOT refrigerate.
Sample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
Direct Coombs test Coombs, DAGT purple purple <24 hours old Haem
DNA extraction purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
GPL2952 v5
Duchenne/Becker Muscular
Dystrophy (DMD)
Testing for exonic
deletions/duplications
(MLPA)
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Duchenne/Becker Muscular
Dystrophy (DMD): microsatellite
linkage analysis
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
EBV EBNA IgG
EBV serology; EBV IgG;
EBV IgM; Epstein Barr
Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG;
EBNA IgG, Monospot
yellow gel
For EBV serology requests, EBV
EBNA IgG will be performed,
followed by reflex testing if
indicated. Please specify if reflex
IgM testing is desired. Please
send a full tube for viral serology.
Viro
EBV MonospotNot available as primary
requestN/A
For EBV serology requests, EBV
EBNA IgG will be performed,
followed by reflex testing if
indicated. Please specify if reflex
IgM testing is desired. Please
send a full tube for viral serology.
Viro
EBV PCR Epstein Barr Virus PCR biopsy in salineViral load is performed on blood
and CSF
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
EBV VCA IgMNot available as primary
requestN/A
For EBV serology requests, EBV
EBNA IgG will be performed,
followed by reflex testing if
indicated. Please specify if reflex
IgM testing is desired. Please
send a full tube for viral serology.
Viro
EBV Viral load, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
EBV Viral load, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Echinococcus ELISA Hydatid serology yellow gelUsually batched(Tuesdays). (Test
performed at TBH Immunology)Micro
GPL2952 v5
DHEAS yellow gel yellow gel
For transport <48hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >48hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
ENA
Extractable nuclear antigen;
consists of anti-SmD
(Smith) antibody (using the
SmD3 peptide) & anti-
RNP70 (ribonucleoprotein)
antibody. Reference range
changed for SmD: <7 U/ml
= negative; 7-10 U/ml =
equivocal; >10 U/ml =
positive.
yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Enterovirus PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Enterovirus PCR, stool stoolSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Enterovirus PCR, throat throat swabSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Erythrocyte Sedimentation rate ESR, Westergren black or purple purple <12 hours old Haem
Elastase, stoolrandom stool
sample
random stool
sampleMinimum 5ml
Discuss with chemical
pathology registrarChem
Erythropoietin yellow gel yellow gel Not done at GSH/RxH Chem
Factor II blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay.
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor inhibitor assay Inhibitor assay blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor inhibitor screen blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor IX blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor V blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
GPL2952 v5
Factor V Leiden PCR Factor V; FV mutation purple purple1X5ml tube. To reach lab within 3
days.Send whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem
Factor VII blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor VIII blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor X blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor XI blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor XII blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. At least 8ml blood
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Factor XIII Urea clot lysis time blue blueFrozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Fanconi's anaemiaChromosomal breakage
analysisheparin heparin
Fresh sample. At least 8ml blood
needed
Store between 2 to 8°C.
DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)
Estradiol yellow gel yellow gel
For transport <48hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >48hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
Fibrinogen blue blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay.
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Fibroblasts Tissue culture skin biopsy
Sterile in tissue culture medium
or saline. Do not freeze. Discuss
with chemical pathologist
Chem IMD
FISH (Aneuploidy)
Down Syndrome, Edward &
Patau syndrome, Turner
syndrome, Klinefelter
syndrome
green tube or
green neonatal
tube (heparin);
amniotic fluid:
sterile
containers
supplied by lab
green tube or
green
neonatal tube
(heparin)
Discuss with lab in advance. At
least 4ml amniotic fluid in sterile
tube needed
Store between 2 to 8°C.
DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)
GPL2952 v5
FISH (haematological cancer)
bone marrow in
heparin tube
(green)/purple
(EDTA)
tube/bone
marrow slides
bone marrow
in heparin
tube
(green)/purple
(EDTA)
tube/bone
marrow slides
Discuss with lab/haematologist in
advance
Store between 2 to 8°C.
DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)
FISH (microdeletions)
Di George, Prader Willi,
Angelman, Williams
Beuren, Smith-Magenis,
Miller-Dieker, Phelan-
McDermid
green tube or
green neonatal
tube (heparin);
amniotic fluid:
sterile
containers
supplied by lab
green tube or
green
neonatal tube
(heparin)
At least 4ml amniotic fluid
needed in sterile tube
Store between 2 to 8°C.
DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)
Flow cytometry/
immunophenotyping, bone
marrow or blood
purple purpleMust be booked in advance -
keep sample at room temp
Sample must be < 24
hours old. Transfix may
be used in situation
where a time delay is
inevitable
Haem
FLT3 AL mutationFLT3 TK ; FLT3 D835;
FLT3 ALpurple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone
marrow aspirate (preferred
sample). To reach lab within 3
days
Send whole blood or BM
at RT C21Molecular haem
FLT3 ITD mutation FLT3 ITD purple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone
marrow aspirate (preferred
sample). To reach lab within 3
days
Send whole blood or BM
at RT C21Molecular haem
FLT3 mutations (ITD and AL) FLT3 mutations purple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone
marrow aspirate (preferred
sample). To reach lab within 3
days
Send whole blood or BM
at RT C21Molecular haem
GPL2952 v5
FNA Fine needle aspirates
Aspiration of
solid masses
require
smearing and
immediate
fixaion (<5s) on
a slide.
Aspiration of
fluids should be
placed in sterile
empty 50-100
ml containers
with equal
volume 50%
alcohol.
Prior booking required and
should be arranged with lab at
RXH or GSH depending on
location. Arrange with lab staff to
perform smears.
Slides should be clearly
labelled with pencil and
placed in a slide holder.
Please check fluids
aspirated are fixed with
equal volumes of 50-70%
alcohol.
Cytology
Ferritin yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Folate, red cell Red cell folate purple purple
Requires minimum 2x5ml blood.
Must be a separate specimen
from other tests.
Stable for 24hrs at room
temperature. Analysis to
be performed within this
time.
Chem
Folate, serum yellow gel yellow gel Transport at 2-8 °CSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Fragile X syndrome FRAXApurple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Follicle stimulating hormone FSH yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send at RTChem
Free fatty acids FFAyellow gel or
grey or green
yellow gel or
grey or green
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
Discuss with a chemical
pathology registrarChem
Free light chains yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood neededNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Free T3 triidothyronine yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
Separate serum and
send on iceChem
GPL2952 v5
Friedreich’s Ataxia FRDApurple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Frozen sectionsFresh, unfixed,
clearly marked.
Fresh,
unfixed,
clearly
marked.
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
Please contact the
laboratory (currently
offered onsite at GSH ,
Red X and 2Mil).
Histology GSH
Free T4thyroxine;
tetraiodothyronineyellow gel
green or
yellow gel
Separate serum and
send on iceChem
FTA, CSF Syphilis serology (FTA)
CSF (serum
FTA has been
replaced by the
TP assay - see
syphilis
serology)
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). Micro
Full Blood CountFBC; CBC; Complete Blood
Count; Blood countpurple purple
Sample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
Fungal culture Culture (fungal)Sample from
infected siteMicro
Fungal microscopy Microscopy (fungal)Sample from
infected siteMicro
G6PD Screen and Assay
Glucose-6-phosphate
dehydrogenase deficiency
screening
purple purple Fresh sample
Keep sample at 40C and
refer to reference
laboratory within 7 days
of sampling.
Haem - RXH
Fructosamine yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood neededNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem
GALT (Galactosemia) whole gene
screen
Galactose-1 phosphate
uridyl transferase deficiencypurple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days. Recent blood transfusion
contra-indicates test.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
GPL2952 v5
GALT (Galactosemia) enzyme
activity
Galactose-1 phosphate
uridyl transferase deficiencygreen green
Minimum 4ml. Requires control
sample. Arrange with lab. Do
NOT centrifuge. Recent blood
transfusion contra-indicates test.
Patient to be on galactose
(lactose) containing diet.
Minimum 4ml. Requires
control sample. Arrange
with lab. Do NOT
centrifuge. Recent blood
transfusion contra-
indicates test. Patient to
be on galactose (lactose)
containing diet
Chem
Gamma glutamyl transferase GGT yellow gel green Chem
GBM AbAnti - glomerular basement
membraneyellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
GeneXpert MTB/Rif TB PCR/ GeneXpert/XpertRespiratory
specimens
Performed routinely on
respiratory samples according to
national guidelines. Selected
extra-pulmonary specimens
(CSF, tissues, FNAs) are tested
on request.
Micro
Gastrin yellow gel yellow gelFresh blood (less than 1 hour
old) required.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Gentamicin yellow gel green2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood neededChem
Glucose grey green or grey2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood neededChem
Glucose, CSF grey plain tubeRecommended simultaneous
blood glucose measurement.Chem
Glucose, fluid grey plain tube Chem
Glutaric Acidemia Type 1
common mutation (A293T)
Glutaric Aciduria / GA1/
GAT1/GCDH genepurple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Glutaric Acidemia Type 1 whole
gene screen
Glutaric Aciduria / GA1/
GAT1/GCDH genepurple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Glutathione synthetase whole
gene screenGSS purple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Glucose, urine (dipstix) random urine random urineDeliver immediately to lab on ice
within 4 hours.Chem
Glycated haemoglobin HbA1c purple purple Chem
GPL2952 v5
Gradient gel electrophoresis for
VLDL, IDL, LDL
LDL particle size;
dysbetalipoproteinaemia;
Type lll hyperlipidaemia;
lipoprotein X
purple 1 x 5mL EDTA; do NOT freeze.
All tests performed on
research budget. Please
arrange by discussion
with Prof Marais for lipid
chemistry including fatty
acids, sterols and
lipoprotein
characterisation
Lipid (Non NHLS)
Glycine, CSFplain tube CSF
and yellow gel
plain tube
CSF and
green
Submit simultaneous yellow gel
or green top blood sample.
Send frozen on dry ice in
plain tubeChem
Haemoglobin Hb; Hemoglobin purple purpleSample must be < 72
hours oldHaem
Haemoglobin A2Thalassaemia
testing/haemoglobin studiespurple purple
Clinical haematologist
authorisation required
Sample must be < 72
hours oldHaem
Haemoglobin
electrophoresis/HPLC
Thalassaemia
testing/haemoglobin studiespurple purple
Clinical haematologist
authorisation required
Sample must be < 72
hours oldHaem
Haemoglobin FThalassaemia
testing/haemoglobin studiespurple purple
Clinical haematologist
authorisation required
Sample must be < 72
hours oldHaem
Haemoglobin H inclusion bodies Hb H purple purpleSample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
Hain test TB PCR
Sputum,
tracheal
aspirate and
other
respiratory
samples.
The Hain test is used within the
laboratory to detect rifampicin
and isoniazid resistant MTB. It is
not usually performed directly on
smear positive sputum. Any
requests must be discussed with
micrologist in advance.
Micro
Ham's test see PNH flow see PNH flow Discontinued Haem
Growth hormone GH yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Haptoglobin yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum
at RTChem
Heinz Bodies purple purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
Sample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
Helicobacter pylori antibodies yellow gel Performed at Tswane laboratory Micro
GPL2952 v5
Heparin Induced
ThrombocytopeniaHIT yellow gel
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
2 to 8°C (Do not Freeze).
5 ml blood needed. <24
hours old
Haem
Hepatitis A IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Hepatitis A IgM yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Hepatitis B Core antibody (total) yellow gelDetects exposure to the virus /
previous infectionViro
Hepatitis B Core IgM yellow gelDetects acute infection /
reactivationViro
Hepatitis B drug resistance
testing (Lamivudine)yellow / purple
Only performed if Hepatitis B viral
load is detectable
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Hepatitis B e Ab yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Hepatitis B e Ag yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Hepatitis B PCRLiver biopsy in
salineViral load is performed on blood Viro
Hepatitis B s Ab yellow gel Detects immunity Viro
Hepatitis B s Ag yellow gel Detects current infection. Viro
Hepatitis B Viral load yellow / purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Hepatitis C Antibody yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Hepatitis C PCR purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Hepatitis C Viral genotyping purpleOnly performed if Hepatitis C
PCR positive
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Hepatitis C Viral load purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Herpes simplex virus IgG HSV IgG yellow gel
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
GPL2952 v5
Herpes simplex virus IgM HSV IgM yellow gel
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
Herpes simplex virus PCR,
aspirateHSV PCR aspirate Viro
Herpes simplex virus PCR, biopsy
materialHSV PCR biopsy in saline
Never in formalin for virological
testingViro
Herpes simplex virus PCR, CSF HSV PCR CSF Viro
Herpes simplex virus PCR, swab HSV PCR swab Viro
HHV6 IgG Human Herpes Virus 6 IgG N/ANo longer available. See HHV6
PCR.Viro
HHV6 IgM Human Herpes Virus 6 IgM N/ANo longer available. See HHV6
PCR.Viro
HHV6 PCR, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
HHV6 PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
HHV8 PCR, aspirate aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
HHV8 PCR, biopsy material biopsy in salineNever in formalin for virological
testing
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Histology (routine)
Empty sterile
bottles/buckets
containing
ample amounts
of 10%formalin
Blue / Lilac lid
container in
10 % formalin
Specimens should be
sent in tightly sealed
containers with adequate
amounts of 10% formalin.
Histology GSH
Histoplasma serology yellow gel
All requests should be discussed
in advance with microbiologist. If
approved test may be referred to
private pathology lab.
Micro
GPL2952 v5
Histoplasma urine antigen test
Urine, a tissue
biopsy sample
for culture and
EDTA blood for
staining may
also be sent
Test is currently being validated
and is performed at the Mycology
reference unit NICD free of
charge. A special form giving
essential patient information
must be completed. Forms
available in microbiology
reception.
Send at 2-4°C Micro
HIV 1 Western Blot yellow gel
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. This will only be done
after consultation with a
virologist, and if indicated by
routine serology.
Only primary tubes will
be tested. Aliquots sent
in secondary tubes will
be rejected.
Viro
HIV 1/2 4th generation ELISA yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.
Only primary tubes will
be tested. Aliquots sent
in secondary tubes will
be rejected.
Viro
HIV 1/2 rapid test (antibody) yellow gel purpleOnly done after hours on
occupational exposure cases
Only primary tubes will
be tested. Aliquots sent
in secondary tubes will
be rejected.
Viro
HIV 2 Western Blot yellow gel Not available Not available Viro
HIV-1 drug resistance testing purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
HIV-1 p24 Antigen yellow gel
Only performed if indicated by
routine serology. Request HIV
ELISA.
Only primary tubes will
be tested. Aliquots sent
in secondary tubes will
be rejected.
Viro
HIV-1 PCR purpleNot performed on persons over
the age of 18 months
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
HIV-1 Viral Loadpurple / plasma
separation tube
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
HLA – Class I Serological Typing HLA-AB Tissue Typing gold - ACD
Please
contact the
laboratory to
discuss
volume of
blood to be
taken
Mix tube thoroughly to prevent
clotting. Sample not to be more
than 24 hours old on arrival in
lab. At least 10ml sample taken
at GSH
Send whole blood at
Room TemperatureTissue Immuno
GPL2952 v5
HLA antibody screening and
identification
HLA Serum Screening.
HLA Cytotoxic Antibodies
Lymphocytoxic Antibodies
yellow gel Tissue Immuno
HLA Crossmatching – Class I Crossmatch
patient: yellow
gel and golden
(ACD) .
potential donor:
golden (ACD)
Please
contact the
laboratory to
discuss
volume of
blood to be
taken
Mix yellow tubes without gel
thoroughly to prevent clotting.
Sample not to be more than 24
hours old on arrival in lab.
Send whole blood at
Room TemperatureTissue Immuno
HLA Typing – DNA-PCR – High
Resolution per allelepurple
Please
contact the
laboratory to
discuss
volume of
blood to be
taken
If other DNA typing is requested
no further samples are needed.
At least 25ml blood needed (5
tubes)
Tissue Immuno
HLA Typing Class I – DNA-PCR –
Low Resolution per locus
HLA-A or B or Cw DNA
Typing. HLA Class I DNA
typing
purple
Please
contact the
laboratory to
discuss
volume of
blood to be
taken
Mix thoroughly to prevent
clotting. At least 25ml blood
needed (5 tubes)
Tissue Immuno
HLA Typing Class II – DNA-PCR
– Low Resolution per locus
HLA Class II DNA typing.
HLA-DRB1, DQB1 typingpurple
Please
contact the
laboratory to
discuss
volume of
blood to be
taken
If other DNA typing is requested
no further samples are needed.
At least 25ml blood needed (5
tubes)
Tissue Immuno
HLA-B27 or other test for a
specific HLA antigenpurple
Mix tube thoroughly to prevent
clotting. At least 10ml blood
needed (2 tubes)
Tissue Immuno
HDL cholesterol yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Homocysteine purple purple
Recommend fasting and 6h post
methionine load. Deliver to lab on
ice.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
HTLV-1 PCR, blood purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
GPL2952 v5
HTLV-1 PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Huntington and Huntington-like
Disease HD and HDL2
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Hyperlipidaemia type 1 gene Lipoprotein lipase purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Hypoxanthine phosphoribose
tranferase whole gene screenHPRT; Lesch-Nyhan purple
Discuss with lab beforehand. Do
not freeze. Must reach lab within
5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Homovanillic acid, urine HVA 24 hour urine
3 spot urines
collected in
tube
containing HCl
Collect urine in acid (urine pH <
3)
Collect urine in acid
(pH<3). The correct ratio
is 10ml urine to 0.25ml
6M HCl.
Chem
IgA yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum
at RTChem
IgG yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum
at RTChem
IgG index, CSFplain tube CSF
and yellow gel
plain tube
CSF and
yellow gel
Submit simultaneous yellow gel
blood sample.Send CSF on ice Chem
IgM yellow gel yellow gelYellow gel tube or serum
at RTChem
INRProthrombin time; Warfarin
monitoringblue blue To reach lab within 4hrs
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
ImmunofixationSerum protein
immunofixationyellow gel yellow gel
Separate serum and
send on iceChem
Insulin yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Insulin - like growth factor 1 IGF 1 yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Isopropanol stability test purple Fresh Haem
JAK2 V617F JAK2 purple purple1X 5ml peripheral blood. To
reach lab within 3 daysSend whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem
JC virus PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
GPL2952 v5
Jo Ab Anti Jo antibody yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Iron Fe yellow gel yellow gel Must reach lab within 30 minutes Chem
Ketones (qualitative) yellow gel green Chem
Ketones, acetoacetategrey, green or
yellow gel
grey, green or
yellow gel
NB Arrange with chemical
pathology registrar. Minimum 1ml
blood. Deliver on ice within 30
minutes.
Discuss with a chemical
pathology registarChem
Ketones, beta-hydroxybutyrategrey, green or
yellow gel
grey, green or
yellow gel
NB Arrange with chemical
pathology registrar. Minimum 1ml
blood. Deliver on ice within 30
minutes.
Discuss with a chemical
pathology registarChem
Kleihauer Test purple purple Fresh sample. Maternal blood Fresh Haem
KSS (Kearn-Sayers Syndrome) mtDNA deletions
Early morning
urine or muscle
biopsy
preferred in
addition to
EDTA blood
Muscle preferred Frozen (Deliver
to lab immediately / on dry ice);
EDTA blood - only in patients
under 20 years of age. Do NOT
freeze. Must reach lab within 3
days.
Send muscle on dry ice;
Send urine and blood
with cold block in cold
box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
La Ab & Ro AbAnti-La antibody & Anti-Ro
antibodyyellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Ketones, urine (dipstix) random urine random urineDeliver immediately to lab on ice
within 4 hours.Chem
Lactate grey grey
Stable for 24hrs at room
temperature. Analysis to
be performed before this
time.
Chem
Lactate dehydrogenase LDH yellow gel green Chem
Lactate dehydrogenase
isoenzymesLDH isoenzymes yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Lactate dehydrogenase, fluid LDH plain tube plain tube Chem
Lactate, CSF grey grey Deliver on ice.Not offered due to
instabilityChem
Legionella antigen detectionLegionella urinary antigen
testUrine Micro
Legionella IFATLegionella serology/
legionella antibodiesyellow gel
Usually batched. Performed
weekly. (Test performed at TBH
Immunology)
Micro
GPL2952 v5
LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA)Early morning
urine
Early morning urine only. 2 to 8
°C. DO NOT FREEZE. Deliver to
lab immediately.
Chem IMD
LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) skin biopsy2 to 8 °C. DO NOT FREEZE.
Deliver to lab immediately.Chem IMD
LEIGHS (mitochondrial DNA) muscle biopsy Frozen. Deliver to lab
immediately / on dry iceSend muscle on dry ice Chem IMD
Leptospira ELISA Leptospira serology yellow gelTest performed weekly. (Test
performed at TBH Immunology)Micro
Leukocyte alkaline phosphataseNeutrophil alkaline
phosphatase, NAP; LAPpurple
Must be done
on fresh finger
prick sample -
blood applied
to slide
Arrange with lab in advance.
<30min old specimenN/A Haem
LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic
Neuropathy)purple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
LHON (Lebers Hereditary Optic
Neuropathy)muscle biopsy
Frozen. Deliver to lab
immediately / on dry iceSend muscle on dry ice Chem IMD
Lead Pb purple purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Lipase yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Lipid electrophoresis yellow gel yellow gel Fasting blood. Chem
Lipoprotein (a) yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
LKM AbAnti-liver, kidney,
microsomal antibodyyellow gel Immuno
Lupus Anticoagulant
LAC Screen and Confirm;
DRVVT; Dilute Russel's
Viper Venom Time
blueTo reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. 4 full tubes needed
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Lithium yellow gel yellow gel NB! Lithium-free tube. Chem
Lymphoblasts Lymphs green Do not freeze. Arrange with lab in
advance. At least 10mlChem IMD
Lymphocyte subset analysis
T-cell subsets;
CD3/CD4/CD8/CD45
(CD16,CD56 if indicated)
purple purpleRoom temp. DO NOT FREEZE.
Reach lab within 24 hours.
Sample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
GPL2952 v5
MA Ab Anti-mitochondrial antibody yellow gel Immuno
Luteinizing hormone LH yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Magnesium Mg yellow gel green Chem
Malaria investigationThin and thick film; Malaria
antigen testpurple purple
Sample must be <24
hours oldHaem
McArdle’s disease point mutation
analysis
Glycogen phosphorylase;
PYGMpurple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Measles IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Measles IgM Urine no longer required yellow gel
Send with EPID form. See
measles notification. IgM not
available for routine diagnostics -
request PCR.
Peripheral labs to send
directly to NICD if
possible
Viro
Measles notification Urine no longer required yellow gel
Requires EPID form. Results
available from NICD when
processed, but this is meant for
surveillance and not diagnostics.
Peripheral labs to send
directly to NICD if
possible
Viro
Measles PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Measles PCR, throat throat swabSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Measles PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Medium chain Acyl Coenzyme A
dehydrogenase point mutation
analysis
MCAD; ACADM purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
MELAS purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
MELAS
Early morning
urine or muscle
biopsy
preferred in
addition to
EDTA blood
Muscle Frozen (Deliver to lab
immediately / on dry ice); Urine
(early morning sample only) and
EDTA blood Do NOT freeze.
Must reach lab within 3 days.
Send muscle on dry ice;
Send urine and blood
with cold block in cold
box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Magnesium, urine
timed urine
collection or
random urine
random urineCollect urine in acid (urine pH <
3)Chem
GPL2952 v5
MERRF purpleDO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab
within 5 days.Chem IMD
MERRF
Early morning
urine or muscle
biopsy
preferred in
addition to
EDTA blood
Muscle Frozen (Deliver to lab
immediately / on dry ice); Urine
(early morning sample only) and
EDTA blood Do NOT freeze.
Must reach lab within 3 days.
Send muscle on dry ice;
Send urine and blood
with cold block in cold
box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Mercury Hg purple purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Metabolic screen, urine random urine random urineMinimum 10ml. Deliver
immediately to lab on ice.
Send urine frozen on dry
iceChem
Metanephrines fractionated, urineIndividual normetanephrine
and metanephrine levels24 hour urine 24 hour urine
Collect urine in acid (urine pH <
3). Please supply patient height
and weight.
As described adjacent Chem
Methaemoglobin MHb green green
NB!! Completely filled tube (5ml).
No air. Deliver to lab immediately
on ice.
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Methyltetrahydrofolate reductase
mutation PCR
MTHFR mutation PCR
C677Tpurple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood. To
reach lab within 3 daysSend whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem
GPL2952 v5
Microdeletion syndromes:
1p36 deletion syndrome
2p16 microdeletion
2q23 microdeletion / MBD5
2q33 microdeletion / SATB2
3q29 microdeletion
9q22.3 microdeletion
15q24 deletion syndrome
17q21 microdeletion
22q13 / Phelan-McDermid
Cri du Chat syndrome,
5p15
DiGeorge syndrome 22q11
Distal 22q11 region
DiGeorge region 2, 10p14
Langer-Giedion syndrome,
8q
Miller-Dieker syndrome,
17p
NF1 microdeletion
syndrome
Prader-Willi / Angelman
MECP2 / Xq28 duplication
Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome
Smith-Magenis syndrome
Sotos syndrome 5q35.3
Williams syndrome
Wolf-Hirschhorn 4p16.3
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Microfilaria purple Arrange with lab in advance. <12 hours old Haem
Microsatellite Instability (MSI)MSI in Lynch syndrome
using Bethesda markers
purple, fresh or
parrafin
embedded
tumour tissue
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Mitochondrial Polymerase G
(POLG) whole genePOLG purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
GPL2952 v5
Mitochondrially encoded non-
syndromic deafness MT RNR-1 / MT TS-1 purple
DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Mt DNA mutations screen for
MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighspurple
DO NOT FREEZE. Reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Mt DNA mutations screen for
MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighsskin biopsy
2 to 8 °C DO NOT FREEZE.
Send to lab immediately.Chem IMD
Mt DNA mutations screen for
MERRF, MELAS, NARP, Leighs
Mt DNA mutations screen
for MERRF, MELAS,
NARP, Leighs
Early morning
urine or muscle
biopsy
preferred in
addition to
EDTA blood
Muscle Frozen (Deliver to lab
immediately / on dry ice); Urine
and EDTA blood Do NOT freeze.
Must reach lab within 3 days.
Send muscle on dry ice;
Send urine and blood
with cold block in cold
box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Methotrexate yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Mumps IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Mumps IgM yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Mumps virus PCR, CSF CSF Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Mumps virus PCR, saliva salivaSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Mumps virus PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Muramidase, serum Discontinued N/A Haem
Muramidase, urine Discontinued N/A Haem
Muscle biopsies
Unfixed,
wrapped in
gauze
Dampened in saline if delayed.
Prior booking required.Histology (Red Cross)
Mycoplasma IFAT Mycoplasma serology yellow gelTest performed at Immunology
laboratory, Braamfontein, Jhb.Micro
Mucopolysaccharides Glycosaminoglycans random urine random urine
Minimum 5ml urine. Deliver to lab
immediately on ice. Arrange with
lab.
Send urine frozen on dry
iceChem
Myoglobin green green Deliver to laboratory immediately. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
NARP purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
NARP skin biopsy2 to 8 °C DO NOT FREEZE.
Send to lab immediately.Chem IMD
GPL2952 v5
NARP muscle biopsy Frozen. Deliver to lab
immediately / on dry iceSend muscle on dry ice Chem IMD
NAT2 haplotyping N-acetyl transferase2 purpleDo NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Nocardia culture Culture for NocardiaSample from
infected site
Indicate request for Nocardia
culture clearly on request form.Micro
NPM1 exon 12 mutations NPM1 purple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood or bone
marrow aspirate (preferred
sample). To reach lab within 3
days
Send whole blood or BM
at RTC21Molecular haem
Myoglobin, urine (qualitative) random urine random urineMinimum 10ml. Deliver
immediately to lab on ice.Chem
NT- ProBNP green greenArrange with lab. Deliver to
laboratory immediately.Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
NTX, urineN-telopeptide, bone
resorption markerrandom urine random urine
Second morning urine. Protect
from light (wrap in foil).Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Occult blood, stool random stool random stoolDeliver to lab immediately (within
8 hours).
Not offered due to
instabilityChem
Oligoclonal bands, CSFplain tube CSF
and yellow gel
plain tube
CSF and
yellow gel
Send simultaneous blood sample
in yellow gel. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Ornithine transcarbamylase gene
screenOTC gene purple
Do NOT freeze. Reach lab within
5 days
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Orotic acid Urea cycle disorder Random urine Arrange with lab beforehand. Chem IMD
Organic acids, urine random urine random urineMinimum 5ml. Deliver to lab
immediately.
Send urine frozen on dry
iceChem
Osmolality yellow gel greenSeparate specimen. Deliver to
lab immediately on ice.Chem
Osmolality, stool watery stool watery stool Deliver to lab on ice. Deliver to lab on ice. Chem
Osmotic Fragility Hereditary Spherocytosis purple purple Arrange with lab in advance N/A Haem
Osmolality, urine random urine random urine Chem
Osteocalcin yellow gel yellow gel Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Oxalatetimed urine
collection
timed urine
collectionAcidified urine. Chem
Paracetamol Acetaminophen yellow gel green Chem
GPL2952 v5
Parechovirus, CSF CSF
If parechovirus is requested, it
will be done together with
enterovirus PCR.
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Parvovirus B19 IgG
Parvovirus B19 immunity,
Parvovirus B19 IgG, past
exposure
yellow gel
Only for establishing past
infections or seroconversion.
IgM not available. Please specify
that IgG is required, or else PCR
will be done.
Viro
Parvovirus B19 IgM N/A
No longer available. Request
PCR for acute infection or IgG to
establish past infection or
seroconversion.
Viro
Parvovirus PCR, amniotic fluid amniotic fluid Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Parvovirus PCR, blood yellow / purpleSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Parvovirus PCR, bone marrow bone marrowSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
PCP antigen detectionPCP DFAT; Pneumocystis
jiroveciiscrew-top tube
Induced sputum or
bronchoalveolar (BAL) washings
in a firmly closed screw-top
container
Micro
PDH E1a gene (Pyruvate
dehydrogenase E 1a)
PDCD / congenital infantile
lactic acidosis / intermittent
ataxia with lactic acidosis /
x-linked Leigh syndrome /
PDH A1
purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Pearson’s disease mtDNA deletions purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Parathyroid hormone PTH purple purpleNot offered due to
instabilityChem
Phosphate, inorganic Phosphate, Pi yellow gel green Chem
Platelet Aggregation Platelet function testPatient (not sample only) to be
referred to Tygerberg Hospital N/A Haem
Platelet count PLT purple purpleSample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
PML/RARαAPL PCR molecular testing;
PML/Raralpha; PMLpurple purple
1x 5ml BM aspirate - Immediately
on ice and to lab within 24 hrs on
ice
Send on ice C21Molecular haem
GPL2952 v5
PNH screen CDPNH purple Must be booked in advanceSample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
Phosphate, urine Phosphate, Pirandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urine
Collect urine in acid (urine pH <
3). For tubular reabsorption of
phosphate: require yellow gel
(GSH) / green (RXH) tube blood
taken simultaneously.
Chem
Porphyria screen (acute or
chronic)
urine, stool and
EDTA blood
urine, stool
and EDTA
blood
Protect samples from lightUrine, stool and EDTA
bloodChem
Potassium K yellow gel green Chem
Potassium, stool watery stool watery stool Chem
Primary hyperoxaluria (AGXT)
common mutation (p.A112D)
alanine-glyoxylate
aminotransferase / Primary
hyperoxaluria type 1 /
Glycolicaciduria
purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Primary hyperoxaluria (AGXT)
whole gene screen
alanine-glyoxylate
aminotransferase / Primary
hyperoxaluria type 1 /
Glycolicaciduria
purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Pro-BNP (NT)yellow gel or
greenDeliver to lab on ice. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Procalcitonin PCT yellow gel greenSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Progesterone yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Prolactin yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Prostatic specific antigen (total) PSA, Total yellow gelSeparate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Protein C blue
To reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. Clinical
haematologist authorisation
required
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Prostatic specific antigen,free
ratioF-PSA ratio yellow gel
Separate serum and
send frozen on dry iceChem
Protein S blue
To reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay. Clinical
haematologist authorisation
required
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Protein electrophoresis, serum SPE yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
GPL2952 v5
Prothrombin mutation PCRThrombin gene mutation
G20210Apurple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood. To
reach lab within 3 daysSend whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem
PTTPartial thromboplastin time;
Heparin monitoringblue blue
To reach lab within 4hrs - contact
lab if delay
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Pus culture Culture (pus)
Pus: sterile
swab, screw-
top tube or
sealed syringe.
Please indicate site as selective
media may be required.Send at 2-4°C Micro
Pus microscopy Microscopy (pus)
Pus: sterile
swab, screw-
top tube or
sealed syringe.
Micro
Protein, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem
Primary hyperoxaluria (AGXT)
whole gene screen
alanine-glyoxylate
aminotransferase / Primary
hyperoxaluria type 1 /
Glycolicaciduria
purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Pyruvate kinase enzyme activity haemolytic anaemiagreen or
purple (2ml)
Discuss with chemical
pathologist. Must be sent with 2
normal controls
Send at 4C. Must reach
lab within 2 days,
preferably at the start of
a week
Chem IMD
QF-PCR (Aneuploidy)
Down Syndrome, Edwards
& Patau syndrome, Turner
syndrome, Klinefelter
syndrome
purple (EDTA)
tube or
amniotic fluid
purple (EDTA)
tube
Discuss with lab in advance. At
least 4ml amniotic fluid in sterile
tube needed
Store between 2 to 8°C.
DO NOT FREEZE.Genetics (cyto)
Rabies, suspectedCSF, saliva,
clotted bloodContact pathologist or NICD
Send on ice. Peripheral
labs to send directly to
NICD if possible
Viro
HIV rapid - after hours HIV, Rapid yellow gel
Performed by Micro/Chem on
behalf of the Virology lab in
cases of sharps injury after
16h00 and before 08h00. Other
reasons for testing must be
motivated with the Virology
consultant on call
Micro
Rectal biopsies
In 10%
formalin as
routine
2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood neededHistology (Red Cross)
GPL2952 v5
Red Cell Membrane studies
Hereditary red cell
membrane disorders eg
Hereditary Spherocytosis
gold 2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
2 to 8 °C (Do not
Freeze). At least 10ml
blood needed - can be
sent directly to Jhb
Haem
Pyruvate grey grey
NB. Arrange with chem path
registrar. Deliver on ice within 10
minutes.
Discuss with chemical
pathology registarChem
Reducing Substances, stoolBenedicts qualitative
glucosestool stool
Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab on
ice.Send frozen on dry ice Chem
Renal biopsies
Prior notification required, then
contact lab 5-10 minutes in
advance for collection.
Please contact the
laboratory for renal,
muscle and nerve
biopsies (which may
require fresh tissue sent
on ice).
Histology GSH
Reducing Substances, urine Benedicts qualitative
glucoserandom urine random urine
Minimum 5ml. Deliver to lab on
ice.Send frozen on dry ice Chem
Respiratory Virus PCR,
respiratory secretions
respiratory
secretions
Mulitplex PCR for Adenovirus,
influenza A and B, RSV,
Rhinovirus A, Metapneumovirus,
Parainfluenza1/2/3
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Reticulocyte count purple purpleN/A - must be done
onsiteHaem
Renin, active purple purple Do NOT refrigerate.
Purple tube, separate
plasma, freeze rapidly
and must remain frozen
on dry ice during
transport
Chem
Rhesus grouping Rh purple purple2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 5ml blood needed
Not offered due to
instability.Haem
Rickettsia IFAT
Rickettsia or tick bite fever
serology; Weil Felix (Note:
The Weil Felix has been
replaced by the more
specific Rickettsial
serology)
yellow gelTests are performed weekly.(Test
performed at TBH Immunology)Micro
Ro Ab & La Ab Anti-Ro & Anti-La antibody yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Rotavirus Rapid test, stool stool Done with adenovirus 40/41Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
GPL2952 v5
RPR Syphilis serology (RPR) yellow gel
The specific treponemal antibody
is performed first and if positive
will be confirmed by an RPR
Micro
Rubella IgG yellow gel
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
Rubella IgM yellow gel
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
Rubella PCR, amniotic fluid amniotic fluid Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Rubella PCR, urine urineSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Ryanadine receptor common
mutation screen for autosomal
recessive centronuclear
myopathy
RYR1 mutations for AR
centronuclear myopathypurple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
RF Rheumatoid factor yellow gel yellow gel2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze). At
least 10ml blood needed
For transport <72hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >72hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
SACESerum angiotensin
converting enzymeyellow gel yellow gel Deliver directly to Pharmacology.
Not offered due to
instability. Only for GSH
or UCTPAH patients.
Chem
Schistosoma microscopy Bilharzia microscopy urine
Please indicate this request on
the form as this is NOT part of
the routine examination. Please
specifically request
CONCENTRATION of specimen.
Micro
GPL2952 v5
SCL70 Ab Anti-scleroderma antibody yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Salicylate yellow gel greenOnly for GSH or
UCTPAH patients. Chem
Short Tandem Repeats genotyping, engraftment purple purple1X 5ml peripheral blood. To
reach lab within 3 daysSend whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem
Sickle cell anaemia
c.20A>T(p.Glu7Val)
mutation in HBB gene (Hb
S)
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Sickling test Sickle cell Anaemia purple purple Fresh sample Fresh Haem
SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy)
genetic test5ml purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
SMA AbAnti - smooth muscle
antibodyyellow gel Immuno
Sex hormone binding globulin SHBG yellow gel yellow gel
For transport <72hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >72hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
Sodium Na yellow gel green Chem
Sodium, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Sodium, stool watery stool watery stool Chem
Sodium, urinerandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urineChem
Specific IgE (RAST)
Request relevant allergen
being investigated, as
RAST is not a specific test.
yellow gel
N.B. Due to the rise and fall of
circulating Specific IgE antibodies
to insect venom and drugs, blood
samples for testing with venom
and drug should be collected
from 2 to 3 weeks up to 6 months
after an insect sting or drug
exposure.
N.B. Due to the rise and
fall of circulating Specific
IgE antibodies to insect
venom and drugs, blood
samples for testing with
venom and drug should
be collected from 2 to 3
weeks up to 6 months
after an insect sting or
drug exposure.
Immuno
GPL2952 v5
Specific IgG - Aspergillus
fumigatusDISA code GORG yellow gel
Plasma samples CANNOT be
used. Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
Specific IgG - budgerigar
DISA code GE90. If avian
precipitins requested, select
GE90, GE91 and GE92.
yellow gel
Plasma samples CANNOT be
used. Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
Specific IgG - parrot
DISA code GE92. If avian
precipitins requested, select
GE90, GE91 and GE92.
yellow gel
Plasma samples CANNOT be
used. Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
Specific IgG - pigeon
DISA code GE91. If avian
precipitins requested, select
GE90, GE91 and GE92.
yellow gel
Plasma samples CANNOT be
used. Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
Spinocerebellar Ataxias SCA 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 12 & 17purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Sputum culture Culture (sputum) screw-top tube
Sputum, NOT saliva, submitted
in a firmly closed screw-top
container. If routine, fungal and
TB culture required, please
indicate order of preference of
testing in the event that
specimen volume is insufficient
for all tests.
Micro
Sputum microscopy Microscopy (sputum) screw-top tube
Sputum, NOT saliva, submitted
in a firmly closed screw-top
container. Microscopy for
pneumocystis must be
specifically requested.
Pneumocystis microscopy is only
performed on INDUCED sputum.
Send at 2-4°C Micro
GPL2952 v5
Stargardt disease (7 common ABCA4
Afrikaner mutations)
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Specific gravity, urine Specific gravity random urine random urineDeliver to lab on ice within 4
hours.Chem
Steatocrit, stool random stool random stool Minimum 5ml. Chem
Steroid-resistant Nephrotic
syndrome (NPHS2) gene screen
Congenital nephrotic
syndrome / SRN / Podocin
gene
purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Stool culture Culture (stool) screw-top tube
Routine culture includes
salmonella and shigella. Culture
for Vibrio cholerae,
enterohaemorrhagic E. coli and
any other stool pathogen is only
performed on request.
Send at 2-4°C Micro
Stool microscopy Microscopy (stool) screw-top tube
Microscopy for cryptosporidium is
performed on all children <2, HIV
positive patients with chronic
diarrhoea (if this information is
provided) and patients on
chemotherapy, otherwise on
request only. Microscopy for
microsporidium is not available in
NHLS currently. If a
CONCENTRATION is required to
look for specific parasites, please
indicate clearly on request form.
Please indicate if patient is HIV-
positive or has a travel history.
Micro
Subtelomeric deletions /
duplications
Deletions/duplications at
the teleomere ends (MLPA)
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Succinylacetone Tyrosinaemia type 1 Random urine Arrange with lab in advance. Chem IMD
GPL2952 v5
Steroid profile, urinetimed urine
collection
timed urine
collection
Minimum 200ml. Collect in boric
acid. Discuss with chemical
pathology registrar
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
SURF 1 whole gene Surfeit locus protein purpleDo NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Sulfonylurea purple purple
Requires 10ml blood (2x5ml
tubes). Separate red blood cells
from plasma and transport both
separately. Wrap the plasma in
foil
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Syphilis serology yellow gel
The treponemal specific test will
now be used as a first-line
screening for syphilis. If positive,
a non-treponemal test with titre
(i.e. RPR) will automatically be
performed.
Micro
T-cell subsets only (3 antibodies) CD4; CD8 purple purpleFresh sample. Must be booked in
advance
Sample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
Sweat test
sweat
collected at
lab or ward
Discuss with chemical pathology
registrarChem
Testosterone yellow gel yellow gelSeparate serum and
send on iceChem
Thrombin Time blue blueTo reach lab within 4 hrs -
contact lab if delay
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
Thrombophilia Screen
INR, PTT, ProtC, ProtS,
ATIII, APCR, LAC,
FVLeiden, Prothrombin
Gene mutation
purple and blue
To reach lab within 4 hours -
contact lab/haematologist if
delay. NB genetic testing (FVL,
PT mutation) generally not
appropirate in African patients.
5ml purple & 15ml blue
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry ice. EDTA
blood at room
temperature <72 hours
old for genetic tests
Haem
Thrombophilia Screen (FV,PRO
and MTHFR)
Thrombophilia mutations;
Thrombotic screenpurple purple
1X 5ml peripheral blood. To
reach lab within 3 daysSend whole blood at RT C21Molecular haem
Thymidine Kinase 2 whole gene
screenTK2 purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Theophylline yellow gelyellow gel or
green
Only for GSH or
UCTPAH patients. Chem
GPL2952 v5
Thyroglobulin yellow gel yellow gel
Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies
assayed concomitantly to assess
for potential assay interference
For transport <72hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >72hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
Thyroglobulin antibodies yellow gel yellow gel
For transport <72hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >72hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
Thyroid peroxidase yellow gel yellow gel
For transport <72hrs
separate serum and send
on ice. If >72hrs separate
serum and send frozen
on dry ice
Chem
Tissue culturesterile screw-
top container
Tissue should be submitted in
saline. A small piece of tissue
from the infected site should be
submitted. DO NOT SENT THE
WHOLE SURGICAL SPECIMEN.
Micro
Tissue Typing - Cardiac
Transplantion Work-up
yellow - no gel,
golden (ACD)
and purple
Contact
Laboratory
To reach the laboratory within 24-
48 hours. At least 5ml clotted
blood with gel and 5ml in golden
tube (ACD). At least 10ml purple
EDTA blood
Tissue Immuno
Tissue Typing - Renal
Transplantion Work-up
golden (ACD),
yellow gel and
purple
Contact
Laboratory
To reach the laboratory within 24-
48 hours. At least 5ml clotted
blood with gel and 5ml in golden
tube (ACD). At least 10ml purple
EDTA blood
Tissue Immuno
Tissue Typing - Bone Marrow
Transplantion Work-up
golden (ACD),
yellow gel and
purple
Contact
Laboratory
To reach the laboratory within 24-
48 hours. At least 5ml clotted
blood with gel and 5ml in golden
tube (ACD). At least 30ml purple
EDTA blood
Tissue Immuno
Total IgE yellow gel
Lipaemic, haemolysed or
microbially contaminated
samples are unsuitable.
Immuno
Thyroid stimulating hormone TSH yellow gelyellow gel or
green
Separate serum and
send on iceChem
GPL2952 v5
TORCH screenyellow gel (if
applicable)
yellow gel (if
applicable)
For patients under 1 year,
Toxoplasma IgG/IgM, rubella
IgM, and CMV IgM will be done.
TORCH screen requests for
patients over the age of 1 year
will be rejected. Please specify
viruses to be tested. Consult
pathologist for recommended
specimen types.
Viro
Total protein yellow gel green Chem
Total protein, CSF plain tube plain tube Chem
Total protein, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Toxocara ELISA Toxocara serology yellow gelTest performed at Immunology
laboratory, Braamfontein, Jhb.Micro
Toxoplasma ELISA Toxoplasma serology yellow gel Virology, GSH Viro
Toxoplasma gondii IgG yellow
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
Toxoplasma gondii IgM yellow
Please send a full tube for viral
serology. In case of TORCH
screen, please consult a
virologist for appropriate test, or
specify viruses to be tested.
Viro
Toxoplasma gondii PCR, amniotic
fluidamniotic fluid
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Toxoplasma gondii PCR, aspirate aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Toxoplasma gondii PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
TPMT (Thiopurine S-
Methyltransferase deficiency)
genotyping
Risk for thiopurine /
azathioprine side effectspurple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Total protein, urinerandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urineChem
TransferrinTotal iron binding capacity;
TIBCyellow gel yellow gel Chem
GPL2952 v5
Triglyceride TRIG yellow gel yellow gel Fasting blood. Chem
Trypanosomes Sleeping sickness purple Fresh sample. CSF and bloodN/A - must be done
onsiteHaem
Tryptase, mast cell
Measurement of total
serum tryptase levels has
replaced the Methyl Urine
Histamine assay for the
diagnosis of Systemic
Mastocytosis.
yellow gel
Recommended procedure for
possible allergic reactions: 3
serial Tryptase tests: 1st sample
at 1-2 hours post event, then 2-3
hours later and a baseline
sample >14 hours post event.
Recommended
procedure for possible
allergic reactions: 3 serial
Tryptase tests: 1st
sample at 1-2 hours post
event, then 2-3 hours
later and a baseline
sample >14 hours post
event.
Immuno
TTG Ab (IgA)Tissue transglutaminase
IgA Ab; Coeliac diseaseyellow gel
N.B. Patient must include gluten
in diet to avoid false negative
results. Plasma samples
CANNOT be used. Lipaemic,
haemolysed or microbially
contaminated samples are
unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
TTG Ab (IgG)Tissue transglutaminase
IgG Ab; Coeliac diseaseyellow gel
N.B. Patient must include gluten
in diet to avoid false negative
results. Plasma samples
CANNOT be used. Lipaemic,
haemolysed or microbially
contaminated samples are
unsuitable.
Only submit clotted
sample, as Plasma
samples CANNOT be
used.
Immuno
Tuberculosis cultureMycobacterial culture;
Culture (mycobacterial)
Sample from
infected site.
TB blood
culture bottles
are available on
request from
the
microbiology
laboratory.
For respiratory samples TB
culture is 2nd-line diagnostic test.
For extra-pulmonary samples TB
microscopy and culture will be
performed if GenexpertMTB/Rif is
not requested/is inappropriate.
Please note that tissue or pus
aspirates are superior to pus
swabs for TB culture.
Micro
GPL2952 v5
Tuberculosis microscopyMycobacterial microscopy;
Microscopy (tuberculosis)
Sample from
infected site
According to national guidelines
GeneXpert MTB/Rif is the first-
line diagnostic test on respiratory
samples, but TB microscopy will
be performed on the 2nd sample
submitted, to determine smear
status and to allow for future
monitoring of response to
therapy. TB microscopy and
culture will be performed on extra-
pulmonary samples if
GenexpertMTB/Rif is not
requested.
Micro
Twinkle (c10ORF2) whole gene
sequencingc10ORF2; mtDNA depletion purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
Typhoid Culture for Typhoid
Blood culture,
bone marrow,
stool or urine
Micro
Unstable Hb purple purple Sample must be < 24 hours oldSample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
Troponin T (high sensitivity) hsTrop T green green Chem
Urea yellow gel green Chem
Urea, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Urea, urinerandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urineChem
Uric acid Urate yellow gel green Chem
Uric acid, fluid plain tube plain tube Chem
Uric acid, urinerandom or
timed urine
random or
timed urine
Urine must be alkalinised (urine
pH > 7)Chem
Urine culture MSU culture; Culture (urine) screw-top tube
Collect a mid-stream specimen
from a properly prepared patient.
For patients who are
catheterised, collect urine from
port above the clamped catheter
and NOT from the drainage bag
Send at 2-4°C. Please
indicate how sample was
taken as this does affect
specimen processing.
Micro
GPL2952 v5
Urine microscopyMSU microscopy;
Microscopy (urine)screw-top tube
Collect a mid-stream specimen
from a properly prepared patient.
For patients who are
catheterised, collect urine from
port above the clamped catheter
and NOT from the drainage bag
Micro
Urinalysis Urine dipstix random urine random urineDeliver immediately to lab on ice
within 4 hours.Chem
Varicella-Zoster IgG yellow gelPlease send a full tube for viral
serology.Viro
Varicella-Zoster IgM N/A
No longer available. Request
PCR for acute infection or IgG to
establish past infection or
seroconversion.
Viro
Varicella-Zoster PCR, aspirate aspirateSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Varicella-Zoster PCR, biopsy
materialbiopsy in saline
Never in formalin for virological
testing
Send at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Varicella-Zoster PCR, CSF CSFSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
Varicella-Zoster PCR, swab swabSend at 4 degrees, do
not freezeViro
VDRL, CSF Syphilis serology (VDRL) CSF
VDRL is the recommended non-
treponemal serological test for
CSF.
Micro
Vancomycin yellow gel greenGSH specimens to be sent
directly to Pharmacology
For GSH or UCTPAH
patients only. Not offered
here for any other
patients.
Chem
Very long chain fatty acids Adrenoleukodystrophy yellow gel green Deliver to lab immediately.Discuss with chemical
pathology registrarChem
Vitamin A yellow gel purpleSample must be wrapped in tin
foil or black paperNot offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Vitamin B1 Thiamine purple purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Vitamin B12 Cobalamin yellow gel yellow gel Chem
Vitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxy Calcitriol yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab immediately. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Vitamin D, 25 hydroxy yellow gel yellow gel Deliver to lab immediately. Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
GPL2952 v5
Von Willebrands FactorVWF; Factor VIII related
antigenblue blue
Arrange with haematologist or
registrar on call. Fresh sample.
10ml blood required
Frozen citrated plasma -
kept on dry iceHaem
White cell countWCC; WBC; Leukocyte
countpurple purple Sample must be < 24 hours old
Sample must be < 24
hours oldHaem
WidalTyphoid serology;
Salmonella serologyyellow gel
The diagnosis of typhoid fever is
best made by culture of blood,
bone marrow, stool or urine.
Serological tests are imprecise
and difficult to interpret.
Available Monday-Friday. Daily
batches assayed. (Test
performed at TBH Immunology)
Micro
X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy
(ABCD1 gene) whole gene screenXALD purple
Do NOT freeze. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Send with cold block in
cold box. Must reach lab
within 5 days.
Chem IMD
X-linked mental retardation
(XLMR) screen (non-syndromic)
RPS6KA3, ARX,
IL1RAPL1, TSPAN7,
PQBP1, HUWE1, OPHN1,
ACSL4, PAK3, DCX,
AGTR2, ARHGEF6, FMR1,
AFF2 (FMR2), SLC6A8 and
GDI1 (MLPA)
purple or
amniotic fluid2 to 8 °C (Do not Freeze).
To be transported cooled
but NOT FROZEN.
Should reach the
laboratory within 3 days.
Genetics (molec)
Vitamin E yellow gel purple Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
Yersinia serology yellow gel
Available Monday-Friday. Daily
batches assayed. (Test
performed at TBH immunology)
Micro
Zinc Zn
trace metal
(royal blue)
tube
trace metal
(royal blue)
tube
Not offered at GSH/RxH Chem
GPL2952 v5