Laboratory Test Preparation

Test

Blood DNA Extraction (For Candle Study Trial)

Other Test Request Name

Blood DNA Extraction

Test Composition

N/A

Intended Use

For use in the study of genetic causes of diseases and for the develeopment of diagnostics and drugs. It is also essential for carrying out forensic science and sequencing genomes.

Methodology

DNA Purification (Salting out) using Qiagen Midi Kit

Laboratory Section

Molecular Diagnostics Section

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation

Collection/Sample Container

EDTA or Violet tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

 

 

 

 

2 mL Whole Blood

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

N/A

 

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

N/A

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

12 hours

 

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

Storage at - 20ºC : 30 days

Storage at - 80ºC : 3 months

Transport Temperature

Transport specimen at 2ºC - 8ºC (with cold packs)

Rejection Criteria

  • Improperly labeled specimen
  • Clotted Specimen
  • Overfilled/underfilled tube
  • Specimen stored and transported outside the required temperature

Running Day

Batch running of samples

Cut Off Time

Friday 8:00 am

TAT/Releasing of Results

For storage of DNA samples for analysis atUP PGC (Philippine Genomic Center)

96 samples/AD plate

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

N/A

Limitations/Interferences

Introduction of nucleases to DNA solutions should be avoided as these enzymes will degrade DNA. Genomic DNA consist of very large DNA molecules, which are fragile and can break easily. To ensure the integrity of genomic DNA, excessive and rough pipetting and vortexing should be avoided.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

N/A

Related Words/Test

Genomic DNA extraction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

Blood Typing & Rh Typing

Other Test Request Name

•BT
•ABO
•ABORH

•ABO Group and Rh Type

•Blood group

•Rh Factor

Test Composition

•ABO Typing

•Rh Typing

Intended Use

To establish blood group according to the ABO and Rh system

Methodology

Direct & Reverse Method: Column Agglutination Technique

Laboratory Section

Serology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container

EDTA (purple top)

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

1.5-2mL EDTA whole blood

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

Not Specified

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

Unacceptable

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

• Improperly labeled specimen
• Insufficient volume of specimen
• Clotted specimen
• Exceeded sample stability requirement

Running Day

Daily

Cut Off Time

Monday to Saturday
• 8:00 PM

Sunday
• 3:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

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

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Not applicable

Limitations/Interferences

None identified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test

Blood Group; Rh Factor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

Bone Alkaline Phosphatase

Other Test Request Name

  • Bone Specific Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes
  • Bone ALPs
  • B-ALP
  • B-AP
  • Bone-specific alkaline phosphatase
  • Ostase

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

Evaluate contribution of liver, bone, placental and regan isoenzymes to total alkaline phosphatase.

A marker for bone remodeling. Increases in osteitis deformans, hyperparathyroidism and chronic renal insufficiency using this enzyme specific procedure.

Methodology

Chemiluminescence

Laboratory Section

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container

Gold or Red Top

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

7 Days

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

14 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

Not applicable

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

• Hemolyzed specimen
• Quantity Not sufficient
• Markedly lipemic sample
• Improperly labeled specimen

Running Day

Batch running

Cut Off Time

Friday 4:00 PM

 

 

 

TAT/Releasing of Results

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

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences

None specified

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Not applicable

Related Words/Test

Osteoporosis , Paget disease

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

Bone Marrow Smear

Other Test Request Name

• Bma Smear
• Bma Smear Reading

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

It is performed to establish the etiology of blood disorders such as neoplasm or infection that has spread to the bone marrow.

Methodology

Direct Microscopic Examination (Wright-Geimsa stain)

Laboratory Section

Hematology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

• No patient preparation necessary.
• Sample collection is done by authorized physician only.

Collection/Sample Container

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

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

4-6 Smears fixed with methanol

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not applicable

 

 

 

 

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

Not applicable

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

Not applicable

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

Unacceptable

Transport Temperature

Transport specimen at 15-25°C (room temperature) immediately after collection.

Rejection Criteria

• Unlabelled or mislabeled samples

Running Day

Daily

Cut Off Time

Monday to Saturday
• 6:00 PM

Sunday
• 3:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

3 days upon receipt of specimen

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Not applicable

Limitations/Interferences

None specified

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not applicable

Related Words/Test

Complete Blood Count (CBC), White Blood Cell (WBC) Differential, Reticulocytes, Blood Smear, Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, Platelet Count, White Blood Cell Count (WBC), Red Blood Cell Count (RBC), JAK2 Mutation, BCR-ABL1,PML-RARA, Chromosome Analysis (Karyotyping), T-Cell Receptor Gene Rearrangement, B-cell Immunoglobulin Gene Rearrangement, Immunophenotyping, Anemia, Leukemia, Bone Marrow Disorders, Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, Myelodysplastic Syndrome, Sickle Cell Anemia, Thalassemia, Vitamin B12 and Folate Deficiencies, Hemoglobin Abnormalities,Bleeding Disorders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

Bone Screening

Other Test Request Name

  • Ultrasound Bone Densitometer
  • Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS)

Test Composition

-

Intended Use

Bone Densitometry is used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) that predicts the risk of developing a fracture or determines if a patient has osteoporosis, a condition that causes the bones to become weak and brittle.

There are different techniques used to measure bone mineral density and Ultrasound Bone Densitomer or Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) is one of the them. It uses a portable device that measures the bone mineral density at the calcaneus (heel bone). If the result indicates that the patient is likely to have osteoporosis, the doctor may recommend a Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry or DEXA to confirm the diagnosis.

The following are potential risk factors for osteoporosis:

  • Women
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Low body weight or thin body stature
  • Cigarette smoking or alcohol consumption
  • Excessive caffeine consumption
  • Use of corticosteroid therapy for more than three months
  • Lifelong low calcium intake
  • Hormone deficiency
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Methodology

Laboratory Section

IMAGING DEPARTMENT

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

BRANCH & SCHEDULE

HPD Del Monte

Walk In - First-come, first-served

  • Monday to Saturday - 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Sunday - 8:00 AM to 12:00 NN

NOTE:Please note that schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

PREPARATION

  • Avoid taking calcium supplements 24 hours before the exam.

Collection/Sample Container

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

-

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

-

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

Transport Temperature

Rejection Criteria

Running Day

Cut Off Time

TAT/Releasing of Results

30 minutes to 1 hour after the procedure

 

 

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Limitations/Interferences

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How is Bone Screening performed?

  • The foot is placed on the device for a few seconds until the machine obtains a reading.

What is the difference between Quantitave Ultrasound and DEXA?

  • The Quantitative Ultrasound is a screening tool for early detection of osteoporosis, whereas, Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry is a diagnostic tool, often considered as a gold standard test, to most accurately assess BMD and monitor the response to treatment for osteoporosis.

What is the difference between a Bone Densitometry and Bone Scan?

  • Do not mistake Bone Densitometry with Bone Scan. Bone Scan is a nuclear medicine test that requires a radioactive substance to be injected through the veins to detect tumors, cancer, fractures, or infection in the bone.

Related Words/Test

Not Applicable

 

 

 

Test

Bordetella Pertussis IgG

Other Test Request Name

  • Bordatella Pertusis Toxin (PT) Antibody, IgG, Immunosay
  • Pertussis Tests
  • Whooping Cough Pertussis Tests

Test Composition

Not Applicable

Intended Use

A respiratory tract infection due to Bordetella pertussis which results in a characteristic cough (whence the popular name for the condition "whooping cough")

Pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, is a respiratory infection caused by the bacteriaBordetella pertussis. These bacteria are highly contagious and are passed from person to person through coughing and sneezing and close contact. Whooping cough tests are performed to detect and diagnose infection withB. pertussis.

Methodology

Immunoassay (IA)

Laboratory Section

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container

Red or Gold Top

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

24 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

28 Days

Transport Temperature

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

 

 

 

Rejection Criteria

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

Running Day

Batch running

Cut Off Time

Monday, 12:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

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

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences

None Specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why get tested?

A:To detect and diagnose infection withBordetella pertussis, which causes pertussis, also known as whooping cough

Q: When to get tested?

A:When you have ongoing spasms or fits of coughing (paroxysms) that your healthcare practitioner suspects are due to whooping cough (pertussis) and when you have symptoms of a cold and have been exposed to someone with whooping cough

Q: When are they ordered?

A:Whooping cough tests may be ordered when you have signs and symptoms that suggest a pertussis infection. Your healthcare practitioner may have a strong suspicion that you have whooping cough if:

  • You have the classic "whoop,"
  • You have cold symptoms and have been in close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with whooping cough
  • There is a known whooping cough outbreak in the community

Testing should not be performed on close contacts who do not have symptoms.

Q: How is a whooping cough treated?

A:Whooping cough is treated with antibiotics, which will help to resolve the infection and help stop spread of the disease. Close contacts of people diagnosed with whooping cough may also be treated to prevent spread of the infection.

Q: When is the pertussive vaccine given?
 
A:Three different formulations of the pertussis vaccine are available, typically in combination with the tetanus and diphtheria vaccines (DPT). The vaccination is given to infants as a series of shots. Children who have not completed the series of vaccinations are at a higher risk of becoming infected. Even some people who have been vaccinated may still be infected byB. pertussis, but they tend to have a less severe illness.

Pregnant women are advised to be re-vaccinated to prevent transmission of pertussis to their newborns. Grandparents and other caretakers who will be spending time with a newborn are also advised to be re-vaccinated.

Related Words/Test

Whooping Cough Tests, Bordetella pertussis Culture; Bordetella pertussis by PCR; Bordetella pertussis Antibodies (IgA, IgG, IgM), Gram-negative, aerobic, pathogenic, encapsulated coccobacillus, Respiratory Pathogens Panel, Re.spiratory Synctial Virus (RSV) Testing, Influenza Tests.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

Borrelia IgG & IgM (EIA)

Other Test Request Name

  • Lyme disease
  • Borrelia
  • burgdorferi
  • Lyme

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

Borrelia burgdorferi is a bacterium which is transmitted to humans from wild mammal reservoir hosts via the bite of infected ticks. The primary phase of Lyme borreliosis lasts between 10 and 20 days and is characterized by erythema migrans which spontaneously resolves. Sometime later (the period varies enormously), infected patients can present with cardiac symptoms and/or neurological complications and/or rheumatism, a complex syndrome which can be very difficult to diagnose.

Methodology

Chemiluminescence

Laboratory Section

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.

NOTE:In case of positive or borderline screening result, the confirmation test is automatically performed

Collection/Sample Container

Gold or Red Top

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

7 Days

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

14 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

28 Days

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

• Hemolyzed specimen
• Quantity Not sufficient
• Markedly lipemic sample
• Improperly labeled specimen

Running Day

Batch running

Cut Off Time

Friday, 4:00 PM

 

 

 

 

 

 

TAT/Releasing of Results

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

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences

Testing for Lyme borreliosis poses problems. It is often impossible to isolate the bacterium itself although bacterial DNA can sometimes be detected in CSF or synovial fluid. Specific IgG and IgM can be assayed although serological results obtained for the CSF should always be compared with those for serum assayed at the same time. Antibodies appear 3 to 6 weeks after initial infection and can persist long after cure. Non-specific reactions can occur. For confirmation, Western blotting is specific but sometimes lacks sensitivity

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not applicable

Related Words/Test

Lyme Antibodies Detection; Lyme Antibodies IgM/IgG by Western Blot, Borrelia Antibodies, IgM/IgG; Borrelia DNA Detection by PCR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

Borrelia IgG(WesternBlot)

Other Test Request Name

  • Lyme Antibodies detection
  • Borreliosis - IgG Confirmation Serology
  • Lyme disease
  • Lyme
  • Borrelia
  • Borrelia burgdorferi Infection
  • Borrelia mayonii Infection
  • Burgdorferi
  • Lyme disease
  • Lyme
  • Borrelia
  • burgdorferi

Test Composition

Not Applicable

Intended Use

Used to determine if a person with characteristic signs and symptoms has been infected by the bacteria borellia burgdorferi or borellia mayonii

IgG (immunoglobulin G) antibodies are not detectable until several weeks after exposure, increase to maximum levels at about four to six months, and may remain at high levels for several years.

Lyme disease is an infection caused by the bacteriaBorrelia burgdorferiandBorrelia mayonii.The infection is primarily spread to humans by bites from infected deer ticks, also known as black-legged ticks. People bitten by an infected tick may develop an inflammatory condition, which first affects the skin and then may spread to the joints, nervous system, and other parts of the body.

Methodology

Westernblot

Laboratory Section

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container

Red or Gold Top (Serum)

 Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

2 mL Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) in a sterile leak proof container

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

24 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

28 Days

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

  • Hemolyzed specimen
  • Quantity Not sufficient
  • Markedly lipemic sample
  • Improperly labeled specimen

Running Day

Batch running

Cut Off Time

Friday, 4:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

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

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences

None specified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the signs and symptoms of having Lyme Disease?

A: Lyme disease occurs in stages, with the early infection confined to the area around the tick bite and progressing to early disseminated and then to late Lyme disease.

Early signs and symptoms can develop from 3 to 30 days after the tick bite and may include:

  • Characteristic rash at the site of the tick bite: one of first symptoms is usually a rash that appears a few days to a month after the bite (the average is about 7 days). About 70% to 80% of people infected withBorrelia burgdorferiwill develop the characteristic circular rash callederythema migrans. It typically spreads outward from the bite site and may eventually measure up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) or more across. It may resemble a "bulls-eye" and may feel warm to the touch but usually is not painful or itchy. Some people may develop multiple red rashes and others may not have, or remember having, a rash. Note that it is common to see a small bump or redness that develops soon after a tick bite that may look like a mosquito bite. However, this bump or redness generally goes away in one or two days and is not a sign of Lyme disease. (See Related Images for examples of erythema migrans.)
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Fever and chills
  • Muscle and joint aches
  • Swollen lymph nodes
Borrelia mayoniiseems to produce other symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, and may cause a rash that is more spread out (diffuse) and lacks the bull's eye target appearance.

If Lyme disease is left untreated, additional signs and symptoms may develop several days to months after a tick bite, including:

  • Muscle and joint pain (may be intermittent)
  • Facial weakness and paralysis (Bell's palsy)
  • Numbness and pain in arms and legs
  • Neck stiffness and severe headaches (meningitis)
  • Chest pain and irregular heart beat (rare)
  • Eye irritation, redness, pain, and blurred vision (rare)
  • Intermittent arthritis with joint pain and swelling, especially in larger joints like the knees
  • Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep patterns
  • Spells of dizziness or shortness of breath
  • Shooting pains, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet
  • Inflammation of the brain and/or spinal cord

Q: What are the treatment for this?

A:Lyme disease is usually treated with antibiotics taken by mouth for 2-4 weeks. Some people with severe infections may require antibiotics administered through a vein (intravenous) In most cases, those with Lyme disease recover rapidly and completely. In some cases, especially with late-stage Lyme disease, some joint pain and nerve damage may persist.

Q: What can we do to prevent this?

A:Currently, there is novaccineavailable to prevent Lyme disease, but standard precautions to avoid exposure to ticks and tick bites can greatly reduce the risk of becoming infected. These include:

  • Wearing light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Tucking pant legs into socks
  • Wearing closed shoes
  • Avoiding wooded and grassy areas, especially in spring and early summer, walking in the center of trails
  • Using a tick repellant that contains 20-30% DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) or permethrin
  • Checking for ticks after spending time outside
  • Removing ticks as soon as they are found
  • Pets should also be routinely checked for ticks.
Related Words/Test
Lyme Antibodies Detection; Lyme Antibodies IgM/IgG by Western Blot, Borrelia Antibodies, IgM/IgG; Borrelia DNA Detection by PCR, Lyme Disease Tests

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

CA 125 (Ovaria CA) ECLIA

Other Test Request Name

  • Carbohydrate Antigen 125
  • Cancer Antigen 125
  • CA 125 Tumor Marker
  • CA-125

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

Aids in the detection of residual or recurrent ovarian carcinoma in patients who have undergone first-line therapy and would be considered for second-look procedures.
- Serial measurement of CA 125 aids in the management of cancer patients.
- Used in conjunction with the Elecsys HE4 assay as part of ROMA (Risk Of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm) for the risk assessment of ovarian cancer in premenopausal and postmenopausal women presenting with pelvic mass.

Methodology

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Laboratory Section

Immunology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.
•Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.

Collection/Sample Container

Red or Gold tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation

1-3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

1-3 ml Plasma (Li-heparin, K2-, K3-EDTA)

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

8 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

5 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

24 Weeks

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

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

Running Day

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Cut Off Time

Monday to Saturday:10:00 PM

Sunday:6:00PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

ROUTINE (on running days)
• 4 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger
STAT (on running days only)
• 2½ hours from extraction/messenger arrival

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

0.00-35.00 U/mL

Limitations/Interferences

• Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.
• In rare cases, interference due to extremely high titers of antibodies to analyte-specific antibodies, streptavidin or ruthenium can occur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not applicable

Related Words/Test

Tumor Markers, BRCA-1 and BRCA-2, Human Epididymis Protein 4 (HE4)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

CA 15-3 (Breast CA) ECLIA

Other Test Request Name

• Carbohydrate Antigen 15-3
• Cancer Antigen 15-3
• MUC1
• Polymorphic Epithelial Mucin
• CA-Breast
• Cancer Antigen-Breast

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

- Aid in the management of breast cancer patients.
- In conjunction with other clinical and diagnostic procedures, serial testing with this assay is an aid in the early detection of recurrence in previously treated stage II and III breast cancer patients and for monitoring response to therapy in metastatic breast cancer patients.

Methodology

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Laboratory Section

Immunology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.

 

 

 

Collection/Sample Container

Red or Gold tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

1-3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

1-3 mL Plasma (Li-heparin, K2-EDTA and K3-EDTA)

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

48 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

5 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

90 Days (Freeze only once)

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

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

Running Day

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Cut Off Time

Monday to Saturday:10:00 PM

Sunday:6:00PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

ROUTINE (on running days)
• 4 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger
STAT (on running days only)
• 2½ hours from extraction/messenger arrival

 

 

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

0.00-25.00 U/mL

Limitations/Interferences

Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not applicable

Related Words/Test

CA 27.29, Tumor Markers, CEA, Her-/Neu, Estrogen/ Progesterone Receptor Status, Gene Expression Tests for Breast Cancer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

CA 19-9 (ECLIA)

Other Test Request Name

•Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9
• Cancer Antigen-GI
• CA-GI
• Cancer Antigen 19-9

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

CA 19-9 can assist in the differential diagnosis and monitoring of patients with pancreatic carcinoma

Methodology

 

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Laboratory Section

Immunology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.
•Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.

Collection/Sample Container

Red or Gold tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

1-3mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

1-3 mL Plasma (Li-, Na-, Ammonium heparin and K3-EDTA)

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

Not specified

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

30 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

3 months

Transport Temperature

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rejection Criteria

Hemolyzed specimen
• Markedly lipemic specimen
• Exceeded sample stability requirement
• Quantity not sufficient
• Improperly labeled specimen
• Improper collection tube used
• Plasma samples from Na-Citrate tube.

Running Day

Monday, Wednesday, Friday

Cut Off Time

Monday to Saturday:10:00 PM

Sunday:6:00PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

ROUTINE (on running days)
• 4 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger
STAT (on running days only)
• 2½ hours from extraction/messenger arrival

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

0.00-39.00 U/mL

Limitations/Interferences

•The determination of CA 19-9 cannot be used for the early detection of pancreatic carcinoma.
•Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not applicable

Related Words/Test

Bilirubin, Carcinoembryonic Antigen, Liver Panel, Tumor Markers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

CA 27-29

Other Test Request Name

  • Carbohydrate Antigen 27.29
  • Breast Carcinoma Associated Mucin Antigen
  • Cancer Associated Breast Antigen (CABA)
  • Cancer Antigen 27.29
  • CA 27.29

Test Composition

Not Applicable

Intended Use

CA 27.29 may be useful for monitoring patients for metastatic breast cancer.

Methodology

Immunoassay (IA)

Laboratory Section

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

No patient preparation necessary.

Collection/Sample Container

Red or Gold Tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not Applicable

 

 

 

 

 

 

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

24 Hours

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

7 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

28 Days

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

  • Hemolyzed specimen
  • Quantity Not sufficient
  • Markedly lipemic sample
  • •mproperly labeled specimen

Running Day

Batch running

Cut Off Time

Monday, 12:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

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

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Available upon request

Limitations/Interferences

CA 27.29 is not intended as a screening test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not Applicable

Related Words/Test

Breast cancer, CA15-3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

CA 72-4 (GI CA) ECLIA

Other Test Request Name

  • Cancer Antigen 72-4
  • Carbohydrate Antigen 72-4
  • TAG 72
  • Tumor associated Glycoprotein 72

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

The assay in particular serves as an aid in the therapeutic monitoring of carcinomas of the stomach and ovaries.

Methodology

Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Laboratory Section

Immunology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.

Collection/Sample Container

Red or Gold tube

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

1-3 mL Serum

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

1-3 mL Plasma (Li-heparin, K2-EDTA and K3-EDTA)

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

24 Hours

 

 

 

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

30 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

90 Days (Freeze only once)

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

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

 

Running Day

Batch Running (7 Days TAT)

Cut Off Time

07:00 pm

TAT/Releasing of Results

ROUTINE (on running days)
• 4 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger
STAT (on running days only)
• 2½ hours from extraction/messenger arrival

 

 

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

0.00-6.90 U/mL

Limitations/Interferences

• Samples should not be taken from patients receiving therapy with high biotin doses (i.e. > 5 mg/day) until at least 8 hours following the last biotin administration.
• In rare cases, interference due to extremely high titers of antibodies to analyte-specific antibodies, streptavidin or ruthenium can occur.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not applicable

Related Words/Test

Tumor Markers, CEA, Gastric CA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

Cadmium (ICP-MS) (UNAVAILABILITY OF TUBE)

Other Test Request Name

  • Cadmium
  • Blood Cadmium
  • Blood Cd
  • Cd

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

Used in a range of different industries - welding, paint and varnish making and fertilizers (super phosphates). Cadmium can cause adverse reactions in people exposed in the course of their work including respiratory, gastrointestinal, hematological and renal problems.

Cadmium is a naturally occurring element that is mined and used in industrial production because of its durability. Excessive cadmium exposure can damage lungs, kidneys, and the digestive tract.

Methodology

Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry (ICP/MS)

Laboratory Section

Special Test

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

  • No patiet preparation.
  • Phlebotomist should wear powderless gloves.
  • Request Container to Special test section atleast 2 days prior to collection

Instruction to Phlebotomists:Specimen Collection and  Handling

  1. Wash the collection site with soap and water, followed by an alcohol swab.
  2. Collect the trace metal tube last if other tubes are to be collected from the same site.
  3. Label the complete name of patient on the EDTA Royal blue tube upon extraction.       
  4. After blood extraction, invert EDTA Royal Blue tube 8-10 times to prevent clotting.
  5. Verify and record the name, date of birth, age, gender and employment history of each patient in the Clinical Information.
  6. Note if the patient is pregnant.
  7. After blood collection, do not open specimen tubes at any time prior to shipment. Do not use iodine-containing disinfectants.

 

Collection/Sample Container

6 mL Royal Blue Tube (Whole Blood) - EDTA

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

2 pcs. of 6mL Royal Tube (Whole Blood) - EDTA

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not Applicable

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

14 days

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

14 Days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

14 Days

Transport Temperature

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

Rejection Criteria

  • Clotted sample
  • Incorrect sample
  • Insufficient volume or number of tubes
  • Incorrect storage temperature of specimen
  • Exceeded sample stability requirement
  • Improperly labeled specimens

Running Day

Batch Running

Cut Off Time

Monday, 12:00 PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

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

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

Available upon request.

Limitations/Interferences

Not Applicable

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Not applicable

Related Words/Test

Heavy Metal Poisoning

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test

CALAS (CSF)

Other Test Request Name

  • Cryptococcal Antigen Latex Agglutination System (CSF)
  • Cryptococcal Antigen CSF

Test Composition

Not applicable

Intended Use

Detection of capsular antigens of Cryptococcus neoformans in Cerebrospinal fluid

Methodology

Latex agglutination

Laboratory Section

Bacteriology

Special Instructions/Patient Preparations

DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENT:

Microbiology Request form (completely filled out)

SAMPLE COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS(Clinicians):

  1. Collect sample aseptically by lumbar puncture.
  2. Sequentially collect CSF into minimum of 3 sterile tube or container (depends on tests).
  3. Tube/vial no. 2will be submitted for Bacteriology.
  4. Label with Complete information on tube/vial.
  5. Submit to laboratory immediately

Note:

  1. Check the information before sending to HP Del Monte Laboratory.
  2. Specimens in leaky containers will be processed, but notify physician of possibility of contamination

Collection/Sample Container

Sterile leak proof container

Specimen and Volume Requirement
Note:Follow tube manufacturer recommendation.

3 mL Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

Alternative Specimen and Volume Requirement

Not applicable

Specimen Stability

•   Room Temperature (15-25°C)

Not applicable

•   Refrigerated Temperature (2-8°C)

3 days

•   Freezer Temperature (-20°C)

Not applicable

 

Transport Temperature

Place CSF sample in sterile container and store at refrigerated temperature (with cold ice packs).

Rejection Criteria

  • Improperly collected CSF and/or Serum sample
  • Quantity not sufficient
  • Improperly labeled specimens
  • Contaminated sample
  • Improper collection container

Running Day

Daily

Cut Off Time

8:00  PM

TAT/Releasing of Results

ROUTINE:

6 hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger

STAT:

2  hours after receipt of specimen/ arrival of messenger

Reference Interval/Result Interpretation

NEGATIVE

-         Negative  for Cryptococcus neoformans capsular antigen

POSITIVE

-         Positive  for Cryptococcus neoformans capsular antigen

Limitations/Interferences

  • A negative CALAS test does not preclude diagnosis of cryptococcosis, particularly of only single specimen has been tested and the patient shows symptoms consistent with Cryptococcus.

  • Although the presence of nonspecific interference can invalidate the CALAS test results, this does not exclude the possibility of cyptococcal infection since cryptococcosis can occur concomitantly with other conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is CALAS?

A: TheCryptococcal Antigen Latex Agglutination System is a qualitative test for the detection of capsular polysaccharide antigens of Cryptococcus neoformans.

Q: When would I want this test?:

A:When there is a suspected cryptococcosis infection

Q: What will it tell me?

A:Presence of Cryptococcal antigen in the CSF and/or Serum indicates active disease.

Q: Why perform CALAS testing?

A:A simple, sensitive latex test capable of detecting the capsular antigen of Cryptococcus neoformans in CSF and Serum was proven to be superior in sensitivity to the India Ink mount. Clinical studies established the prognostic value of the test and showed it to be a valuable aid in establishing a diagnosis when the culture was negative.

Q: What is CALAS?

A: TheCryptococcal Antigen Latex Agglutination System is a qualitative test for the detection of capsular polysaccharide antigens of Cryptococcus neoformans.

Q: When would I want this test?:

A:When there is a suspected cryptococcosis infection

Q: What will it tell me?

A:Presence of Cryptococcal antigen in the CSF and/or Serum indicates active disease.

Q: Why perform CALAS testing?

A:A simple, sensitive latex test capable of detecting the capsular antigen of Cryptococcus neoformans in CSF and Serum was proven to be superior in sensitivity to the India Ink mount. Clinical studies established the prognostic value of the test and showed it to be a valuable aid in establishing a diagnosis when the culture was negative.

 

 

 

 

 

Related Words/Test

Fungal pathogen to infect the central nervous system