Pathology Test List

Below is a list of Pathology tests available, in alphabetical order. For further details please see individual
department test lists.
 Pathology Test List
Dept Name BD Reference range Maximum Notes
Vacutainer TAT
(Working
days or
weeks)
Immuno Acetyl Choline E pos/neg and This assay is
Receptor Antibody interpretative 21 days referred to
(AChR) comment given Immunology
Laboratory,
Oxford University
Hospital
Biochem ACTH Unstable
(adrenocorticotrophic hormone; blood
hormone) must arrive in
0 -40ug/L laboratory with
Interpret with cortisol 15 minutes.
results from sample 14-21 days Notify
taken simultaneously Department in
(gold tube) advance.
Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Haem Activated Protein C > 120 seconds 14 days Contact
Resistance Consultant
Haematologist (
part of
thrombophilia
screen)
Biochem Acylcarnitine Guthrie card Referral Test to
Biochemical
Bloodspot free Genetics Unit
carnitine 10.3 - 54.7 14-21 days Pathology
umol/L. Individual Sciences
interpretation Building
provided on report. Southmead
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Biochemical Genetics
Unit Pathology
Sciences Building
Southmead Hospital
Micro Adenovirus Antibody 5 days Adequate clinical
Screen information must
be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
 14 days into
illness).
Micro Adenovirus PCR 5 days

Immuno Adrenal Gland POS/NEG This assay is

Antibody 14-21 days referred to the
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield
Biochem AFP Adults (19yr+) 1-7 24 hours Caliper study
(alpha-fetoprotein) kiU/L values for
children and
*see Patient report expected values
for specific age from kit insert for
related ranges. adults

Used in
monitoring
patients with
non-
seminomatous
germ cell
tumours and in
screening and
diagnosis of
hepatocellular
carcinoma
Immuno Alpha-3-Ganglionic POS/NEG with 21 days This assay is
ACHR antibodies values as free text referred to
(A3ACR) comment Immunology
Laboratory,
Oxford University
Hospital
Biochem Albumin Adult 35-50 g/L *see 24 hours Source of range
Patient report for – Pathology Harmony
specific age related reference intervals
ranges.
Biochem Albumin: Universal early F < 3.5, M <2.5 24 hours It is not
Creatinine Ratio am mg/mmol appropriate to
perform this test
on a urine which
tests positive for
protein using a
"dipstick"
Biochem Alcohol (ethanol) Units mg/dL 24 hours UK Legal driving
NB UK legal driving limit limit for blood
80mg/100mL (17.4
mmol/L)
ethanol is 80
mg/100ml
Serum Ethanol:
To convert
mg/100ml to
mmol/L = x 0.216
Biochem Aldosterone Measure with
Units: pmol/L renin to
*See patient report determine
for specific gender & renin:aldosterone
age related ranges ratio.
Unstable
14- 21 days hormone; blood
must arrive in
laboratory with
 30 minutes.
Notify
Department in
advance.
Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital

Biochem Aldosterone:Renin Ald:Ren ratio Unstable

< 91 pmol/mIU 14- 21 days hormone; blood
effectively excludes must arrive in
Conns. laboratory with
30 minutes.
Notify
Department in
advance.

Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.

Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem ALP (alkaline age related (may be 24 hours Age-related
phosphatase) over 300U/L in reference ranges
infants and children) quoted on report
forms. Higher in
children and in
the third trimester
of pregnancy.

Source of range
– Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem ALP Isoenzymes Interpretative 28 days Contact Duty
comment given Biochemist.
Referred Test.
Immunmo Alpha-Amino-3- NEG Referred test to
Hydroxy-5-Methyl-4- POS with clinical 14-21 days Institute of
Isoxazolepropionic interpretive comment Molecular
Acid Receptor Medicine, Oxford
(AMPA)
Biochem Alpha-1-Antitrypsin 0.9-2.0 g/L 24 hours Contact Duty
Biochemist if
phenotype
required.

An acute phase
response may
cause the
plasma
 concentration of
alpha-1-
antitrypsin to rise
and mask
deficiency.
Biochem Alpha-Feto Protein 1-10 kU/L 24 hours Used in
monitoring
patients with
non-
seminomatous
germ cell tumour
and in screening
and diagnosis of
hepatocellular
carcinoma
Biochem ALT (alanine Adult 1-55 U/L 24 hours. Source of range
transaminase) *see Patient report –
for specific age Caliper study values
for children and
related ranges. expected values from
kit insert for adults.

Biochem Aluminium <0.37 nmol/L Referral Test

14- 21 days toTrace Element
Laboratory,
Medical
Biochemistry,
University
Hospital of Wales
Source of
reference range -
Trace Element
Laboratory, Medical
Biochemistry,
University Hospital of
Wales
Biochem Amikacin Interpretative 7 days Referral Test to
comment given Antimicrobial
Reference
Laboratory,
Department of
Microbiology,
Southmead
Hospital
Biochem Amino Acids Interpretative 7-14 days Referral Test to
comment given Biochemical
Genetics Unit
lithium heparin Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
Biochem Amino Acids (urine) Universal rand Interpretative 14 days Referral Test to
om comment given Biochemical
Genetics Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
A plasma sample
is the specimen
of choice for first
line Amino Acids
investigation.
 24 hour
specimens are
rarely indicated
for generalised
screening.
Please contact
laboratory for
more information.
Biochem Amiodarone Measurement of
levels hardly ever
required; patients
on amiodarone
0.5 -2.0 mg/L 14- 21 days treatment require
regular
monitoring of
TFTs and renal
function.
Referral Test to
Toxicology
Laboratory, The
Academic Centre
Llandough
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Toxicology Laboratory
, The Academic Centre
Llandough Hospital

Biochem Ammonia > 16+ 18-72 *see 24 hours Unstable

Patient report for compound. Blood
specific age related must arrive in the
ranges. laboratory within
15 minutes, on
ice. Notify
Department in
advance.

Pathology
Harmony
reference
intervals for
children and
expected values
in kit insert for
adults
Micro Amoebic Antibodies 14 days This test is
Screen referred to the
Hospital for
tropical
Diseases,
London
Biochem Please request
individually when
Amphetamine Urine NEG/POS (500 ug/L 7 days requesting Urine
cut-off) Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Biochem Amylase Range u/L. *see 24 hours Source of range-
Patient report for Caliper study values
for children and
specific age related expected values from
ranges. kit insert for adults.
Biochem Androstenedione Units: nmol/L Referral Test to
*See patient report 14- 21 days Southampton
for specific gender & Specialist
age related ranges Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem Angiotensin Referral Test to
Converting Enzyme Department of
Chemical
Pathology, Bristol
Royal Infirmary
Source of
reference range -
≥16yrs: 8-52 U/L Department of
Chemical Pathology,
14- 21 days Bristol Royal Infirmary
Request form
must state
whether patients
are receiving
ACE inhibitors.
ACE inhibitors
will result in
decreased
activity for up to
12 hours post
dose
Blood Antenatal Antibody 1-4 days TAT dependent
Bank Titre follow-up on urgency

Pink
Micro Antenatal Virus 3 days Patient must be
Screen counselled.

Micro Antenatal Virus 5 days Patient must be

Screen With HIV counselled.

Immuno Anti - Cardiac Muscle NEG Referred test to

Antibody POS with clinical 14-21 days Protein reference
interpretive comment Unit, Sheffield
Immuno Anticardiolipin Interpretative 10 days
Antibody comment given

Immuno Anti Endomysial (IgA) POS/NEG 14 days

Antibodies

Immuno Anti Endomysial POS/NEG 14 days Available for

(IgG) Antibodies ?coeliac with
confirmed IgA
deficiency
Immuno Anti-Hu Antibodies POS/NEG 14 days

Biochem Anti Mullerian

Hormone (AMH) Source of range for
Units: pmol/L 7days Male and paediatric
Beckman Test kit
 *See patient report insert
Source of Adult female
for specific age & range previous AMH
gender related kit also from Beckman.
ranges
Immuno Anti-Neutrophil Interpretative 14 days
Antibody comment given

or gold top
Immuno Anti-Neutrophil POS/NEG 7 days
Cytoplasmic
Antibodies
Immuno Anti-Phospholipase Referred test to
AZ Receptor (Anti- 14-21 days Protein
PLA2R) Reference Unit,
Sheffield
Immuno Anti-Purkinje Cell POS/NEG 14 days
Antibodies

Immuno Anti-Skin BM POS/NEG 14 days

Antibody

Immuno Anti-Skin ICS POS/NEG 14 days

Antibody

Immuno Anti-Sperm Interpretative 8 – 12 weeks This test is

Antibodies (blood) comment given referred to
Southmead
or gold top Hospital, Bristol
Haem Antithrombin III 80-120 % activity 14 days Contact
Consultant
Haematologist (
part of
thrombophilia
screen)
Immuno Anti TSH Receptor POS/NEG 14 days
Antibody

Hcoag APTT Ratio ratio 1.5-2.5 24 hours Same bottle as

APTT.
Immuno Aquaporin-4 POS/NEG with 21 days This assay is
antibodies (AQP4) values as free text referred to
comment Immunology
Laboratory,
Oxford University
Hospital
Biochem Arsenic (Blood) 0 - 0.13 umol/L Referral Test to
14- 21 days Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Cyto Ascitic Fluid 25ml white top Reference
(malignant cells) universal 5 days* should be made
to special notes
*>50% in the
reported
 within 5 days Cytopathology
section.
- more
complex
cases may
take longer.
Micro Conical 1 day Test covers RSV,
Aspirate Aspiration Influenza A & B,
Nasopharyngeal - Tube Adenovirus and
respiratory viruses Parafluenza.
Bacterial culture
on neonates
Biochem AST (aspartate 5-34 u/L Adult. 24 hours Affected by
transminase) *see Patient report Haemolysis.
for specific age Source of range -
related ranges. Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults.
Immuno Autoantibody Screen POS/NEG Atypical or rare
14-21 days patterns may be
sent to the
Protein
Reference Unit,
Sheffield if
confirmation of
rare/atypical
patterns is
required
Haem Autohaemolysis - Interpretative 3 days Contact
Red cells comment given Consultant
x2 Haematologist.

edta
x2 Lithium Hep
Mortuary Autopsy Up to 3 months Consent
dependant on the required. See
material retained. Anatomical
Pathology
(Mortuary
section)/Requesti
ng a consented
autopsy.
Immuno Basal Ganglia NEG 21 days This assay is
antibodies (ABGA) POS with values as referred to
free text comment Institute of
and clinical Neurology,
interpretive comment Queen Square,
London
Molecular BCR/ABC1 t(9;22) Interpretative 14 days Must arrive in
qualitative BCR/ABC1 comment given laboratory as
in CML/ALL soon as possible
Molecular BCR/ABC1 t(9;22) trend of patient's 21 days Must arrive in
quantitative BCR/ABC1 past results given laboratory as
monitoring soon as possible
Immuno Bence Jones Protein Universal earl Interpretative 5 days
(urine) y am comment given
Biochem Please request
individually when
Benzodiazepine Urine NEG/POS (200 ug/L 7 days requesting Urine
cut-off) Drugs of Abuse
 Screen
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Biochem Beta-2 Microglobulin 0.1 – 2.2 for all ages 14 days Referral Test to
and sexes Department of
Clinical
Chemistry Royal
Devon and
Exeter Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Department of Clinical
Chemistry Royal
Devon and Exeter
Hospital
Immuno Beta-2-Glycoprotein Referral test to
antibodies (B2GP1) Protein
Unit- U/ml 14-21 days Reference Unit,
NEG Sheffield
POS with clinical Source of
interpretive comment reference range-
PRU, Sheffield
Biochem Beta-OH Butyrate Raised in
(3-OH Butyrate) hypoglycaemia
or when insulin is
suppressed.
Referral Test to
Fasting levels 0.03 7 -14 days Biochemical
- 0.3 mmol/L. Genetics Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Biochemical Genetics
Unit Pathology
Sciences Building
Southmead Hospital

Biochem Bicarbonate (CO2) 22-29 mmol/L 24 hours Specimens from

GP surgeries are
not routinely
tested, add on
requests for this
test are not
possible.

Source of range-
Harmony reference
intervals
Biochem Bile Acids 0-14 umol/L 1-3 days Sometimes
helpful in
management of
obstetric
cholestatsis,
RCOG guidelines
available.
Referral Test to
Clinical
Chemistry
Department,
Treliske Hospital
Source of
 reference range -
Clinical Chemistry
Department, Treliske
Hospital
Micro Bilharzia Antibody 14 days This test is
Screen referred to the
Hospital for
tropical
Diseases,
London
Biochem Total Bilirubin <21 umol/L 24 hours Source of range--
Caliper study values
for <14 days of age
and expected values
from kit insert for >14
days of age.
Biochem Bilirubin (CSF) Universal – No units 2hrs Must be an
"xanthochromia" Protect from Interpretative appropriate test
light. comment given. request,
>12hours post
Minimum event, in patients
Specimen with Negative CT
Volume 350ul. scan. Deliver to
lab by hand
protected from
light.

Minimum
Specimen
Volume 350ul.
Cruickshank A,
Auld P, Beetham
R, Burrows G,
Egner W,
Holbrook I, Keir
G, Lewis E, Patel
D, Watson I,
White P. Annals
of Clinical
Biochemistry
(2008); 45: 238-
244. Revised
national
guidelines for
analysis of
cerebrospinal
fluid for bilirubin
in suspected
subarachnoid
haemorrhage.

Biochem Bilirubin Adult (19+ years) 0- 24 hours Performed to

(direct/conjugated) 8.6 umol/l help elucidate
*See patient report cause of jaundice
for paediatric ranges when total
bilirubin raised.
Source of range -
Caliper study values
for children and
expected values from
kit insert for adults
Biochem Unconjugated No units 24 hours Calculated from
Bilirubin bilirubin and
conjugated
bilirubin
Micro Blood Culture Blood Culture Interpretative Telephoned Avoid covering or
Set comment given same day if defacing barcode
positive; 36 on bottle label.
hours if neg Results
ative. telephoned on
same day if
positive
Biochem BNP Units ng/L 4 hours Urgent sample
must be
BNP is processed within
recommended for 4 hours.
ruling out Heart
Failure, but not to
establish diagnosis.
The upper limit of
normal in the non-
acute condition is 35
ng/L. A serum BNP
level <100ng/L in an
untreated patient
makes diagnosis of
heart failure unlikely.
Refer patients with
suspected heart
failure to have
transthoracic
Doppler 2D
echocardiography
for BNP level
between 100-400
ng/L within 6 weeks
and refer within 2
weeks for level >400
ng/L.

*see Patient report

for specific age
related ranges.
Haem Bone Marrow Interpretative 14 days Only performed
Examination comment given by Haematology
medical staff.
Micro Bordetella Pertussis Perinasal 10 days
Culture Swab/Wire
Stem
Micro Bordetella Pertussis 14 days This test is
Serology referred to the
HPA RSIL,
Colindale,
London
Micro Borrelia Burgdorferi 4 days
Antibody Screen

Cyto Breast Cyst Fluid 25ml white top Reference

universal 5 days* should be made
to special notes
*>50% in the
reported Cytopathology
within 5 days section.
- more
complex
cases may
 take longer.
Cyto FNA samples Plastic slide Reference
carrier and/or 5 days* should be made
to special notes
Cytospin *>50% in the
collection Fluid reported Cytopathology
in 10 ml within 5 days section.
conical tube - more
and/or complex
cases may
Saline solution
in 10 ml take longer.
conical tube
Cyto Bronchial Brushings Plastic slide 5 days* Reference
(malignant cells) carrier and/or *>50% should be made
in Cytospin reported to special notes
collection Fluid within 5 days in the
in 10 ml - more Cytopathology
conical tube. complex section.
cases may
take longer.
Cyto Bronchial Lavage 25ml white top Reference
(malignant cells) universal 5 days* should be made
containing to special notes
equal amount *>50% in the
of Cytospin reported Cytopathology
Collection fluid within 5 days section.
(obtainable - more
from Cytology
complex
Department
52355) cases may
take longer.
Micro Bronchial Washings - Sterile plastic 3 days
Culture universal
Micro Bronchial Washings - Sterile plastic 3 days Arrange with
Pneumocystis universal Consultant
Microbiologist
prior to taking
sample.
Micro Brucella Antibody 7-14 days This test is
Screen referred to the
HPA Brucella
Reference
Laboratory,
Liverpool
Biochem Interpretative
comment given.
Buprenorphine - The cut-offs used to Source of range
Subutex (Urine) Universal define positive 14 days European Workplace
Testing Threshold
results are given
below;
Positive
Buprenorphin >5 ug/L
e
Biochem C - Reactive Protein Negative < 5 mg/l 24 hours Reference range
(CRP) from kit insert

Immuno C1 Esterase Inhibitor 0.1 - 5 mg/l 5 days

Immuno C1 Esterase Inhibitor < 40% abnormal; 5 days
Function 41-67%=equivocal >
68% =normal
Biochem CA 19-9 0-37 kU/L 3-4 days Useful in the
follow up of
pancreatic
cancer and in
differential
diagnosis of an
ovarian mass.
Not proven use
in screening.

Expected values
from kit insert
Biochem CA125 0-35 kU/L 24 hours Useful in follow
up of ovarian
cancer. Limited
role in screening.

Source of
reference range
is kit insert
Biochem Caeruloplasmin Useful as a
second-line test
in the
investigation of
liver disease,
Units: g/L 14 days together with the
*See patient report measurement of
for specific gender & copper.
age related ranges Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical
Chemistry
Northern General
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Department of Clinical
Chemistry Northern
General Hospital
Biochem F < 5.5, M <18.9 28 days Unstable
Calcitonin ng/L hormone. Blood
On ice must arrive in the
SSTx2 laboratory within
15 minutes, on
ice. Notify
Department in
advance.
Referral Test to
The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical
Biochemistry &
Medical
Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
The SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
 Charing Cross
Hospital
Biochem Calcium Adult 2.20-2.5 24 hours Suggest use
mmol/L. *see Patient corrected value
report for specific to interpret
age related ranges. calcium status
unless marked
change in
albumin
concentration.

Source of range -
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals for
children and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Biochem Adjusted Calcium
Adult 2.10 – 2.55
mmol//L 24hrs Calculated from
*see patient report calcium and
for specific age albumin
related ranges concentration

Molecular Calreticulin (CALR) Interpretive 14 days

exon 9 gene comment given
mutations in MPV
Micro Campylobacter 14 days This test is
Antibody Screen referred to the
HPA, Preston
Biochem Cannabis Universal Source of range -
European
NEG/POS (50 ug/L 7 days Workplace
cut-off) Testing Threshold
Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Biochem Carbamazepine 4-12 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section
Pre-dose
Micro Carbapenemase Faeces in sterile 3 days
resistant plastic universal +
enterobacteriacae spoon
(CRE) screen

Biochem Carboxyhaemoglobin
"RC Baselt: Carbon
Carboxyhaemoglobi monoxide. RC Baselt
n reference range is 24hrs Disposition of toxic
0 – 2.0% drugs and chemical in
man. 10th ed 2014
Heavy smokers may Biomedical
have levels in Publications Seal
excess of 6.0% Beach, CA 354-357"
Biochem Carcinoembryonic 0-5 ug/L 24 hours Useful in follow-
Antigen (CEA) up of colorectal
and some other
cancers. Very
limited role in
diagnosis.

Expected values
 from kit insert.
Biochem Carnitine Profile Interpretative 4-6 weeks Referral Test to
comment given Department of
Clinical
Chemistry and
Newborn
Screening
Sheffield
Children’s NHS
Trust

Biochem Anti-CCP Negative <20 7 days Test referred

away.
Weak positive 20 - 39
Royal Devon and
Moderate positive 40 -59 Exeter Hospital
(Roche assay)
Strong positive >=60

Cerebrospinal Fluid - see CSF

If sending CSF to more than one Department please send adequate fluid and separate request
forms
Cyto Cervical Cytology ThinPrep LBC Service RCHT enquiry
container transferred to line 01872
Royal Cornwall 252550
Hospital, Truro
Micro Chickenpox Antibody 5 days If from contact
Screen result available
same day
Micro Chickenpox Antigen Send swab of 2 days Collect fluid from
Screen lesion in UTM (Red outer edge of the
liquid Medium) vesicle. Contact
laboratory on
52376.
Molecular Chimerism (post- Interpretive 7 days
stem cell transplant) comment given Referred test:
Sent to NHSBT,
Filton
Micro Chlamydia Antigen Chlamydia 3 days
PCR Test Transport Medium First catch urine
sample or self-
taken
vulvovaginal
swab.
Use white topped
sterile universal
for Urine
samples (Boric
acid containers
are not suitable).

Use white topped

sterile universal
for Urine
samples (Boric
acid containers
are not suitable)
Micro Chlamydia Group 5 days Adequate clinical
Antibody Screen information must
be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
14 days into
illness).
Micro Chlamydia 14 days This test is only
Trachomatis indicated for
Antibody Screen cases of infertility
/ PID
Biochem Chloride 95-108 mmol/L 24 hours Source of range
- Pathology Harmony
reference intervals

Biochem Cholesterol Units mmol/L 24 hours Source of range-

Caliper reference
Interpret result interval for under
with reference 19yrs. (1.1 – 4.4
to current mmol/L)
clinical
guidelines for
prevention of
vascular
disease
Biochem Cholesterol/HDL No units 24 hours Calculated from
ratio cholesterol and
HDL
Biochem Cholinesterase Interpretative 12 weeks Useful in
comment given investigation of
suxamethonium
sensitivity.
Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical
Biochemistry
Cholinesterase
Investigation Unit
Pathology
Sciences
Building
Southmead
Hospital
Biochem Chromogranin A and Unstable
B (GAWK) proteins. Blood
Chromogranin must arrive in
A: <60 pmol/L 4-6 weeks laboratory within
Chromogranin 15 minutes, on
B: <150 pmol/L ice. Notify
department in
advance.
Referral Test to
The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical
 Biochemistry &
Medical
Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
The SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Biochem Ciclosporin Units ug/L 72hrs See Therapeutic
(cyclosporin) No reference Drug monitoring
range given. Section.
Trough/predose Measured
Monday,
Wednesday and
Friday

Hcoag Coagulation factor 50-150 % 7 days Contact

assays laboratory prior
to taking samples
2 samples required - Ext.33244 or
33245
Hcoag Coagulation factor 7 days Contact
inhibitor laboratory prior
to taking samples
2 samples required - Ext.33244 or
33245
Hcoag Coagulation screen Interpretative 24 hours
comment given

Biochem Cocaine Urine

Please request
individually when
NEG/POS 7 days requesting Urine
(300 ug/L cut- Drugs of Abuse
off) Screen
Source of range -
European Workplace
Testing Threshold
Blood Cold agglutinins 48 hours Requires
Bank overnight
incubation
Pink
Immuno Collagen Type II NEG 14-21 days Referred test to
antibodies (COLLA2) POS with Protein
clinical Reference Unit,
interpretive Sheffield
comment
Histo Colorectal Bowels 3-14 days Reference
should be made
to special notes
in histopathology
section. Most
specimens are
reported within
the 3-14 days
period. Complex
or specimens
that need more
consideration or
 additional special
investigations will
take longer to
report.
Immuno Complement C3 & Units g/L 24 hours Source of range -
C4 *see Patient Caliper study values
for children and
report for expected values from
specific age kit insert for adults.
related ranges.
Immuno Contactin- NEG Referred test to
Associated Protein & POS with 14-21 days Institute of
LG/1 Leucine-Rich clinical Molecular
Glioma Inactivated 1 interpretive Medicine, Oxford
(CASPR) comment
Biochem Copper 11-25.1 umol/L 24 hours R.D. Eastman;
Biochemical Values in
Clinical Medicine.

Trace Elements
Histo Copper (Dry weight) Dry container 6 weeks Annotate 'DRY
COPPER
WEIGHT
REQUEST' on
request
form. Place
specimen dry in
wide mouth
container. DO
NOT ADD
FORMALIN.
Specimen sent to
another centre
for testing.
Biochem Copper (urine) Plain 24 hour 0-1.1 µmol/24 2 days R.D. Eastman;
Biochemical Values in
hr Clinical Medicine.
Biochem Cortisol No reference 24 hrs Values > 440
range quoted. nmol/L make
Units: nmol/L adrenal failure
improbable.

This value was

derived in house
as part of the
verification of the
assay. Contact
duty biochemist
to discuss.
Biochem Cortisol (urine) Plain 24 hour <165 nmol/24h 3-4 weeks Referral Test to
South
Manchester
Pathology
Services,
Wythenshawe
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe Hospital
Micro Coxiella Burnetti Adequate clinical
Antibody Screen 14- 21 days information must
be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
 are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
14 days into
illness).
Micro Coxsackie Virus 7-14 days
Antibody Screen

Biochem C-Peptide Referral Test to

Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Units: pmol/L 28 days Southampton
*See patient General Hospital
report for Source of
specific gender reference range -
& age related Southampton
Specialist
ranges Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital

Biochem Creatine Kinase F 25-200 U/L 24 hours Marker of

M 40-320 U/L skeletal and
cardiac muscle
damage. Collect
sample at least 8
hours after
suspected MI.

Source of range-
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Creatinine Units umol/L 24 hours Source of range -
*see Patient Caliper study values
for children and
report for expected values from
specific age kit insert for adults.
related ranges.
Biochem Creatinine Clearance Plain 24 hour M 85–125 Not generally
(urine) F 75-115 available - refer
ml/minute to eGFR
associated with
serum creatinine
report or contact
Duty Biochemist
to discuss

Reference range
sourced:

Baseline renal
function
screening. Am J
Cardiol. 2006
Sep
18;98(6A):21K-
26K. Epub 2006
 Feb 20
Blood Crossmatch 1-2 hours Results will take
Bank longer depending
on the nature of
Pink the antibodies
Immuno Cryoglobulin 10 days Contact lab to
arrange this test-
flask required for
collection-cannot
be done Friday
after 12.00
Micro Cryptococcal 14 days This test is
Antigen Detection referred to HPA
SW Laboratory,
Bristol
Molecular CSF3R gene Interpretive 28 days This test is
mutation in CNL comment given referred to
Southmead,
Bristol or WRGL
Micro CSF - 14.3.3 & S100 Sterile plastic 14.3.3 - 7 -14 days Stored frozen in
for CJD universal normally microbiology.
negative S100 Neurology to
<0.41 ng/ml arrange transport
to CJD
Surveillance Unit
(Edinburgh) for
testing. Please
note blood
contamination
invalidates test.
Biochem CSF - AFP Plain Universal No reference 24hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been
Units: kiU/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem CSF - Bilirubin See Bilirubin
Micro CSF - Culture Sterile plastic 2 days
universal
Haem CSF - Cytospin Plain Universal 7 days State origin of
fluid on request
form
Biochem CSF - Ferritin Plain Universal No reference 24hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted. not been
Units: ug/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem CSF - Glucose Grey/yellow paed No reference 24 hours ‘This assay has
range quoted. not been
Units: mmol. validated for
measurement on
Interpret in fluids’
relation to
plasma
glucose taken
simultaneously
Biochem CSF – hCG Plain Universal No reference 24 hours
range quoted.
Units IU/L
Biochem CSF Lactate Plain Universal 1.1-2.4 mmol/L 24hrs Adult reference
interval from
previous Roche
assay.
 ‘This assay has
not been
validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem CSF LDH Plain Universal No reference 24hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been
Units: U/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Cyto CSF - Malignant 25ml white top 5 days* Arrange with lab
cells universal *>50% prior to sending
reported within on ext 52355. If
5 days - more an out of hours
complex cases request,
may take refrigerate
longer. overnight before
delivery to the
department
between 9 and
10 am the
following
morning. Contact
on-call BMS via
the Hospital
Switchboard to
inform them CSF
has been taken.
Reference
should be made
to special notes
in the
Cytopathology
section. If
sending CSF to
more than one
department,
please send
adequate
amounts of fluid
and separate
request forms
appropriate to
the tests
required.
Micro CSF - Microscopy Sterile plastic Same day
universal
Immuno CSF - Oligoclonal Universal 7 days Send blood
bands sample (gold)
simultaneously
Immuno CSF Oligoclonal Universal 10 days Must always be
Bands sent with the
(accompanying CSF Oligoclonal
blood sample) bands request
Micro CSF - PCR Sterile plastic 3 days Performed on
universal suspected viral
meningitis
(Enterovirus,
Herpes or
Varicella Zoster,
Mumps) or
suspected
Meningococcal
 Meningitis.
Biochem CSF – Protein Plain Universal 0.15-0.45 g/L 24hrs Reference range
sourced: Tietz
textbook of
Clinical
Chemistry
Biochem CSF - Tau Protein Universal POS/NEG 21 days May be useful to
(Beta 2 Transferrin) differentiate CSF,
in which it is
present, from
nasal fluid.
Referral Test to
Sheffield NGH
Protein
Reference Unit,
Northern General
Hospital,
Sheffield

Molecular Cyclin D1 Over Interpretative 14 days Must arrive in

Expression comment given laboratory as
soon as possible
Cyto Cyst Fluids 25ml white top Reference
universal 5 days* should be made
to special notes
*>50% in the
reported within Cytopathology
5 days - more section.
complex cases
may take
longer.
Cytogenetics Interpretive 28 days Cytogenetics (
comment given karyotying,
chromosome
studies) - It is the
responsibility of
x2 edta the requesting
x2 Lithium Hep clinician to
ensure such
samples
reach their
destination
Micro Cytomegalovirus 3 days Adequate clinical
Antibody Screen information must
(IgG/IgM) be given to
ensure
appropriate tests
are performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute
samples may be
held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least
14 days into
illness).
Micro Cytomegalovirus 3 days
PCR Detection As part of
Pathology's Servi
ce Improvement
 programme, the
CMV/Epstein-
Barr Virus (EBV)
molecular testing
service will
transfer to new
Abbott
equipment/
reagents as from
Monday 17 July.
Validation testing
has shown that
CMV results are
comparable, but
EBV results are
on average
slightly lower
than the current
method (by
approximately
0.3 Log10 value).

Results will
continue to be
reported in IU/ml
format. It is also
requested that
separate EDTA
tubes are
supplied for each
test.
Haem Cytospin Analysis Universal 7 days State origin of
(CSF or aspirates) fluid on request
form
Hcoag D-Dimer <0.5 FEU 24 hours
mg/ml

Biochem Dehydroepi- Referral Test to

androsterone Clinical
Sulphate (DHEAS) Units: umol/L Chemistry
*See patient 7 -14 days Department,
report for Treliske Hospital
specific gender Source of
& age related reference range -
ranges Clinical Chemistry
Department, Treliske
Hospital
Hcoag DIC screen 24 hours Includes
fibrinogen and D-
dimer
Biochem Digoxin 0.5-1.0 ug/L 24 hours Samples for
Digoxin should
be drawn at least
6-10 hours Post- 6 and preferably
dose 18 hours post-
dose. Target
 range in heart
failure, 0.5-1.0
ug/L.

Source of range
– Pathology
Harmony
reference
intervals
Blood 1-2 hours
Bank Direct Coombs Test
(DCT)
Pink

Biochem Downs Screen Interpretative 7 – 14 days Referral Test to

comment given Department of
Clinical
Chemistry Royal
Devon and
Exeter Hospital
Refer to
Obstetric
Department for
specific
guidance.

Immuno Ear Shock Protein- NEG 21 days

Anti-68KD (HSP-70) POS with Purchase Order
autoantibodies clinical required: This
(EAR) interpretive test can only be
comment
ordered by the
Immunology
clinicians &/or in
discussion senior
BMS in
Immunology.
Referred test to
Cambridge Life
Sciences
Micro EBV PCR 3 days
As part of
Pathology's Servi
ce Improvement
programme, the
CMV/Epstein-
Barr Virus (EBV)
molecular testing
service will
transfer to new
Abbott
equipment/
reagents as from
Monday 17 July.
Validation testing
has shown that
CMV results are
comparable, but
 EBV results are
on average
slightly lower
than the current
method (by
approximately
0.3 Log10 value).

Results will
continue to be
reported in IU/ml
format. It is also
requested that
separate EDTA
tubes are
supplied for each
test.
Biochem eGFR No reference 24 hours Calculated from
range quoted. serum creatinine
Units: - reported as part
ml/min/1.73m2 of the renal
profile.

Estimated GFR
(eGFR) should
be multiplied by
1.159 for patients
of Arfican-
Caribbean origin.
eGFR is now
calculated using
CKD-EPI
equation.
Molecular EGFR (epidermal Tissue provided by Interpretive 7 days
growth factor Cellular pathology comment given
receptor) gene
muations in NSCLC
Biochem Profile 1 Electrolytes See individual 24 hours Term used
(serum) test details. inappropriately to
indicate a
request for
sodium,
potassium,
creatinine and
bicarbonate
Biochem Electrolytes (urine) Plain 24 hours Random sample
often helpful.
Contact Duty
Biochemist to
discuss if
required
Histo Electron Microscopy 4.0% gluteral- 28 days Arrange with the
dehyde Histopathology
laboratory prior
to taking sample-
tel extn 52362
Immuno Endothelial Cell NEG Referred test to
Antibodies (ECAB) POS with 14-21 days Protein
clinical Reference Unit,
 interpretive Sheffield
comment
Micro Enterobius Sellotape 1 day See Threadworm
impression microscopy
Immuno Eosinophilic Cationic Reported as Referred test to
Protein (EOCP) values; POS 14-21 days Protein
with clinical Reference Unit,
interpretive Sheffield.
comment
Biochem Epilim (valproate) 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section. Pre-
Pre-dose dose sample
required
Micro Epstein-Barr Virus 3 days
IgG Screen

Micro Epstein-Barr Virus 3 days

IgM Screen

Biochem Erythropoietin Referral Test to

Clinical
Biochemistry,
5 – 25U/L (for 7- 14 days King’s College
an individual Hospital
with a Hb Source of
within limits). reference range -
Clinical Biochemistry,
King’s College
Hospital
Biochem Ethanol nb legal driving 24 hours
limit
80mg/100mL
(17.4 mmol/L)
Immuno Extractable Nuclear POS/NEG 14 days
Antigen Screen

Immuno Extractable Nuclear POS/NEG 21 days

Antigens Type

Hcoag Factor IX assay 50-150% 7 days Contact

laboratory prior
to taking samples
- Ext.33244 or
33245
Molecular Factor V Leiden & Interpretative 14 days
Prothrombin gene comment given
mutations
Haem Factor VIII Assay 50-150% <7 days Contact
laboratory prior
to taking samples
- Ext 33244 or
33245. This test
is referred to
Oxford
Haemophilia and
Thrombosis
Centre.
Biochem Faecal Calprotectin Blue Faecal pot Units: ug/g 14 days Refer to NICE
guidance DG11 and
<45 ug/g - any locally developed
Calprotectin guidelines for patient
within management.
 reference Please ‘phone if
range not you wish to
suggestive of discuss - Duty
intestinal Biochemist
inflammation 01752 517936.
≥ 45 ug/g an
Interpretative
comment
given.

Biochem Faecal Elastase 1

Blue Referral Test to
Universal + Spoon > 200 Normal Clinical
ugE1/g stool Chemistry
< 100 Severe 14- 21 days Department,
pancreatic Treliske Hospital
insufficiency Source of
ugE1/g stool reference range -
Clinical Chemistry
Department, Treliske
Hospital
Cyto Faecal Fat Globules Universal + Spoon Reference
(cytology) 5 days* should be made
to special notes
*>50% in the
reported within Cytopathology
5 days - more section.
complex cases Restricted to
investigation of
may take
paediatric cases
longer. only.
Micro Faeces - Clostridium 1 day No need to send
Difficile GDH & Toxin Sterile plastic follow-up
universal + Spoon samples if initial
test is positive
for toxin. (Toxin
can persist up to
2 weeks)
Micro Faeces - Culture Sterile plastic 3 days Do not overfill
universal + Spoon container.
Include details of
foreign travel.
Include details of
food consumed if
food poisoning
suspected
Micro Faeces - Enteric Sterile plastic 2 days Do not overfill
PCR Test universal + Spoon container.
Include details of
foreign travel.
Include details of
food consumed if
food poisoning
suspected
Micro Faeces - Microscopy Sterile plastic 2 days Do not overfill
(Parasitology) universal + Spoon container.
Include details of
foreign travel. If
amoebic
dysentery is
suspected then a
hot stool sample
is preferred.
 Arrange with
laboratory prior
to submission on
01752 792380.
Micro Faeces - Norovirus Sterile plastic If Norovirus 1 day from
universal + Spoon outbreak request
suspected,
notify Infection
Control for
urgent testing
Micro Faeces - other Sterile plastic 14 days
Virology universal + Spoon
Biochem Ferritin Adult (19+ 24 hours Caliper study
years) values for
F 10-204 ug/L children under
M 22-275 ug/L 19yrs and
*see Patient expected values
report for from kit insert for
specific gender adults but with a
and age LLN of 10 ug/L
related ranges. for adult females.
Hcoag Fibrinogen 1.5-4.5 ug/ml 24 hours

H&I Flow Cytometric Interpretative <7 days For renal

Crossmatch comment given transplant. Must
be booked with
H&I lab 52390
Biochem Flucytosine Referral Test to
Antimicrobial
Reference
Interpretative 7 days Laboratory
comment given Department of
Microbiology,
Southmead
Hospital
Arrange with
Consultant
Microbiologist
prior to taking
sample.
Biochem Fluid Albumin Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units: g/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Amylase Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units: U/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Bilirubin Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units umol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Cholesterol Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units mmol/L validated for
measurement on
 fluids’
Biochem Fluid Chloride Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units mmol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Bicarbonate Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units: mmol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Creatinine Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units umol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Glucose Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units mmol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Potassium Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
validated for
Units mmol/L measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid LDH Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units U/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Lipase Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units U/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Magnesium Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units mmol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Sodium Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units mmol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Protein Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units g/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Triglyceride Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units mmol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid Urea Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units mmol/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid AFP Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units kIU/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid CA125 Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units kU/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid CA19-9 Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units kU/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid CEA Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units ug/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem Fluid hCG Universal container No reference 24 hrs ‘This assay has
range quoted not been fully
Units IU/L validated for
measurement on
fluids’
Biochem A full specimen
pot is required
and must be
received in lab as
Fluid pH Universal (FULL) Unit: pH 2hr soon as possible
No reference and analysed
range given with 2 hours of
collection.
Notify Duty
Biochemist in
advance, when
requesting this
test.
Micro Fluid - Vesicle Swab of lesion in 5 days Collect fluid from
Herpes Virus PCR / PCR (UTM) within the vesicle
IFT transport medium or swab the
periphery of
lesion collecting
matter and fluid if
possible.
Micro Fluid CAPD - Culture CAPD dialysis bag 3 days Send complete
sealed with clip dialysis bag in a
sealed double
white plastic bag
Micro Fluid CAPD - Sealed dialysis bag Same day
Microscopy
Micro Fluid Cerebrospinal - Sterile plastic 1 day
PCR universal Performed on
suspected viral
 meningitis
(Enterovirus,
Herpes or
Varicella Zoster)
or suspected
Meningococcal
Meningitis.

Note: EDTA
Blood sample
can also be
tested for
Meningococcal
PCR

Micro Fluid Culture eg Sterile plastic 3 days State site on

ascitic, pleural, joint, universal request form and
csf sample
Micro Fluid Microscopy eg Sterile plastic 1 day State site on
ascitic,csf, pleural, universal request form and
joint sample
Micro Fluid Mycobacteria - Sterile plastic 12 weeks
Culture universal
Micro Fluid Mycobacteria - Sterile plastic 1 day
Microscopy universal
Cyto Fluids -ascitic, joint, 25ml white top Reference
pleural universal 5 days* should be made
to special notes
*>50% in the
reported within Cytopathology
5 days - more section.
complex cases
may take
longer.
Biochem Folate (serum) Adult 3.1 - 20 Caliper study
ug/L. values for
children and
*see Patient expected values
report for from kit insert for
specific age adults.
related ranges.
Biochem Free Androgen Index M: (0-49yr) – 24hrs Calculated from
24.5 – 113.3 testosterone and
M (50yr+) – SHBG.
19.3 – 118.4
F: (0-49yr) – Reference
0.7 – 8.7 intervals taken
F: (50yr+) – 0.5 from Abbott
– 4.7 product alert
notice –
September 14th,
2015
Biochem Free Fatty Acids Send to
Laboratory
immediately.
Usually
requested with 3-
 hydroxybutyrate
Fasting levels 14 days and glucose.
0.1-0.9 mmol/L Referral Test to
Biochemical
Genetics Unit,
Southmead
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
Biochemical Genetics
Unit , Southmead
Hospital
Glucose
concentration
required for
referral.
Biochem Free T3 Adult 2.6 - 5.7 24 hours Caliper study
pmol/L. *see values for
Patient report children and
for specific expected values
gender and from kit insert.
age related
ranges.
Biochem Free Thyroxine, FT4 Adult (19+ 24 hours Caliper study
years)9.0-19.0 values for
pmol/L. *see children and
Patient report expected values
for specific age from kit insert.
related ranges.
Histo Frozen Section Send sample in dry Less than 1 Arrange with
pot hour Histopathology
*complex/multi Laboratory prior
ple to taking sample
blocks/multiple - tel extn 52362.
specimens See notes in
may take 'Sending High
longer. Risk Specimens'
section if patient
is known, or
suspected, to be
an infection
hazard.*Please
note that we are
no longer able to
offer a frozen
section service to
count neutrophils
in specimens
from orthopaedic
joint revision
surgery (see
explanatory note
in Histopathology
Section)
Biochem FSH Male 1.0 - 12.0 24 hours Expected values
iu/L. from kit insert
Female -
dependent on
menstrual
phase. *see
Patient report
for specific age
related ranges.
Haem Full Blood Count *see Patient 24 hours
report for
specific age
related ranges
and red cell
parameters
including white
cell count and
differential.
Micro Fungal Culture - Sterile wide- 16 days
dermatophytes mouthed container
or folded black
paper.
Micro Fungal Culture - Charcoal swab or 2 days
yeasts pink top -E-swab
Micro Fungal Microscopy - Sterile wide- 2 days
dermatophytes mouthed container
or folded black
paper.
Micro Fungal Serology 21 days This test is
referred to HPA
SW Laboratory,
Bristol
Haem G6PD Deficiency Interpretative 7 days Contact
screen comment given laboratory prior
to taking sample
- Ext.33244 or
33245
Immuno GAD Antibodies POS/NEG Referred test to
(IDDM) (GADAD) Positive results Immunology
with Dept, R,D&E,
interpretative Exeter.
comment
Immuno GAD Antibodies POS/NEG Referred test to
(Stiff man syndrome) Positive results 14-21 days Institute of
(GADAS) with Molecular
interpretative Medicine, Oxford
comment
Biochem Gamma Glutamyl F Adult (19+ 24 hours Caliper study
Transferase (GGT) yrs) 9-36 U/L, values for
children under
M Adult 19yrs and
(19+yrs) 12-64 expected values
U/L from kit insert for
adults.
*see patient
report for
specific age
related ranges
Immuno Ganglioside/Glycolipi POS/NEG 21 days Referred test to
d/GM antibodies Positive results Dept of
(AGLY1) with Neurology,
interpretative Southern
comment General Hospital,
Glasgow
Cyto Gastric Brushings Plastic slide carrier 5 days* Reference
(malignant cells) and/or in Cytospin *>50% should be made
collection Fluid in reported within to special notes
10 ml conical tube. 5 days - more in the
complex cases Cytopathology
may take section.
longer.
Cyto Gastric Washings 25ml white top 5 days* Reference
(malignant cells) universal *>50% should be made
reported within to special notes
5 days - more in the
complex cases Cytopathology
may take section.
longer.
Biochem Gastrin (also part of 0-40 pmol/L 4-6 weeks Fasting sample
Gut Hormone required on ice.
Screen) x2 Contact Duty
On ice biochemist to
Fasting arrange.
Referral Test to
The SAS
Laboratories,
Clinical
Biochemistry &
Medical
Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Source of
reference range -
The SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital
Referral Genetic Tests It is the
Lab - see also responsibility of
Cytogentics the requesting
clinician to
ensure such
samples reach
their destination.

Please ensure
that the
appropriate
request form is
used for all
Genetic Test
Requests. For
those which are
sent to Bristol
Genetics
Laboratory -
attached below:
Bristol Genetics
Form (2).pdf
Link to Bristol
Genetics lab
Website is
attached below:
bristol_genetics
Biochem Gentamicin Units mg/L 24 hours Trough level
should be taken
immediately
Trough/pre-dose before a dose.
Peak level
should usually be
taken an hours
after a dose.
State drug
 regime and time
of last dose on
sample.

Trough - In
adults when
gentamicin is
being given once
daily, a trough
level of >1 mg/L
indicates the
need to increase
the interval
between doses.
Further advice is
available via the
on call
microbiologist via
30010 or bleep
via the
switchboard.

Multiple daily
doses of
gentamicin are
usually only
indicated in
endocarditis. In
such cases the
optimal ranges
are as follows;
Predose <1
mg/L, Postdose
3-5 mg/L at one
hour post-
infusion. Further
advice is
available via the
on call
microbiologist via
30010 or bleep
via switchboard.

Source of range -
?
Biochem Globulin 18-36 g/L 24 hours Calculated from
difference
between total
protein and
albumin
concentrations.
Source of range
– Pathology Harmony
reference intervals

Pathology Test List (continued)

Pathology Test List

Immuno Glomerular Base POS/NEG 7 days
Membrane
Antibodies
Biochem Glucose Normal reference 24 hours Fasting plasma
- plasma and fasting range 3.5 - 5.4 mmol/L glucose >7 mmol/L
(GP & Hospital) fasting. is consistent with
11.1 (random) diabetes. Fasting
consistent with plasma glucose 5.5-
diabetes mellitus, at 2 6.9 mmol/L indicates
hours. *see report in a patient is at high
pregnancy range risk of developing
fasting blood glucose type 2 diabetes [NICE
>= 5.3 mmol/L and 2 guideline PH38].
hours blood glucose
>= 7.8 mmol/L during
OGTT is consistent
with gestational DM
Biochem Glucose - CSF interpret in relation to 24 hours
plasma glucose taken
simultaneously
Biochem Glucose (GP) 24 hours

Biochem Glucose (Serum – No reference range 24 hours Glucose

Fasting – Hospital concentrations in
ONLY) serum specimens
can be spuriously
low due to the
absence of
preservative in the
tube. Please
interpret with caution
and follow up
glucose results with
measurement on a
plasma fluoride
oxalate sample
where appropriate.
Biochem Glucose Tolerance Diabetes Mellitus 24 hours A GTT is not
Test Fasting 2 hours appropriate or
7.0 or more 11.1 or more necessary in the
presence of
Sample 1 – Impaired glucose diagnostic
Fasting tolerance fasting/random
<7.0 7.8 - 11.0 plasma glucose
Sample 2 – concentrations as
2hr Impaired fasting above.
glycaemia Provide a fasting
6.1 - 6.9 <7.8 sample &
2hr sample.
In pregnancy a fasting
blood glucose greater
than or equal to 5.3
mmol/L and/or 2 hour
blood glucose greater
than or equal to 7.8
mmol/L during oGTT is
consistent with
gestational DM
Immuno Glycine Receptor POS/NEG Referred test to
antibody Positive results with 14-21 days Institute of Molecular
interpretative comment Medicine, Oxford
Blood Group and Save 1-2 hours Each group and
Bank antibody screen
takes 40 minutes-
 Pink however, they are
run in batches.
Biochem Growth Hormone Growth hormone ≥5 NICE guidelines
µg/L suggests TA64
adequate secretion. 48hrs A single
Growth hormone < measurement is of
0.4µg/L suggests that limited value,
acromegaly is unlikely. suppression/stimulati
on tests are often
required.
Biochem Gut Hormone Screen Interpretative comment 4-6 weeks Fasting sample
given required on ice.
x2 Contact Duty
On ice biochemist to
fasting arrange.

Referral Test to The

SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry
& Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital

Source of reference
range - The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross Hospital
Biochem Haemoglobin A1c 48 mmol/mol is the 24 hours Performing this test
(HbA1c) recommended cut off less than 3 months
point for diagnosing after a previous test
DM and considered is very rarely
good control for DM required except in
pregnancy. NICE
Guidelines.
Haem Haemoglobinopathy Interpretative comment Maybe up Sickle cell and
Screen given to 14 days thalassaemia
(3 days for screening. For
antenatal antenatal requests
patients) please use FOQ
form
Biochem Haptoglobin Male – 0-1yr: 0.0-3.0; 7 days Reference ranges
>1-12: 0.03 – 2.70; from kit insert
or >12-60: 0.14 – 2.58;
>60: 0.40-2.68

Female- 0-1yr: 0.0-

2.35; >1-12: 0.11 –
2.2; >12-60: 0.35 –
2.5; >60: 0.63-2.73

Units -g/L
Biochem HDL – Cholesterol F: Adult (19+yrs) 0.9 – 24hrs Caliper study values
(Part of LIPID profile) 1.8 mmol/L for children,
M:Adult (19+yrs) 0.9 –
1.6 mmol/L Ranges from NICE
Guidleines
*see patient report for
specific age related
ranges
Hist Helicobacter Pylori Formalin 7-14 days Endoscopy also
perform a breath test
commonly known as
CLO.
Micro Helicobacter pylori Sterile plastic 5 days Do not overfill.
faecal antigen test universal +
spoon
Hcoag Heparin Induced 90% in 5 This test is referred
Thrombocytopenia working to NHS-BT Filton.
days Contact lab on
33244 or 33245
Samples must be
delivered to
laboratory by hand.
NBS request form
must be filled out
and 4T score
completed.
Micro Hepatitis A IgG 3 days For immunity check
Antibody Screen prior to foreign
travel. These tests
are not covered by
the NHS and a
private charge will be
made.
Only those >50
years old or who
have resided in
developing countries
should be checked
for past
immunity. Treat all
others as susceptible
and vaccinate.
Micro Hepatitis A IgM 3 days For Hepatitis A
Antibody Screen Acute Infection.

Micro Hepatitis B Core 3 days This should be used

Antibody Screen to test for past
infection
Micro Hep B DNA 5 days

Micro Hepatitis B ‘e’ 3 days

antigen/antibody

Micro Hepatitis B Immunity 3 days This should be used

Screen to test for Hepatitis B
immunity post
vaccination
Micro Hepatitis B Surface 3 days This should be used
Antigen Screen to test for acute
Hepatitis B or
carriage. An
emergency 24hr
service is available
(contact on-call
technician out of
hours)
Micro Hepatitis C Antibody 3 days A positive sero-
Screen conversion will not
be detectable for 3-6
 months after
infection
Micro Hepatitis C PCR 5 days Abbott HCV
quantitative (viral
load): It is
recommended that
blood samples are
received in the
laboratory within 6
hrs. after being
drawn so that
centrifugation can be
done within time
period stated in
manufacturers
guidelines.
Micro Hep E IgG/M 5 days

Micro Hepatitis C PCR 5 days

Genotyping

Hist Her 2 testing of tissue 2-6 weeks Make request on

request form. Sent to
Royal Cornwall
Hospital for testing.
Molecul Hereditary Interpretative comment 14 days
ar Haemochromatosis given

Micro Herpes Simplex PCR 4 days

Micro Herpes simplex virus Send swab 5 days

PCR of lesion in
UTM (Red
liquid
Medium)

Special dietary
Biochem 5HIAA Plain 24 hour 14 days restrictions apply
4.7- 36.2 umol/24hr prior to collection.
Contact Duty
Biochemist for
advice.
Tietz textbook of clinical
chemistry, 2nd edition
Histo Histological Formalin 3-14 days Most specimens are
examination unless frozen reported within the 3-
section or 14 days
other period. Complex or
specialist specimens that need
request more consideration
or additional special
investigations will
take longer to report.
Micro HIV Antibody Screen 3 days Must be authorised
by the requesting
clinician or
counsellor - result
can be available
same day if urgent
Micro HIV PCR Viral Load 5 days EDTA sample must
arrive in the
laboratory as ASAP
after taking
H&I HLA-B*57:01 POS or NEG 7 days Linked with
hypersensitivity to
abacavir in HIV+
patients
H&I HLA-B27 POS or NEG 7 days Linked with
Ankylosing
Spondylitis and
Uveitis
H&I HLA-DQ2/DQ8 Interpretative comment 7 days Linked with Coeliac
given Disease

Biochem Homocysteine F <11.3, M <14.3 Unstable analyte.

umol/L, umol/L 14- 21 Blood must arrive in
days the laboratory within
On ice – 30 minutes, on ice.
contact Notify department in
laboratory in advance.
advance.
Referral Test to
Department of
Chemical Pathology
Bristol Royal
Infirmary

Source of reference
range - Department of
Chemical Pathology
Bristol Royal Infirmary
Micro HTLV type I + II 3 days
Antibody

Biochem Human Chorionic 0-5 U/L 24 hours Expected values

Gonadotrophin (beta) from kit insert.
Measured to confirm
pregnancy or as a
tumour marker in
patients with
gestational
trophoblastic disease
and non-
seminomatous germ
cell tumours
Immuno 3-Hydroxy-3-Methyl- NEG 14-21 days Referred test to
Glutaryl-CoA POS with clinical Institute of Molecular
Reductase antibodies interpretive comment medicine, Oxford
(HMGCoA)
Biochem Units – g/L 24hrs Caliper study values
*see patient report for for children under
specific gender & age 19yrs and expected
related ranges values from kit insert
IgA for adults.

Biochem IgG Units – g/L 24hrs Caliper study values

*see patient report for for children under
specific gender & age 19yrs and expected
related ranges values from kit insert
for adults.

Biochem IgM Units – g/L 24hrs Caliper study values

*see patient report for for children under
specific gender & age 19yrs and expected
related ranges values from kit insert
for adults.

Immuno IgE, Allergen Specific 0 28 days Results given as

RAST grade. Please
list all allergen tests
required.
Immuno IgE, Total 0 - 108 IU <7 days

Biochem IGF1 (Ins L Growth Units: ug/L Referral Test to

Factor 1) *See patient report for 14- 21 Southampton
specific gender & age days Specialist
related ranges Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital

Source of reference
range - Southampton
Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital
 NB: Some Paediatric
samples may be
referred to Royal
Surrey County
Hospital NHS Trust
Guildford.
Biochem IGFBP3 Units: mg/L 28 days Referral Test to SAS
*See patient report for Peptide Hormone
age related ranges Section
Clinical Laboratory
Royal Surrey County
Hospital

Source of reference
range - SAS Peptide
Hormone Section
Clinical Laboratory
Royal Surrey County
Hospital

Immuno IgG Sub-Classes age related 14 days

Molecul IgH B cell clonality Interpretative comment 14 days

ar given

Haem IM Screen POS/NEG comment 3 days Gold top sample

given viable for up to 8
days.

Histo Immunofluorescence In time for Reference should be

(IMF) - the next made to special
skin/mucosal Dermatolo notes in
biopsies gy CPC 'Immunofluorescenc
Meeting e (IMF) on skin and
(following mucosal
the date of biopsies' section
the biopsy)
Immuno Immunophenotyping <7 days Also known as 'cell
for Leukaemia markers', please
give as much clinical
information as
possible, especially
whether acute or
chronic leukaemia
suspected.
Micro Influenza A Antibody 5 days Adequate clinical
Screen information must be
given to ensure
appropriate tests are
performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute samples
may be held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least 14
days into illness).
Micro Influenza B Antibody 5 days Adequate clinical
Screen information must be
given to ensure
 appropriate tests are
performed,
particularly onset
date. Acute samples
may be held to await
receipt of
convalescent
samples (at least 14
days into illness).
Hcoag INR See BSH guidelines on 24 hours Non anti-coagulated
warfarin dosing patient Ratio

Biochem Insulin Results are dependent 28 days Unstable Hormone.

upon plasma glucose Blood must arrive in
concentrations: laboratory within 15
On ice 1. Normal fasting minutes, on ice.
levels <10 mU/ Notify department in
advance.
2. Hypoglycaemia
(glucose <2.5mmol/L) Glucose
<5 mU/L concentration
required for referral.
3. Severe
hypoglycaemia Referral Test to
(glucose <1.5 Southampton
mmol/L)<2 mU/L Specialist
Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital

Source of reference
range - Southampton
Specialist Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Immuno Insulin POS/NEG Referred test to
Autoantibodies Positive results with 14-21 days Protein Reference
interpretative comment Unit, Sheffield
Immuno Insulinoma-like Units U/ml Referred test to Dept
Antigen 2 antibodies POS/NEG of Immunology, R,D
(IA2) Positive results with & E, Exeter
interpretative comment
Source of reference
range Dept of
Immunology, R,D & E,
Exeter
Neuro Intra-operative Send sample Less than Arrange with
diagnosis -Frozen in dry pot 1 hour laboratory prior to
section/brain smear taking sample - tel
extn 54408 . See
notes in 'Sending
High Risk
Specimens' section if
patient is known, or
suspected, to be an
infection hazard.
Immuno Intrinsic Factor POS/NEG 14 days Referred test to Dept
Antibodies Positive comments Haematology,
with interpretative Torbay Hospital
comment
Molecul inv(16) in AML Interpretative comment 7 days Must arrive in
ar given laboratory as soon
as possible
Biochem Iron Units – umol/L 24 hours Primarily indicated in
*See patient’s report the investigation
for specific gender & of suspected iron
age related ranges overload.

Caliper study values

for children under 19
years and expected
values from kit insert
for adults.
Histo Iron (Dry weight) Dry container 6 weeks Annotate 'DRY IRON
WEIGHT REQUEST'
on request
form. Place
specimen dry in wide
mouth
container. DO NOT
ADD FORMALIN.
Specimen sent away
for testing.
Immuno Islet Cell Antibodies POS/NEG Referred test to
Positive results with 14-21 days Protein Reference
interpretative comment Unit, Sheffield
Molecul JAK2 in MPN Interpretative comment 14 days
ar given

Blood Kleihauer Test Same day

Bank

Pink
Biochem Lactate (Blood 0.5-2.2 mmol/L 24 hours Unstable, blood must
Lactate CSF) 1.1-2.4 mmol/L (CSF) come to the
laboratory as soon
as possible

Blood - Expected
values from kit
insert.

CSF - Adult
reference interval
from previous Roche
assay.

CSF - 'This assay

has not been fully
validated for
measurement on
fluids'
Biochem Lamotrigine 3-15 mg/L Referral Test to TDM
14- 21 Unit
days Chalford St Peter
Chesham Lane
Buckinghamshire

Source of reference
range - TDM Unit
Chalford St Peter
Chesham Lane
Buckinghamshire

See Therapeutic
Drug monitoring
 section.
Biochem LDH (Lactate Adult (19+ years) 125- 24 hours Caliper study values
Dehydrogenase) 200 U/L for children under 19
*See patient’s report years and expected
for specific gender & values from kit insert
age related ranges for adults.
Biochem LDL – Cholesterol Units – mmol/L 24 hours Calculated from
cholesterol,
triglyceride and HDL
Biochem Lead 0.1 – 35 ug/100ml 7-14 days Referral Test to
Department of
Clinical Chemistry
Northern General
Hospital

Source of reference
range - Department of
Clinical Chemistry
Northern General Hospital
Biochem LH (Luteinising Male 0.6-12.1 24 hours Expected values
Hormone) Female depends on from kit insert.
ovulation cycle or post
menopausal.
* See patient report for
specific ranges
Biochem Lipase Adult (19+yrs) 8 – 24hrs Caliper study values
78U/L up to 19yrs, expected
*see patient report values from kit insert
for specific gender & for adults
age related ranges
Biochem Lithium 0.4-1.0 mmol/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
section.

Steady state lithium

12 hours concentrations
Post-dose should be in the
range 0.4-1.0
mmol/L. Samples
should be drawn at
least 12 hours after
the last dose. The
minimum
requirement for
lithium level
monitoring is every
three months with
measurement of
thyroid and kidney
function every six
months.

Pathology Harmony
reference interval.
Biochem Profile 2 See individual test 24 hours Term usually applied
Liver Function Tests details. inappropriately to
indicate a request for
total protein,
albumin, bilirubin,
ALP and ALT
globulin
Immuno Liver Kidney POS/NEG 7 days
Microsomal
Antibodies
Loss of hetrozygosity 14 days Tissue provided by
Molecul at chromosomes 1p Neuropathology.
ar and 19q in Bloods to be sent to
oligodendrogliomas 10ml EDTA Molecular Biology.
blood
Hcoag Low Dose Heparin Interpretative 24 hours Contact laboratory
Assay (Clexane) or comment given prior to taking
anti- Xa assay. sample - ext.33244
or 33245. Sample
must be taken 3
hours post dose
Hcoag Lupus Anticoagulant Ratio <1.2 7 days Please book with
Screen laboratory - Ext
33244 or 33245
Send 2 x
citrate
samples

plus 1 gold
(for ACL)
Micro Lyme Screening <3 days

DCL and Lyme Testing CSF This test is

Micro performed by the
Rare and Imported
Pathogens
Laboratory (PHE).
Please send:
1. CSF sample:
Send one
bottle to DCL
requesting albumin
and total
immunoglobulin
Send
another bottle (>3ml)
to Microbiology
requesting cell count
and storage pending
receipt of completed
Lyme request form
(reference laboratory
requires at least
2mls, and cell count
must be performed
first – if other testing
is also required then
please specify on
request and ensure
sufficient volume of
CSF sent).

2. Serum
sample on same day
to DCL requesting
albumin and total
 immunoglobulin

3. Separate
serum sample on
same day to
Microbiology
(requesting storage
pending receipt of
completed Lyme
request form). If
serum Lyme
antibodies have not
already been
performed, these
can be requested on
this sample.

Requester must
come to
Microbiology to
complete a Lyme
referral form,
including the albumin
and total
immunoglobulin
results for both
serum and CSF. On
receipt of the
completed request
form we will forward
the stored CSF and
serum to RIPL
reference laboratory
for Lyme testing.
H&I Lymphocytotoxic Reported as HLA Routine samples
Antibody Screen specificities with 14- 21 collected every 1
normalised MFI. days month. Additional
samples should be
Donor specific sent 2 weeks after
antibodies requests as blood transfusion or
interpretative infections. Use this
comments test to request Donor
Specific Antibody
which can be
performed urgently
after contacting the
H&I lab 52390
Immuno Lymphocytotoxic <7 days For renal transplant.
Crossmatch Must be booked with
Immunology lab
x4 52293

Hist Lymphoma Studies 3-14 days Reference should be

made to special
notes in
histopathology
section. Complex or
specimens that need
more consideration
or additional special
investigations will
 take longer to report.
Immuno M2 Mitochondrial POS/NEG 7 days
Antibodies

Biochem Magnesium 0-4 weeks : 0.6 – 1.0 24 hours Source of range –

mmol/L Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
>4 weeks : 0.7-1.0
mmol/L
Haem Malarial Parasite 24 hours Contact laboratory -
Screen Ext 33244 or
33245.Samples must
be treated as urgent.
Please give details
of travel. Reference
should be made to
special notes in
haematology section
Immuno Mast Cell Tryptase 14 days Take sample straight
(MCT) away and then
repeat 1 hour later
Micro Measles IgG 5 days

Micro Meningococcal 5 days This test is referred

Antibody Screen to the HPA,
Meningococcal
Reference
Laboratory,
Manchester
Micro Meningococcal PCR 5 days This test is referred
to the HPA,
Meningococcal
Reference
Laboratory,
Manchester. See
also CSF for PCR
Biochem Mercury <20 nmol/L 14 days Referral Test to
Southampton Trace
Elements Unit.
Southampton
Sample General Hospital
required
depends on Source of reference
range - Southampton
exposure; Trace Elements Unit.
contact Duty Southampton General
Hospital
Biochemist
to discuss
Biochem Unexposed persons 14 days Referral Test to
< 2 nmol/mmol Southampton Trace
creatinine Elements Unit.
Urine Mercury Universal Southampton
Dental workers < 10 General Hospital
nmol/mmol creatinine
Source of reference
Industrial workers < 45 range - Southampton
nmol/mmol creatinine Trace Elements Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Neurological changes
> 50 nmol/mmol
 creatinine
Biochem Methadone Universal Source of range -
European Workplace
NEG/POS (300 ug/L 7 days Testing Threshold
cut-off) Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen

Biochem Methotrexate Units umol/L 24 hours Rarely required;

No range quoted. contact Duty
Biochemist to
arrange. Patients
taking the drug for
treatment of chronic
disorders require
regular full blood
count, renal and liver
profiles.
IMPORTANT:
Specimen must be
protected from light.

Molecul MGMT Methylation in Interpretative comment 14 days Tumour tissue

ar Glioma given provided by
Neuropathology
Department.
Biochem Monomeric Prolactin Male: 72 – 229 mIU/L 7 days Clinical Chemistry,
(Macroprolactin) Female:79-347 mIU/L 2010, 56 (3), 484-90

Molecul MPL exon 10 gene Interpretative comment 14 days

ar mutation in MPN given

Micro MRSA - PCR (nose Red Top 1 day Specified patient

swab) Swab without categories only -
Charcoal please contact the
laboratory if in doubt.
Sample must be
received before 1pm
to be processed on
that day.
Micro MRSA/MSSA triple Triple 2 days
swab screen - Nose, MRSA/MSS For sampling
throat, perineum. A Collection information, click
kit (using 3 here:
separate E-
swabs) E Swab.pdf
Micro Mumps IgG 4 days

Neuro Muscle Biopsies 14 days Reference should be

made to special
notes in the 'Muscle
and Nerve Biopsies'
section.
Immuno Muscle-specific POS/NEG Referred test to
tyrosine kinase Positive results with 14-21 days Institute of Molecular
(MuSK) antibodies interpretative comment Medicine, Oxford
Biochem Mycophenolate 1-3.5 mg/L 7-14 days Referral Test to IDM
Service, King’s
College Hospital
Pre-dose
Source of reference
range - IDM Service
King’s College Hospital
Micro Mycoplasma “First catch“ 7 days This test is currently
genitalium PCR urine referred to
samples. Micropathology,
Genital and Warwick.
rectal swabs
(red topped
UTM swab)

Micro Mycoplasma 5 days

Pneumoniae
Antibody Screen
Molecul MYD88 gene Interpretive comment 28 days This test is referred
ar mutation in WM given to RD&E, Exeter

Immuno Myelin Associated POS/NEG Referred test to

Glycoprotein Positive results with Oxford University
antibodies (MAGA) interpretative comment Hospital, Oxford
Immuno Myeloperoxidase POS/NEG 10 days
Antibody

Micro Neisseria 4 days First catch urine

gonorrhoeae PCR sample or self-taken
test vulvovaginal swab
Neuro Nerve Biopsies 4-6 weeks Reference should be
made to special
notes in the 'Muscle
and Nerve Biopsies'
section.
Immuno Neutrophil Function <7 days Must be booked with
Test (BURST) Immunology lab
52293
Special
Cyto Nipple Discharge Plastic slide 5 days* Reference should be
carrier. *>50% made to special
reported notes in
within 5 Cytopathology
days - section.
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Biochem Non-HDL cholestrol Units mmol/L 24 hours Calculated from HDL
and Cholesterol

Molecul Nucleophosmin Gene Interpretative comment 14 days

ar Mutation in AML given

Cyto Oesophageal Plastic slide 5 days* Reference should be

Brushings (malignant carrier and/or *>50% made to special
cells) in Cytospin reported notes in the
collection within 5 Cytopathology
Fluid in 10 ml days - section.
conical tube. more
 complex
cases may
take
longer.
Biochem Oestradiol Male <161 pmol/L 24 hours Expected values
Female varies with from kit insert
stage of menstrual
cycle or post
menopausal (+HRT)

* See patient report for

specific ranges
Immuno Oligoclonal Bands Interpretative comment 10 days
(CSF) -see CSF given
Biochem
Source of range -
European Workplace
Opiate Universal NEG/POS (300 ug/L 7 days Testing Threshold
cut off) Please request
individually when
requesting Urine
Drugs of Abuse
Screen
Biochem Interpretative comment
given.
The cut-offs used to
Opiate Identification define positive results
(Urine) Universal are given below 14 days Source of range -
Opiate Positive European Workplace
Testing Threshold
6-monoacetyl >10 ug/L
morphine
DHC >150 ug/L
Codeine >150 ug/L
Morphine >30 ug/L
Tramadol >50 ug/L and
metabolite area
>1800
6- >50 ug/L
acetylcodein
e
Biochem Organic Acids (urine) Universal Interpretative comment Referral Test to
random given 14- 21 Biochemical
days Genetics Unit
Pathology Sciences
Building
Southmead Hospital

24 hour specimens
are rarely indicated
for generalised
screening. Please
contact laboratory for
more information.
Biochem Osmolality (urine) Universal ra No range quoted. 24 hours Interpret with
ndom Units mm/kg reference to serum
osmolality and
hydration status.
The urine osmolality
should be interpreted
with knowledge of
the patient’s serum
osmolality and
hydration status.
 Urine collection
containers with
preservatives are
unsuitable for
analysis. (i.e. Boric
Acid)

Urine specimens
must be analysed
within 36 hours of
collection.
Biochem Osmolality 275-295mmol/kg 24 hours Serum specimens
(serum/plasma) must be analysed
within 36 hours of
or collection.
Source of range-
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals.
Immuno Ovarian Antibodies POS/NEG 15 days

Histo Ovarian tumours Dry container 3-14 days Reference should be

made to special
notes in the
'Gynaecological
(ovarian and
endometrial
tumours)'
section. Most
specimens are
reported within the 3-
14 days
period. Complex or
specimens that need
more consideration
or additional special
investigations will
take longer to
report.
Biochem Pancreatic 0-300 pmol/L 4-6 weeks Fasting sample
Polypeptide (also part required on ice.
of Gut Hormone x2 Contact Duty
Screen) On ice biochemist to
fasting arrange.

Referral Test to The

SAS Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry
& Medical Oncology
Charing Cross
Hospital

Source of reference
range - The SAS
Laboratories
Clinical Biochemistry &
Medical Oncology
Charing Cross Hospital

Biochem Paracetamol Sample should be

Units mg/L taken at least 4
Interpret relative to hours post ingestion.
time of ingestion using 24hrs 'Please note that
 standard charts e.g high concentrations
BNF of N-acetylcysteine
may interfere with
measurement of
paracetamol'
Immuno Paraprotein 5 days
Concentration

Immuno Parathyroid POS/NEG 14 days

Antibodies

Biochem Parathyroid Hormone Adult (19+ years) 1.6- 24 hours Must arrive in the
7.2 pmol/L *see laboratory within 6
Patient report for hours
specific age related
ranges. Caliper study values
for children and
expected values
from the kit insert for
adults
Immuno Paroxysmal Pos/Neg <7 days Positive result
Nocturnal indicates a clone of
Haemaglobinuria CD59 day deficient
red cells detected
Micro Parvovirus IgG 5 days
Antibody Screen

Micro Parvovirus IgM 5 days

Antibody Screen

Cyto Pericardial Fluid 25ml white 5 days* Reference should be

top universal *>50% made to special
reported notes in the
within 5 Cytopathology
days - section.
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Cyto Peritoneal Fluid 25ml white 5 days* Reference should be
top universal *>50% made to special
reported notes in the
within 5 Cytopathology
days - section.
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Hcoag PFA-100 Interpretative comment 24 hours Contact laboratory
given prior to taking
samples - Ext 33244
2 samples or 33245
required

Biochem Phenobarbitone 10-40 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic

Drug Monitoring
Section
Pre-dose
 Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Phenytoin 5-20 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section
Pre-dose
Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Phosphate 16+yrs: 0.8-1.5 mmol/L 24 hours Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
*see Patient report for reference intervals
specific age related
reference ranges in
children.
Haem Plasma Viscosity 1.39-1.70 mPas 2 days

Hcoag Platelet Aggregation Interpretative 24 hours Contact laboratory

studies comment given prior to taking
samples - Ext 33244
x6 or 33245 Follow on
testing may be
referred to Oxford
Haemophilia and
Thrombosis Centre.
Cyto Pleural Fluid 25ml white 5 days* Reference should be
(malignant cells) top universal *>50% made to special
reported notes in the
within 5 Cytopathology
days - section.
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.
Immuno Pneumococcal >20mg/ml is protective 14 days
Antibodies (> 40 mg/ml if post
splenectomy)
Micro Polyoma (BK) Virus 5 days

Biochem Porphyrin Samples of blood,

(faecal) urine (plain
container) and
Universal < 200 nmol/g dry 14-28 days faeces should be
Stool weight sent protected from
the light, preferably
collected when
patient is
symptomatic (acute
forms)

Referral Test to
Department of
Medical
Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales
 Source of reference
range - Department of
Medical Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales

Biochem Porphyrin Universal Interpretative comment 14-28 days Samples of blood,

(urine) given urine (plain
container) and
faeces should be
sent protected from
the light, preferably
collected when
patient is
symptomatic (acute
forms)

Referral Test to
Department of
Medical
Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales

Source of reference
range - Department of
Medical Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales.
Biochem Porphyrin (whole Plasma porphyrin 14-28 days Samples of blood,
blood) screen – increased/not urine (plain
increased container) and
faeces should be
Red blood cell sent protected from
porphyrin screen – the light, preferably
Pos/Neg collected when
patient is
Red blood cell total symptomatic (acute
porphyrin – 0.4 – 1.7 forms)
umol/L
Referral Test to
Department of
Medical
Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales

Source of reference
range - Department of
Medical Biochemistry and
Immunology
University Hospital of
Wales.
Mortuar Post Mortem Up to 3 Consent required.
y Examination months See Anatomical
dependant Pathology (Mortuary
on the section)/Requesting
material a consented
retained autopsy.
Biochem Potassium 16 years+ 24 hours Analysis affected by
3.5-5.3 mmol/L *see Haemolysis.
Patient report for
paediatric ranges. Specimens older
than 12hrs will not
be tested.

Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals.
Biochem Procalcitonin 0-0.5 ug/L 24 hours Reference interval
taken from Vidas kit
insert
Biochem Progesterone No reference range 24 hours If sample taken 7
quoted days before a period,
a progesterone
Units: nmol/L concentration <15
nmol/L indicates that
ovulation has not
occurred; >30
nmol/L indicates that
ovulation has
occurred.
Biochem Prolactin Male 73-407 24 hours Expected values
Female 109-557 mIU/L from kit insert

Biochem Protein (urine) Plain 24hr 0-0.12g/24hr 24 hours

Biochem Protein Adult (19+ years) 60- 24 hours For urine protein see
80 g/L *see Patient urine section
report for specific age
related ranges.
Hcoag Protein C 70-130 % 14 days Contact Consultant
Haematologist (part
of thrombophilia
screen)
Hcoag Protein S 65-140 % 14 days Contact Consultant
(Free Protein S) Haematologist (part
of thrombophilia
screen). Follow on
testing may be
referred to Royal
Free Hospital,
London -
Haemophilia centre
and Haemostasis
Unit
Immuno Proteinase 3 POS/NEG 14 days
Antibodies

Biochem PSA 40-49 years 24 hours Ranges sourced

0-2.5 ug/L from journal : Serum
50-59 years Prostate-Specific
0-3.5 ug/L Antigen in a
60-69 years Community-Based
0-4.5 ug/L Population of
70-79 years Healthy Men
0-6.5 ug/L Establishment of
Age-Specific
Reference Ranges,
JAMA.
1993;270(7):860-
864.
doi:10.1001/jama.19
 93.03510070082041
Haem Pyruvate Kinase No longer - - Contact laboratory
offered- Ext 33244 or 33245
contact lab if
required
Micro Quantiferon TB Test Contact lab 7 days Same day sample
52376/ delivery required
01752 before 16.30 - Read
792376 for kit insert carefully for
tubes sample volume and
handling
Haem Red Cell Enzyme Variable, depending on 14 days Contact lab on Ext
Assays enzyme assayed 33244 or 33245
x2 before taking
sample. This test is
referred to King’s
College Hospital,
London. Note that a
G6PD deficiency
screen is also
available.
Haem Red Cell Membrane Interpretative 14 days Contact lab on Ext
studies comments given 33244 or 33245
before taking sample
This test is referred
to King’s College
Hospital, London.
Haem Red Cell Osmotic 3 days Contact laboratory
Fragility for an appointment -
Ext 33244 or 33245
Histo Renal Biopsy Provided by 3-14 days BMS attendance at
BMS on renal biopsies is by
attendance arrangement.
at the biopsy. Telephone the
Alternatively laboratory 52362. A
biopsies may BMS will attend if
be possible; this may be
transported difficult over the
direct to the lunchtime period
lab in saline 12.30 – 13.30.
soaked (Biopsies may be
gauze for transported direct to
examination the laboratory for
and transfer examination, in
to the correct cases of
containers. emergency).
Biopsies must be
received before
16.00 to ensure
processing
overnight.
Biochem Renal Calculus Universal Interpretative comment 6 weeks Referral Test to
(stone) given University College
London Hospitals
Biochem Renin 0 – 7 days 4 – 340 mU/L 21-28 days Measure with renin
>7 days – 1yr 4 – 190mU/L
>1yr – 11yrs 4 – 85 mU/L to determine
>11yrs – 15yrs 4 – 75 mU/L renin:aldosterone
ratio.
Adults:
Supine 2 – 30 mU/L
Ambulant 3 – 40 mU/L
Unstable hormone;
blood must arrive in
laboratory with 30
 minutes. Notify
Department in
advance.

Referral Test to
Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton
General Hospital.

Source of reference
range - Southampton
Endocrine Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Micro Respiratory Antigen Aspiration 1 day
Screen - Adeno tube
Micro Respiratory Antigen Aspiration 1 day
Screen - Flu A tube
Micro Respiratory Antigen Aspiration 1 day
Screen - Flu B tube
Micro Respiratory Antigen Aspiration 1 day
Screen - Paraflu tube
Micro Respiratory Antigen Aspiration 1 day
Screen - RSV tube
Micro Respiratory PCR Send throat 1 day
swab in UTM
(Red liquid
Medium)

Haem Reticulocytes 30-120 *109/L 24 hours

Biochem 0 – 30 IU/ml 24hrs A negative Rhf does

not exclude
rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid Factor A positive Rhf can be
seen in rheumatoid
arthritis, infection,
inflammation and
healthy individuals.
Reference intervals
are sourced from the
Kit insert
Micro Rickettsia Antibody 5 days This test is referred
Screen to HPA, CAMR

Micro Rubella IgG Serology 3 days

Screen

Micro Rubella IgM Serology 5 days Send sample 4 days

Screen after onset of rash

Biochem Salicylate Units: mg/L 24 hours

No range quoted.

Immuno Salivary Gland POS/NEG 14 days

Antibodies

Immuno Salivary IgA Universal 5 days

Micro Schistosoma 14 days This test is referred
Antibody Screen to the Hospital for
Tropical Diseases,
London
Immuno Scleroderma panel POS with clinical 14 days – Referral test to Bird
(SCLER1) interpretive comment up to 12 Institute for
NEG with panel list weeks Rheumatic
Diseases, Bath
Biochem Selenium < 16 yrs – 35 -113 14 days Referral Test to
umol/L Southampton Trace
> 16 yrs – 70-130 Elements Unit.
Blue trace umol/L Southampton
metal. General Hospital

Source of reference
range - Southampton
Trace Elements Unit.
Southampton General
Hospital
Immuno Semen analysis Collect pot 10 days By appointment
(fertility) and basis only – contact
instructions lab – see instruction
from GP sheet.
Immuno Serum Protein Interpretative comment 5 days
Analysis given

Biochem Sex Hormone F 16-49yrs 24 hours Reference intervals

Binding Globulin 14.7-122.5 nmol/L taken from Abbott
F 50yrs and older Product Alert notice
16.7-124.4 nmol/L – September 14th;
M 16-49yrs 2015
16.2-68.5 nmol/L
M 50yrs and older
13.7-69.9 nmol/L
Haem Sickle cell screen POS/NEG will 3 days* Contact laboratory if
include FBC & patient is pre-op -
haemoglobinopathy Ext 33244 or 33245 *
screen Can be performed
urgently
Biochem Sirolimus Renal transplant 7 days Source of range –
patients: Southmead Hospital
First 6 months
Trough/Pre- maintain at 10-15μg/L.
dose After 6 months
maintain at 5-10μg/L.
Histo Skin for 21 days Reference should be
Immunofluorescence made to special
(IMF) notes in
'Immunofluorescenc
e (IMF) on skin and
mucosal
biopsies' section
Neuro Skin biopsy for small 14 days Arrange with lab
fibre neuropathy prior to sending on
ext 54408 and see
special notes in 'Skin
biopsies for
Intraepidermal Nerve
Fibre Density'
section.
Biochem Sodium 133-146 mmol/L 24 hours Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Immuno Specific IGG to Bee 14 days
Venom

Immuno Specific IGG to Wasp 14 days

Venom

Cyto Sputum (malignant Wide Mouth 5 days* Reference should be

cells) containing *>50% made to special
an equal reported notes in the
volume of within 5 Cytopathology
cytospin days - section.
collection more
fluid. complex
cases may
take
longer.
Micro Sputum Culture - Sterile wide up to 12
Mycobacteria mouthed weeks
container
Micro Sputum Culture - Sterile wide 3 days
Routine mouthed
container
Micro Sputum Mycobacteria Sterile wide 1 day
- Microscopy mouthed
container
Micro Staphylococcal 5 days
Serology

Micro Streptococcal 5 days

Serology

Immuno Striated Muscle POS/NEG 14 days

Antibodies

Micro Swab Cervical Pink top E- 4 days

Culture swab
Micro Swab Cervical Pink top E- 4 days
Gonococcal Culture swab
Micro Swab Ear - Culture 4 days Place the swab in
Orange the ear canal. Rotate
Swab / Wire gently.
Stem
Micro Swab High Vaginal Pink top E- 4 days
Culture swab
Micro Swab High Vaginal Pink top E- 1 day
Microscopy swab
Micro Swab Mouth 2 days
Pink top E-
swab
Micro Swab MRSA Screen Pink top E- 2 days Please state the
swab name of the site in
the clinical details
and on the
specimen.
Micro Swab Rectal - Pink top E- 4 days
Gonococcal Culture swab
Micro Swab Throat - Pink top E- 4 days
Gonococcal Culture swab
Micro Swab throat – routine Pink top E- 4 days
culture swab
Micro Swab urethral – Orange swab 4 days
gonococcal culture / wire stem
Micro Swab 'Wound' and Pink top E- 4 days Please state the
for other sites not swab name of the site in
stated -see separate the clinical details
Microbiology test list and on the specimen
Micro Swab Eye - Eye Contact lens, 5 days Tested by PCR.
Acanthamoeba corneal Laboratory supplies
swab, sterile sterile dry swabs and
eye swab. universal containers.
Micro Swab Wound - Eye Pink top E- 2 days
Routine Culture swab
Biochem Sweat Test (sweat
chloride) Contact Duty
Macroduct *See patient report for 24hr Biochemist to
collection specific age related discuss
tubing ranges Guidelines for the
Performance of the Sweat
Test for the Investigation of
Cystic Fibrosis in the UK
v.2
Micro Syphillis Antibody 3 days
screen

Immuno T cell Subsets <7 days Includes CD4 counts

for HIV+ patients,
CD3 or CD19 counts
for immunotherapy
(ring 52293 for
urgent results)
Molecul t(11;14) in mantle cell Interpretative comment 14 days
ar lymphoma given

Molecul t(14;18) in follicular Interpretative comment 14 days

ar lymphoma given

Molecul t(15;17) in AML Interpretative comment 14 days Must arrive in

ar given laboratory as soon
as possible
Molecul t(8;21) in AML Interpretative comment 14 days Must arrive in
ar given laboratory as soon
as possible
Biochem Tacrolimus Renal transplant Measured Monday,
patients: 72hrs Wednesday and
Initially maintain at 10- Friday
Trough/ Pre- 15μg/L. European consensus target
concentrations for Renal
dose After 8 weeks maintain transplant patients
at 5-10μg/L.
Biochem TAU Protein (Beta 2 See CSF-
Transferrin, CSF) Tau protein
Molecul TCR Beta Clonality Interpretative comment 14 days Must arrive in
ar given laboratory as soon
as possible
Molecul TCR Gamma Interpretative comment 14 days
ar Clonality given

Biochem Teicoplanin Interpretative 7 days Referral Test to

comment given Antimicrobial
Reference
Laboratory
Department of
Microbiology
 Southmead Hospital

Pathology test list (continued)

Pathology Test List

Immuno Testicular NEG Referral test to
Antibodies POS with clinical 14-21 days Protein Reference
interpretive comment Unit, Sheffield
Biochem Testosterone F 16-49yrs 0.5-1.7 24 hours Reference intervals
nmol/L taken from Abbott
F 50yrs and older 0.5- Product Alert notice –
1.2 nmol/L September 14th, 2015
M 16-49yrs 8.8-27.9
nmol/L
M 50yrs and older 8.6-
23.4 nmol/L
Haem Thalassaemia Interpretative 14 days Contact lab on Ext
Screen comments given 33244 or 33245
before taking sample
Sometimes samples
may need to be
referred to King’s
College Hospital,
London for
genotyping.

Biochem Theophylline 10-20 mg/L 24 hours See Therapeutic

Drug Monitoring
Section.

Source of range –
Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
Biochem Thiopurine Methyl Normal 35 -79 7 -14 days Request form must
Transferase nmol/gHb/hour indicate intention to
commence patient on
Low 6 -34 aziothioprine
nmol/gHb/hour
Referral Test to
Deficient <6 Clinical Biochemistry
nmol/gHb/hour Department
City Hospital

Source of reference
range - Clinical
Biochemistry Department
City Hospital

Micro Threadworm Micro Sellotape 1 day If sellotape not

scopy impression available then use
of anal moistened perianal
margin swab submitted in
attached to few mls of saline.
slide
Hcoag Thrombophilia 14 days All requests must be
Screen authorised by
Consultant
x4 Haematologist.
Contact laboratory for
sample requirements
- Ext 33244 or 33245
 x2 bottles
Biochem Thyroglobulin Units: ug/L 48rs Useful in monitoring
Where applicable, patients with thyroid
interpretative comment cancer, sometime
given. confused with “thyroid
The Beckman auto-antibodies”
reference interval for Source of range - expected
values from Beckman kit
thyroglobulin in a insert.
euthyroid individual is
1.6 to 50 ug/L
Biochem Anti-thyroglobulin Units: iu/ml 48 hours Paired request with
Antibodies Where applicable, Thyroglobulin
interpretative comment
given. Useful in monitoring
patients with thyroid
cancer, sometime
confused with “thyroid
auto-antibodies”

Biochem Thyroid Function *see Patient report for 24 hours TSH in all patients,
Tests specific age related thyroid hormones as
(Profile 8) ranges. see TSH, FT4. appropriate according
Request FT3 to clinical details
separately.
Biochem Anti-Thyroid POS/NEG 24 hours Expected values
peroxidase (Thyroid Units IU/ml from kit insert
Peroxidase
Antibody/anti TPO)
Biochem Thyroid Stimulating Adults (19+ yrs) - 0.35- 24 hours Caliper study values
Hormone 4.94 mIU/L for children and
expected values from
*see Patient report for kit insert for adults.
specific age related
ranges.
Micro Tip Culture eg line, Sterile wide 2 days Please state the
wire, tube mouthed name of the site in
container the clinical details
and on the specimen.
Micro Tissue Sterile wide up to 12
Mycobacteria - mouthed weeks
Culture container
Micro Tissue Sterile wide 1 day
Mycobacteria - mouthed
Microscopy container
Micro Tissue Routine - Sterile wide 4 days Under aseptic
Culture mouthed conditions transfer
container material to a sterile
universal container
that does not contain
formalin as this
inactivates pathogens
very rapidly.
Micro Tissue Routine - Sterile wide 1 day
Microscopy mouthed
container
Immuno Tissue POS/NEG 10 days For coeliac disease
Transglutaminase
Anti
H&I Tissue Type, HLA 7 days
Class I and Class II
3x
edta
H&I Tissue Type, HLA 7 days Usually for disease
Class I only association requests
3x
edta
H&I Tissue Type, HLA 7 days Usually for disease
class II only association requests
3x
edta
Biochem Tobramycin Units mg/L 24 hours Trough level should
be taken immediately
before a dose. Peak
should usually be
taken an hour after a
dose. State drug
regime and time of
last dose on sample.

When Tobramycin is
being given once daily,
a trough level of
>1mg/L indicates the
need to increase the
interval between
doses.
Further advice is
available via the on
call microbiologist via
30010 or bleep via the
switchboard

Biochem Total Protein Adult (19+yrs) 60-80 24 hours Caliper study values
g/L. for children and
Pathology Harmony
*see Patient report for reference interval for
specific age related adults.
ranges.
Micro Toxocara Canis 14 days This test is referred to
Antibody Screen the Hospital for
Tropical Diseases,
London
Micro Toxoplasma 3 days
Antibody Screen

Biochem Transferrin Units: g/L 24 hours Caliper study values

for children and
*see patient report for
specific age related expected values
ranges. from kit insert for
adults.

Biochem Transferrin 16-45% 24hrs Reference source:

Saturation Upper limit from
EASL Clinical Practice
Guideline for
haemochromatosis.
Please note that the
lower limit is under
review pending new
National Guidelines
 being published.
Biochem Triglyceride Adult (19+yrs) 0.4-1.7 24 hours Caliper study values
mmol/L for children and
*see patient report for expected values
specific age related from kit insert for
ranges. adults.
Triglyceride
concentration > 12
mmol/L indicates
severe
hypertriglyceridaemi
a and a high risk of
pancreatitis

Biochem Troponin I F: +15days : 3-16ug/L 24 hours Sample should be

M: +15days: 3-34 ng/L taken at least 6 hours
after the onset of
*see patient reports for worst chest pain
age related reference
ranges in children Neonatal reference
<15days old. interval from the
Caliper study and
expected values for
adults taken from kit
insert.

Troponin I >34 ng/L in

males and >16 ng/L
in females is
indicative of
myocardial damage,
but not its cause.
Note that elevated
Troponin I
concentrations may
be seen in conditions
other than ACS. For
exclusion of ACS
samples should be
taken at least 3-6
hours after the time of
worst chest pain.
Biochem Tumour markers Please Please phone Duty
phone Duty Biochemist to discuss
Biochemist
to discuss
marker
Micro Ulcer swab Pink top E- 2 days Please state the
swab name of the site in
the clinical details
and on the specimen.
Biochem Urea Adults/16+ yrs: 2.5-7.8 24 hours Source of range –
mmol/L Pathology Harmony
reference intervals
*see patient report for
specific age related
ranges.
Biochem Urate (Uric Acid) F: Adult (19+yrs) 140 – 24hrs Caliper study values
360 umol/L for children and
M:Adult (19+yrs) 220 - Pathology Harmony
430 umol/L reference interval
*see patient report for
for adults.
specific age related
ranges
Cyto Urine (malignant 25ml white 5 days* Reference should be
cells) top universal *>50% made to special notes
reported in the Cytopathology
within 5 section.
days -
more
complex
cases may
take
longer.>
Biochem Urine Albumin Urine 24hr 0-30 mg/24hr 24hrs Reference range :
plain Annals of Clinical
Biochemistry 50(4)
296–300
Biochem Urine Albumin: Universal e F < 3.5, M <2.5 24 hours Expected values from
creatinine ratio arly am mg/mmol test kit. It is not
appropriate to
perform this test on a
urine which tests
positive for protein
using a "dipstick"
Biochem Urine Calcium Plain rando No reference range 24 hours Random sample
m urine quoted. often helpful. Contact
Units: mmol/L duty biochemist to
discuss if required.
Biochem 24hr Urine Calcium 24hr plain 2.5-7.5 mmol/24hr 24hrs Tietz textbook of
urine Clinical Chemistry
Biochem Urine 24hr plain Urine 24hrs Adult and paediatric
Calcium:Creatinine urine Calcium:Creatinine ranges sourced:
ratio ratio – Adults <0.6
The values for children J.Paediatrics 123 (3)
quoted in the literature 393-7, Sep.93
vary considerably but
they are higher than
those seen in adults
and decline slowly with
increasing age. For
example-
<7mths <2.42
7-18 mths <1.69
19mths-6yrs <1.18
Micro Urine Chlamydia Sterile 3 days
Antigen PCR plastic
Universal
Biochem Referral Test to
Southampton
Urine Citrate (24 Plain 24 hr 1.52 – 7.00 14-21 days Specialist
hr) mmol/24hrs Biochemistry.
Southampton
General Hospital

Source of reference
range - Southampton
Specialist Biochemistry.
Southampton General
 Hospital
Biochem Urine Creatinine Urine 24hr No reference range 24hr
plain quoted.
Units: mmol/24hr
Micro Urine Sterile 1 day Fill container to the
Culture Routine plastic line. If low sample
universal volume (<5ml)
with boric remove the boric acid
acid crystals first.
Biochem Referral Test to
South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Urine Cystine (24hr) Plain 24hr Units: umol/24hrs 14-21 days Wythenshawe
Interpretative Hospital
comments given
Source of reference
range - South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe Hospital
Micro Urine Sterile 14 days Must arrive in
Cytomegalovirus plastic laboratory as soon as
universal possible.
Biochem Urine Drugs of Universal Interpretative comment 2-3 days It is essential to list all
Abuse Screen given drugs/medications on
the request form
Biochem Urine Ethanol Plain Units mg/dL 24hrs
(Alcohol) random UK Legal driving limit
urine for urine ethanol =
107mg/100ml.
Urine ethanol: To
convert mg/100ml to
mmol/L = x0.216
Hcoag Urine Haemosiderin Universal 3 days
Biochem Urine Kidney Stone Universal Urine Calcium, 6 weeks Referral Test to
Screen- consisting phosphate, urate – In South Manchester
of Urine Calcium, house. Pathology Services,
Phosphate, Urate, Wythenshawe
Chloride, Cystine Urine Cystine, Citrate Hospital
and oxalate. and Oxalate – referred
tests see individual Source of reference
test. range - South Manchester
Pathology Services,
Wythenshawe Hospital
Micro Urine Legionella Sterile 1 day Please contact
Antigen Detection plastic Laboratory on 52376
universal prior to submitting
with boric request.
acid
Biochem Urine Magnesium Plain No reference range 24 hrs Random sample
random quoted. often helpful. Contact
urine Units: mmol/L duty biochemist to
discuss if required.
Biochem 24hr Urine 24 hr Plain 2.4-6.5 mmol/24hr 24 hrs Pathology Harmony
Magnesium urine reference intervals
Biochem Normetadrenaline
Male <5.3 µmol/24hr
Female<4.3µmol/24hr
Source of range –
Metadrenaline Salford Hospital (NMT &
<2.0 µmol/24hr MT), 3-MT set according to
3-Methoxytyramine Clin Chem 2006, 52(11),
Urine 0-18 yrs <2.80 µmol/24hr 14 days 2060-4.
Metanephrines 24hr Plain 18-39 yrs <2.80 µmol/24hr Paediatric results are
(24hr) 40-60 yrs <2.60 µmol/24hr calculated as
>60 yrs <2.30 µmol/24hr
Catecholamine /
 Creatinine ratios and
interpreted on the
basis of reference
ranges (Ref: Reed et al.
Ann. Clin. Biochem. 1991,
28; 297 – 298)
Biochem Urine Microalbumin Universal e No reference range 24 hours It is not appropriate to
arly am quoted. perform this test on a
Units: mg/l urine which tests
positive for protein
using a "dipstick"
Micro Urine Microscopy Sterile 2 days
Routine Automated plastic
(Not CSU) universal
with boric
acid
Micro Urine Sterile up to12
Mycobacteria Cultu plastic weeks
re universal
with boric
acid
Biochem Urine Myoglobin Not 24 hours Suggest look for
available elevated creatine
kinase (CK) and
positive urine dipstix
for haem ("blood")
both of which support
a diagnosis of muscle
breakdown
(rhabdomyolysis)
Referral Test to
Biochem Southampton
Specialist
0.04 – 0.5 mmol/24hr Biochemistry.
Plain 24hr Interpretative 14-21 days Southampton
comments given General Hospita
Urine Oxalate Source of reference
(24 hr) range - Southampton
Specialist Biochemistry.
Southampton General
Hospital
Biochem A full specimen pot is
required and must be
received in lab as
Unit: pH 2hr soon as possible and
Urine pH Universal No reference range analysed with 2 hours
(FULL) given of collection.
Notify Duty
Biochemist in
advance, when
requesting this test.
Biochem Urine Phosphate Plain 24hr 15-50 mmol/24hr 24 hrs Pathology Harmony
range
Micro Urine Sterile Same day Please contact
Pneumococcal plastic Laboratory on 52376
Antigen universal prior to submitting
with boric request.
acid
Biochem Urine Potassium Plain 24hr 25-125 mmol/24hr 24 hrs Tietz textbook of
Clinical Chemistry
Biochem Specimen must be
analysed within 24hrs
of collection.
 Urine Pregnancy Universal POS/NEG 24hrs Boric Acid
(EMU) preservative
collection pot
unsuitable
Biochem Urine Protein Plain 24hr 0 - 0.3g/24hr 24 hours National Kidney
Foundation – Kidney
Disease Outcomes
Quality Initiative
recommendation
Biochem Urine Protein: Universal 2 <15 mg/mmol 24 hours Reference range –
Creatinine Ratio nd void am UK eCKD Guide
(not EMU) 2017
Biochem Urine Sodium Plain 24 40-220 mmol/24 hr 24 hours * Random sample
hr* also useful urinary
sodium >20mmol/L
makes sodium
deficiency unlikely
and is consistent with
adrenal failure and
with SIADH/chronic
hypodilution.

Reference source -
Tietz textbook of
Clinical Chemistry
Biochem Urine Toxicology Universal Interpretative comment N/A Referred to various
(Save) given specialist centres.

This analyses are

performed in
specialist centres and
results are not
available for
immediate
management of
patients. Samples will
be stored frozen
unless specifically
discussed with a
Consultant.
Biochem Urine Urate (Uric Plain 24hr 1.5-4.5 mmol/24hr 24hrs Pathology Harmony
Acid) range
Biochem Valproate 24 hours See Therapeutic
Drug Monitoring
Section. Pre-dose
Pre-dose sample required
Haem Variant Interpretative comment 14 days Contact lab on Ext
Haemoglobin given 33244 or 33245
identification before taking sample
Sometimes samples
may need to be
referred to King’s
College Hospital,
London for
genotyping and/or
IEF

Biochem Vancomycin Optimal range for pre- 24 hours Trough level should
dose is 10-20mg/L. be taken immediately
See guidelines on before a dose. Peak
Pre-dose intranet concerning should usually
how to dose be taken an hour
 vancomycin. Further after a dose. State
advice is available via drug regime and time
the on cal of last dose on
Microbiologist via sample.
30010 or bleep via
switchboard.
Biochem Vitamin A Reference ranges
provided by
Southmead Hospital
*See patient report for 14days Bristol (now Severn
specific gender & age Patholgy), taken
related ranges from: "Proceedings of the
Nutrition Society, 1988, 47,
181A. Thurnham DI, Flora
PS. (Adult ranges) & The
National Diet and Nutrition
Survey, London HMSO,
1995 and 2000 (childhood
ranges)." Paired
request with Vitamin
E
Biochem Vitamin B12 Adult (19+ years) 187- 24 hours Caliper study values
883 ng/L for children under 19
yrs and expected
*see patient report for values from the kit
specific age related insert for adults.
ranges
Biochem Vitamin D (total) <25 nmol/L: vitamin D 24 hours Ranges sourced from
deficient, suggest National
treatment. Osteoporosis
25-50 nmol/L: vitamin Guidelines
D insufficient, suggest
supplementation.
50-300 nmol/L:
adequate vitamin D,
although a
concentration
>75 nmol/L may be
optimal for bone
health.
>300 nmol/L: may
indicate vitamin D
toxicity.
Note: this test should
not be used to assess
vitamin D status in
patients taking
1a-
hydroxycholecalciferol
(alfacalcidol,
one-alpha)
Biochem Vitamin D2 and D3 No reference ranges Simultaneous
quoted measurement of
calcium, phosphate
and alkaline
phosphatase enables
better interpretation
of results.

24 hrs
Biochem Vitamin E Reference ranges
provided by
Southmead Hospital
Bristol (now Severn
 10.2 – 39.0µmol/L 14 days Patholgy), taken
from: "Proceedings of the
Nutrition Society, 1988, 47,
181A. Thurnham DI, Flora
PS. (Adult ranges) & The
National Diet and Nutrition
Survey, London HMSO,
1995 and 2000 (childhood
ranges)." Paired
request with Vitamin
A
Immuno Voltage Gated NEG 21 days Referred test to
Calcium Channel POS with clinical Institute of Molecular
Antibodies interpretive comment medicine, Oxford
Immuno Voltage Gated NEG 21 days Referred test to
Potassium Channel POS with clinical Institute of Molecular
Antibodies interpretive comment medicine, Oxford
Hcoag Von Willebrands 14 days All requests must be
screen authorised by
Consultant
x6 Haematologist.
Contact laboratory for
sample requirements
- Ext 33244 or 33245.
x2 Some follow on
testing may be
referred to UCL or
Oxford Haemophilia
and Thrombosis
Centre.
Biochem Xantho- See Bilirubin
chromia (CSF
bilirubin)
Biochem Zinc 11.4- 24.8 umol/L Haemolysed
specimens are
unsuitable for zinc
analysis.
24hrs Zinc is bound to
albumin; therefore,
haemostasis should
be avoided when
collecting the sample.
R.D. Eastman; Biochemical
Values in Clinical Medicine.
Immuno Zinc Transporter 8 Units U/ml Referred test to
antibody NEG Immunology Dept.,
POS with values in Royal Devon and
free text comment 14 days Exeter Hospital,
Exeter
Source of reference
range: Immunology Dept.,
Royal Devon and Exeter
Hospital, Exeter

Review Status
Reviewed December 2018
This page will be updated March 2019