directory of tests - hse.ie · specimen: random or 24 hr urine specimen turnaround: ed or urgent...
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MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 95 of 200
DIRECTORY OF TESTS Test marked with an (*) are accredited tests (to the ISO15189 standard (current edition)) performed by the Pathology Laboratory, Mayo University Hospital, as detailed in Scope Registration Number 207MT on the INAB website www.inab.ie
A ...................................................................................................................................... 96
C .................................................................................................................................... 117
D .................................................................................................................................... 130
E .................................................................................................................................... 132
F .................................................................................................................................... 136
G .................................................................................................................................... 140
H .................................................................................................................................... 144
J ..................................................................................................................................... 155
K .................................................................................................................................... 156
L .................................................................................................................................... 157
M ................................................................................................................................... 161
N .................................................................................................................................... 166
O .................................................................................................................................... 168
P .................................................................................................................................... 170
Q .................................................................................................................................... 179
R .................................................................................................................................... 180
S .................................................................................................................................... 182
T .................................................................................................................................... 185
U .................................................................................................................................... 191
V .................................................................................................................................... 193
W ................................................................................................................................... 196
X .................................................................................................................................... 197
Y .................................................................................................................................... 197
Z .................................................................................................................................... 198
List of Referral Locations ............................................................................................. 199
Each test within the test directory is colour coded for the appropriate accompanying
request form:
OTHER Laboratory Referral Tests
MUH Biochemistry Tests
MUH Blood Transfusion Requests
MUH Haematology Tests
MUH Microbiology Tests
MUH Histopathology
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 96 of 200
A
α Thalassaemia by Molecular Testing
Laboratory: Referred to Dept of Molecular Pathology, Kings College Hospital, London
SE54 9RS.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.viapath.co.uk/departments-and-laboratories/red-cell-centre-
molecular-diagnostics-laboratory
Specific Request Form available at:
http://www.viapath.co.uk/sites/default/files/upload/Molecular/LF-HAE-
PND132%20Molecular%20referral%20form.pdf
Acanthamoeba Molecular analysis (Amoebic Keratitis)
Laboratory: Medical Microbiology: - Referred to Micropathology Ltd., UK.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.micropathology.com/services-az.php
ACTH – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT)*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 2.7 mL blood in a 0.109m Sodium Citrate tube (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are
available).Same sample may be used for APTT, PT, Fibrinogen and D-
dimer.
Comment: Fresh sample required. Must fill bottle to mark.
Sample from patient on unfractionated heparin must be received within
1.5 hours of sample taking
Turnaround: 2 hours
Ref. Range: Adult: 23.5 – 30.5 seconds. Refer to report for age specific ranges.
Activated Protein C Resistance (APC-R)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Fresh specimen required. Must fill bottle to mark. Send immediately to
Coagulation Laboratory Mayo University Hospital .
Pre-analytical preparation required before referral.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 97 of 200
ADAMTS – 13m
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, UCL, London
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.ucl.ac.uk/haemostasis/adamts13-assays
Comment: Pre authorization with SPR and arrangement with Haematology
laboratory. Send immediately to Haematology Dept for pre-analytical
preparation before referral. Request form must be completed (available at
UCL link above)
Adenovirus / Rotavirus Antigen
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL);
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401.
Adrenaline / Noradrenaline / Dopamine (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Lab, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont Road, D9
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.beaumont.ie/media/LaboratoryUserManual1.pdf
Adenosine Deaminase
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Alanine amino Transferase (ALT)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Adult Male < 45 U/L Adult Female < 34 U/L
Albumin
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 0-4 days: 28 - 44 g/l
Adults: 35 – 52 g/l
Albumin (Urine) / Microalbumin
Laboratory: Biochemistry Laboratory, Roscommon University Hospital
Specimen: Urine in plain vacutainer – part of new BD urine collection system
Comment: Date of collection must be stated on the request form.
Turnaround: See RUH TAT
Ref. Range: Refer to report
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 98 of 200
Alcohol (Ethanol)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube if fresh (same day). Otherwise, fluoride
oxalate sample (grey bottle)
Comment: Do not use alcohol wipes. Analysis for medical use only
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days
Ref. Range: Not normally detected (<10 mg%)
Aldosterone - Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Laboratory, St James’s Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Alkaline phosphate (Alk Phos)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1-30d 75 - 316 U/L 48 – 406 U/L
30d-1Y 82 – 383 U/L 124 – 341 U/L
1-3Y 104 – 345 U/L 108 – 317 U/L
4 - 6Y 93 – 309 U/L 96 - 297 U/L
7 – 9Y 86 – 315 U/L 69 – 325 U/L
10 – 12Y 42 - 362 U/L 51 - 332 U/L
13 - 15Y 74 – 390 U/L 50 - 162 U/L
16 - 18Y 52 – 171 U/L 47 - 119 U/L
Adult 30 – 120 U/L 30 - 120 U/L
Allergen Specific IgE (Rast)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 99 of 200
Alpha-1-Antitrypsin
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
ALTERNATIVELY
Laboratory: Alpha-1-Foundation,
RCSI Building, Beamount Hospital, Dublin 9
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.alpha1.ie/doctors/testing
Comment: Alpha-1-antitrypsin subtypes also performed here, but not in Galway
University Hospital.
Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Phenotyping
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Alpha fetoprotein (AFP)
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Alpha-1-iduronidase (Screen for Hurlers Syndrome)
Laboratory: Referred to Willink Unit,
Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Pendlebury, Manchester M27 4HA
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cmft.nhs.uk/media/209835/lab%20handbook%202_0.doc
17-Alpha-OH-Progesterone >1 year old - Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment: Fresh specimen required. Must fill bottle to mark. Send immediately to
Biochemistry Laboratory or Specimen Reception Mayo University
Hospital . Pre-analytical preparation ( freezing)required before referral.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 100 of 200
17-Alpha-OH-Progesterone <1 year old - Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Laboratory, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital,
Crumlin, Dublin
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Comment: Fresh specimen required. Must fill bottle to mark. Send immediately to
Biochemistry Laboratory or Specimen Reception Mayo University
Hospital . Pre-analytical preparation( freezing)required before referral.
Aluminium
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Amikacin
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd,
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Amino Acids (Blood)
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory,
Children’s University Hospital, Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Amino Acids (Urine) – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory,
Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Ammonia
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: Paediatric: 1.0 mL Lithium heparin stasis free whole blood.
Adult: 4 mL EDTA sample or 7 ml Lithium Heparin sample
Comment: Please Inform and Transport to the laboratory immediately.
Turnaround: When advance notice has been given results should be ready in approx. 1
hour.
Out of Hours Availability: Senior member of Medical Staff (Consultant or
Registrar) must contact Medical Scientist on duty, via the switchboard,
giving details of urgent request prior to drawing blood.
Ref. Range: 0-4 weeks: 0 – 100 µmol/l,
> 4 weeks: 0-53 µmol/l
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 101 of 200
Amoeba antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London WCIE 6AU
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.uclh.nhs.uk/OurServices/ServiceA-
Z/PATH/PATHMICRO/PARA/Documents/Parasitology%20User%20Manu
al.pdf
Amphetamine
See “Toxicology Screen”
Amiodarone (Cordarone)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories,
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Amitriptyline (anti-depressant)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories,
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Amylase
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 22 – 80 U/L
Amylase (Urine) *
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: Random or 24 hr urine specimen
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 24 hr Urine: 0-410 IU/24hrs
Amyloid
Laboratory: Referred to National Amyloidosis Centre,
Royal Free Hospital, London, NW3 2QG (0044 207 433 2815)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/amyloidosis/nac/molecular-genetic-testing
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 102 of 200
Anaphylactic Shock: Post reaction work-up
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Refer to Tryptase and Histamine analysis
Androstendione
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories,
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Antenatal Serology
Laboratory: Referred to Galway University Hospital Blood & Tissue Establishment
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Antibody Investigation/Identification*
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion
Specimen: 2 X 6 mL EDTA K2E blood
Turnaround: Within 3 working days
Ref Range: N/A
Antibody Investigation/Identification
Laboratory: Referred to IBTS, St James’s Street, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.giveblood.ie/Old-Site-
Documents/Primary%20Specimen%20User%20Manual.pdf
Antibody Titration
Laboratory: Referred to IBTS, St James’s Street, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.giveblood.ie/Old-Site-
Documents/Primary%20Specimen%20User%20Manual.pdf
Anti IgA Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Laboratory, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield
Specimen Requirements: 5.0 mL blood in plain gel tube
Turnaround: approximately 6 weeks
Report: Positive/Negative
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 103 of 200
Anti-Acetylcholine Receptor Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories,
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment: Fresh specimen required. Must fill bottle to mark. Send immediately to
Biochemistry Laboratory or Specimen Reception Mayo University
Hospital . Pre-analytical preparation ( freezing)required before referral
Anti-Adrenal Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti Beta-2 Glycoprotein-1 Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, Galway University Hospital.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti Cardiolipin Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti CCP (Citrullinated Cyclic Peptide)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Centromere Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-C1q Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 104 of 200
Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)
See “Arginine Vasopressin”
Anti-D Quantitation
Laboratory: Referred to IBTS, St James’s Street, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.giveblood.ie/Old-Site-
Documents/Primary%20Specimen%20User%20Manual.pdf
Anti-dsDNA Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-ENA Screen (Extractable Nuclear Antigens: Sm/RNP/Ro/La/Scl-70/Jo-1)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Endomysial Antibodies (Coeliac Screen)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Ganglioside Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Gastric Parietal Cell Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-GBM Glomerular Basement Membrane (GBM) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 105 of 200
Anti-Gliadin Antibodies (Coeliac Disease)
Refer to Anti-Tissue TransGlutaminase (tTG) Antibodies
Anti-Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD) Antibodies – Sample must be frozen
immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Histone Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Insulin Antibodies (Sample must be frozen immediately)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Intrinsic Factor Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Islet Cell Antibodies – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Jo–1 Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 106 of 200
Anti-La (SS-B) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Liver Kidney Microsomal (LKM) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Mitochondrial Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-M2 Mitochondrial (Pyruvate Dehydrogenase) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti--MUSK Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Myeloperoxidase (MPO) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Neuromyelitis Optica Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 107 of 200
Anti-Neuronal Nuclear Cell (Hu Ri) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti Neutrophil Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Histocompatibility and Immunogenetic Dept, Blood and
Transplant Lab, Bristol.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://hospital.blood.co.uk/diagnostic-services/diagnostic-user-guides/
Comment: Pre authorisation with SPR and arrangement with laboratory. Sample
must reach Haematology before 11.00. Only submit samples Monday to
Wednesday for same day referral. Request Form must state neutrophil
count and history of medication.
Anti Nuclear Antibody (ANA)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Ovarian Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield
Specimen: 5.0 mL blood in plain gel tube
Turnaround: 3 weeks
Report: Positive/Negative
Anti-Pemphigus & Pemphigoid Autoantibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, St James Hospital, Dublin 12
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Anti-Phospholipid Antibodies
Refer to Anti Cardiolipin Antibodies
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 108 of 200
Anti-Platelet antibody investigation
Laboratory: Referred to Histocompatibility and Immunogenetic Dept, Blood and
Transplant Lab, Bristol.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://hospital.blood.co.uk/diagnostic-services/diagnostic-user-guides/
Comment: Refer to the request form located at NHSBT Filton (Bristol) Request form
(click on the link). The request form must also be completed for each
request
Anti-Proteinase 3 (PR3) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Purkinje Cell (Yo) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Ribosomal P Protein Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Ro (SS-A) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Salivary Gland Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Scl-70 (Topoisomerase 1) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 109 of 200
Anti-Skeletal (Striated) Muscle Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield
Specimen: 5.0 mL blood in plain gel tube
Turnaround: 3 weeks
Report: Positive/Negative
Anti-Sm (Smith) Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Soluble Liver Antigen (SLA) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Streptolysin-O (ASO)
Laboratory: Referred to Virology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Available in specific cases only and by prior arrangement with Prof.
Cormican, Medical Microbiology, Galway University Hospital.
Anti-Thrombin III (see Thrombophilia Screen)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Requests should be received in the laboratory within eight hours of
phlebotomy. Send immediately to Coagulation Laboratory. Pre-analytical
preparation required before referral. Details of anticoagulant therapy
required. Must fill bottle to mark.
Refer to the testing guidelines at St James Thrombophilia guidelines
(click on link) for details on thrombophilia testing
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 110 of 200
Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Tissue TransGlutaminase (tTG) Antibodies (Coeliac Screen)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-U1-RNP Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Anti-Voltage Gated Calcium Channel (VGCC) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Voltage Gated Calcium Potassium (VGKC) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Anti-Xa Level (Low M.W. Heparin Assay)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Requests should be received in the laboratory within one hour of
phlebotomy and should be taken 4 hours post heparin administration
unless otherwise arranged with Consultant Hematologist. State time of
the last heparin dose on the request form. Must fill bottle to mark. Send
immediately to Coagulation Laboratory. Pre-analytical preparation
required before referral.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 111 of 200
Apolipoprotein B
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Arginine Vasopressin
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment: Freeze plasma within 1 hour. Patients should avoid substances that
influence ADH secretion, i.e. nicotine, alcohol, caffeine, diuretics
Arsenic (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Ascitic Fluid - Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: 15 ml of fluid placed in prefilled 30 ml universal containing 15 mls of
Shandon Cytospin Collection Fluid (green fixative fluid) [Available from
the Histopathology Laboratory ext 2564]
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist.
Ascitic Fluid*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Fluid including clots in sterile universal container
Comment: If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities
Ascitic Fluid
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Tests: Glucose, 2.0ml Fluoride Oxalate.
Protein, LDH: 7.0ml plain gel tube or plain universal container.
Comment: If delay refrigerate@2-8°c
Turnaround: 3 hours approx.
Report: No reference ranges quoted.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 112 of 200
Aspartate amino Transferase (AST)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 0 – 4 days: 25-75 IU/L
5 days – 2 mths: 15-60 IU/L
Adult (male): <35IU/L
Adult (female): <31IU/L
Aspergillus antibodies (Farmers Lung)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Aspergillus fumigatus precipitins Avain antigens, Micropolyspora faenii, Mushroom
Picker’s disease antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Aspirates- Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: 15 ml of fluid placed in prefilled 30 ml universal containing 15 mls of
Shandon Cytospin Collection Fluid (green fixative fluid)
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist.
Atypical Pneumonia Screen
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401.
Autoantibody Screen
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Avian precipitans (Bird Fanciers/Bird Breeders disease)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 113 of 200
B
Bartholin’s Abscess*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Aspirate or swab using a sterile swab in agar. If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC
Comment: All specimens must specify N. gonorrhoea on request if required.
Turnaround: 3 days
Report: Culture report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate
sensitivities
Bartonella henselae antibodies (Cat scratch disease)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
BCR-ABL
Laboratory: Referred to CMD Laboratory, St James Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Pre authorization with SPR and arrangement with laboratory. Sample
must reach Haematology before 11.00. Only submit samples Monday to
Thursday for same day referral.
Bence - Jones proteins (Urine Free Light Chains)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Beta-hydroxybutyrate
See “Ketones”
Beta-2-Microglobulin
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Beta-2-Transferrin
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 114 of 200
Bicarbonate
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube. Bicarbonate only done on samples
received in Biochemistry unspun within 6 hrs. post phlebotomy.
Turnaround: ED or urgent specimen – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University
Hospital wards/OPD – 3 hours approx.
Ref. Range: 0 – 3 yrs 16-24 mmol/l
Adult 21-31 mmol/l
Bile Acids / Bile Salts
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Bilirubin – Conjugated
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: <3.4 μmol/L
Bilirubin – Total
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 0-1d 24-149 μmol/L
1-2d 58-197 umol/L
3-5d 26-205 umol/L
Adult 5-21 umol/L
Biopsies for Histological Examination
Laboratory: Histopathology
Specimen: Formalin fixed tissue.
Comment: Ensure the tissue is fully immersed in formalin.
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days
Report: Histopathological diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist.
Biotinidase– Sample must be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 115 of 200
Blood Culture
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: 8.0 -10.0 mL in BacTAlert Aerobic and Anaerobic vial, 1.0 -3.0 mL in
Paediatric vial. (For bacterial and fungal culture).
For Mycobacteria use 1.0 -5.0 mL in Myco/Lytic vial supplied by GUH –
Please phone Microbiology Dept GUH to arrange this test.
Comment: Delivery by Porter within 1 hour of venupuncture. Do not send by chute
system. Store on ward @ Room Temperature to await transport to lab. Do
not refrigerate. All request forms for blood cultures must be Date/time
stamped before being placed directly in the specified box in the
Department’s Warm Room.
Turnaround: 7 days for aerobic, anaerobic and paediatric vials. 14 days for query
endocarditis. Sooner for positive results.
Report: Any Growth.
Please Note: Please do not remove the small barcode label from the blood culture bottles.
Please do not cover the barcode label with the addressograph label.
Blood Film*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood, (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are available)
Comment: Blood films will be made, examined and reported on patients whose FBC
results satisfy the criteria laid down by this laboratory in the guidelines
‘Indications for blood film examination’. If a clinician specifically requests
a blood film, which falls outside of these guidelines this will also be
examined, where the request form indicates the agreed clinical details.
Specimen must be received within 2 hours of phlebotomy to avoid EDTA
changes on the blood film.
Turnaround: Where clinical details are supplied urgent requests for blood films will
receive immediate attention. Routine differentials are reported within 3 hrs.
Report: N/A
Blood Gases (pH, pCO2, pO2, Bicarbonate, Base Excess, Total CO2)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: Blood in a Li Heparin syringe/ lithium Heparin capillary. Must state if
venous, arterial, capillary or cord blood.
Comment: Must be analysed within 20 mins, contact Biochemistry and send
immediately.
Turnaround: 15 minutes
Ref. Range: Arterial: Venous:
pH 7.35 – 7.45 pH 7.32 – 7.42
pCO2 4.65 –5.98kPa pCO2 5.4 – 6.8 kPa
pO2 10.6 – 13.3 kPa pO2 2.7 – 5.3 kPa
HCO3 22.0 – 26.0 mmol/L HCO3 24.0 – 28.0 mmol/L
TCO2 23.0 – 27.0 mmol/L TCO2 25.0 – 29.0 mmol/L
BE -2.0 - +2.0 mmol/L BE -2.0 – +2.0 mmol/L
SHCO3 22.0 – 26.0 mmol/L SHCO3 22.0 – 26.0 mmol/L
Note: Point of Care blood gas analysers available in some wards. Restricted use, training and
passwords provided by biochemistry Lab.
Bone Marrow Examination
The facility to take Bone Marrow Samples is no longer available in Mayo
University Hospital. Patients are now referred to Galway University
Hospital.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 116 of 200
Bordetella pertussis antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Bordetella Species (Whooping cough / Pertussis) – Culture + PCR
Laboratory: Referred to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Comment: Pernasal Swab (available from Microbiology) must be in transport media
Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies (Lyme Disease)
Laboratory: Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Bronchial Brush Specimen- Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: Localize and sample lesion. Snip off tip of the sampling brush and deposit in
twist top leak proof 30mL Universal containers containing Shandon
Cytospin Collection Fluid (green fixative solution)
Comment: Indicate clinical history on test requisition, and the specific site sampled.
(e.g. left lobe BAL)
Turnaround: ≥80% of reports available within 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist
includes reporting of malignant and non malignant cells and infectious
organisms.
Broncho Alveolar Lavage fluid (BAL) - Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: Collect fresh 15mL specimens into twist top leak proof 30mL Universal
containers containing Shandon Cytospin Collection Fluid (green fixative
solution). Transport to the laboratory without delay
Comment: Indicate clinical history on test requisition, and the reason for test.
Turnaround: 80% of reports available within 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist
includes reporting of malignant and non malignant cells and infectious
organisms.
Broncho Alveolar lavage fluid (BAL) – Culture*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: BAL in sterile container (DO NOT add fixative). Please note: Separate
sample required for TB culture
Comment: If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Culture with sensitivities, if appropriate.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 117 of 200
Broncho Alveolar lavage fluid (BAL) – TB Culture + Microscopy
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Brucella abortus antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Bursa Fluid*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Fluid in sterile container.
Comment: If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Culture with sensitivities, if appropriate
C
CA 125
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
CA 15-3
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
CA 19-9
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Cadmium (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 118 of 200
Caffeine
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment: Collection date and time.
Date and time since last dose, and Dosage data.
Age, height and weight.
General Clinical History.
Reason for request, all Must be included on request form.
Calcitonin– Sample must be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Calcium
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 0-10d: 1.90- 2.60 mmol/L
2-12y: 2.20- 2.70 mmol/L
Adult: 2.20 – 2.65 mmol/L.
Calcium -ionised
Laboratory: Available on all Radiometer ABL-90 Point of Care blood gas analysers
located across Mayo University Hospital
Specimen: Blood in a balanced heparin syringe
Comment: Restricted use. Training and password is required to use Point of Care blood
gas analysers.
Turnaround: Immediate result
Ref. Range: Refer to report
Calcium (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 24 hour acidified urine collection
Turnaround: 1-2 days
Ref. Range: 2.5 – 7.5 mmol/24 h
Calprotectin- faeces
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 119 of 200
Cannabis
See “Toxicology Screen”
Carbapenamase Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE Screen)*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Rectal Swab only in transport medium Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: CRE screen is only indicated in following cases: Transfer from hospital
abroad, recent care (past year) in a hospital abroad or transfer from Hospital
in Ireland linked with CRE cases.
Turnaround: 3 working days (if confirmation of a positive is required then this will result
in a delay of final report)
Report: CRE Isolated/Not isolated
Carbamazepine
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Also referred to as Tegretol
Carboxyhaemoglobin
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: Blood in a Heparinised syringe/EDTA sample
Turnaround: 15 minutes
Ref. Range: Arterial/Venous Normal: <2.5%
Smokers: <8.0%
Toxic Level: >10.0%
Lethal Level: >40.0%
Carnitine, Acetyl
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory,
Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Carnitine, Free & Total (Sample must be Frozen Immediately)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Carotene
See “Vitamin A”
Catecholamines (Urine)
See “Adrenaline / Noradrenaline / Dopamine”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 120 of 200
Catheter / Intravascular Cannulae / Tips*
Laboratory: Medical Microbiology
Specimen: Lines and Tips from arterial /venous lines cut to 4 cm in sterile container.
Comment: Only send where there is evidence of infection. Urinary catheters not tested.
If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities
Cat Scratch Disease Antibodies
See “Bartonella henselae antibodies”
CEA
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Cerebrospinal Fluid – Culture / Microscopy*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: 3 specimens numbered 1, 2, 3 in sterile containers hand delivered to
Microbiology staff without delay. If Xanthochromia is required a 4th
sample
of CSF must be sent in a darkened container (i.e. Universal container
wrapped in tinfoil). Do not send in Chute. Please notify the Microbiology
Department that a CSF is on the way.
Turnaround: Microscopy: 1-2 hours. Culture: 3 days.
Report: Microscopy & Culture
Cerebrospinal Fluid – Xanthochromia
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Immunology, University of Birmingham Medical
School, Vincent Drive, EDG Baston, Birmingham , England B15 2TT
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/facilities/clinical-immunology-
services/handbook.aspx
Specimen: The CSF sample must be collected and received in a darkened container
(a sterile universal wrapped in tinfoil)
Cerebrospinal Fluid – Cytology for Malignant Cells
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: 0.5 – 20mL cerebrospinal fluid, lumbar puncture or ventricular tap in a
30mL universal container. Refrigerate overnight if necessary as the cells are
sensitive to temperature and cellular degeneration occurs if left at room
temperature for extended periods of time.
Comment: Indicate clinical history on test requisition and reason for test.
Turnaround: ≥80% of reports available within 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist
includes reporting of malignant and non malignant cells and infectious
organisms
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 121 of 200
Cerebrospinal Fluid – Glucose
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 1.5 mL CSF specimen
Comment: Send simultaneous plasma glucose specimen
Turnaround: 1 – 3 hours
Ref. Range: 2/3 plasma glucose value
Note: All CSF samples should be sent to Microbiology Dept.
Sample will then be referred to Bio.
Cerebrospinal Fluid – Lactate
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 1.5 mL CSF in a Fluoride Oxalate tube
Comment: Advisable to contact lab in advance of taking specimen
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx
Note: All CSF samples should be sent to Microbiology Dept.
Sample will then be referred to Bio.
Cerebrospinal Fluid – Protein
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 1.5 mL CSF specimen
Turnaround: 1 – 3 hours
Ref. Range: 0.15 – 0.45 g/L
Note: All CSF samples should be sent to Microbiology Dept.
Sample will then be referred to Bio.
Cerebrospinal Fluid – Oligoclonal bands and CSF IgG Index
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts*
Laboratory Medical Microbiology
Specimen: 4 cm cut from line placed in a sterile container.
Comment: Only send where evidence of infection. If delay, refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities
Ceruloplasmin
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 122 of 200
Cervical Swab*
Laboratory: Medical Microbiology
Specimen: Charcoal transport swab. If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: All specimens must specify N. gonorrhoeae on request if required.
Turnaround: 3 days
Report: Culture report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate
sensitivities.
Chlamydia psittaci Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Health Protection Agency, Bristol BS2 8EL
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/south-west-public-health-
laboratory-user-handbook
Comment: By prior arrangement with Microbiology Medical Staff
Chlamydia trachomatis + Neisseria gonorrhoea Combination (PCR) – Endocervical
and Male Urethral swabs
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology Dept., University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Chlamydia trachomatis + Neisseria gonorrhoea Combination (PCR) - Urine
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Chloride
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Male: 04W 95 – 116 mmol/L Female: 04W 95 – 116 mmol/L
12M 93 – 112 mmol/L 12M 93 – 112 mmol/L
16Y 96 – 111 mmol/L 16Y 96 – 111 mmol/L
65Y 98 – 106 mmol/L 65Y 98 – 106 mmol/L
120Y 94 – 110 mmol/L 120Y 94 – 110 mmol/L
Chloride (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: Random plain urine specimen or 24 hr sample
Turnaround: 1 day
Ref. Range: 110 – 250 mmol/24 h
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 123 of 200
Cholesterol
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 3.3 – 5.0 mmol/L
Cholinesterase Phenotyping
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
C- Kit (CD117)
Refer to Bone Marrow Immunophenotyping.
Chromogrannin A- must be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Citrate (Urine)- must be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Clostridium difficile Toxin Test
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Clozapine (Clozaril) )- must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 124 of 200
Coagulation Factor Assays (incl Factors – II, V, VII, VIII, VIII:C, IX, XI, XII, and
XIII)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Prior arrangement with the coagulation laboratory. It is important that
the specimen container is filled to the mark. Send immediately to
Coagulation Laboratory.Pre-analytical preparation required before
referral.
Coagulation Screen (PT and APTT)*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 2.7 mL blood specimens in 0.109m Sodium Citrate tubes, (1.3 mL
Paediatric tubes are available).
Comment: Profile includes, INR and APTT. Details of anticoagulant therapy required.
Must fill bottle to mark.
Sample from patient on unfractionated heparin must be received within
1.5 hours of sample taking
Turnaround: 2 Hours. Telephoned requests for faster turnaround time can be
accommodated when specifically requested.
Ref. Range: See individual assay
Cocaine
See “Toxicology”
Coeliac Screen (Anti-Tissue TransGlutaminase (tTG) Antibodies)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to: Anti-tissue Transglutamine (tTG) antibodies, Anti-Endomysial Antibodies,
Anti-Gliadin Antibodies (If still available)
Cold Agglutinins
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion
Specimen: 6.0mls EDTA K2E blood
Comment: Specimen needs to be transported Immediately to Lab @ 37oC
Turnaround: Within 5 h
Complement: C1 Esterase Inhibitor
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Complement: C1 Esterase Inhibitor Functional Assay
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 125 of 200
Complement: C1q
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, St James Hospital, Dublin 12
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Complement: C2/C5/C6/C7/C8/C9
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, St James Hospital, Dublin
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Complement: C3/C4
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Complement: C3 Nephritic Factor
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, St James Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Complement: CH100 (Total Haemolytic Complement) Functional Activity
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Complement: Alternate Pathway CH100A Functional Activity
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Conjunctivitis*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab of conjunctiva in transport swab
Comment: If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Culture report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate
sensitivities
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 126 of 200
Constitutional Microarray analysis /CGH array (Genetic Testing)
Laboratory: LaGenetics Lab, 5th
Floor Tower Wing , Guys Hospital , Great Maze pond,
London SE1 RT1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/our-
services/genetics/laboratories/samples-for-genetic-testing.aspx
Copper
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Copper (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Cortisol
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Cortisol (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Coxiella burnetii IgM Antibodies (Q fever)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Coxsackie B Virus
See “Enterovirus”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 127 of 200
C Peptide -Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Galway University Hospital, Clinical Biochemistry
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Creatine Kinase (CK)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Male: < 171 U/L Female: < 145 U/L
Creatinine
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Adult Male: 64-104 umol/L
Adult Female: 49-90 umol/L
< 2 months: 22-90 umol/l
>2 months - < 3 years: 11-34 umol/l
> 3 years - <15 years: 21-65 umol/l
Creatinine (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Random urine in plain white universal container or 24 hour urine sample in
plain container.
Turnaround: 1 day
Ref. Range: 5.3 – 15.9 mmol/24h
Creatinine Clearance
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube and a 24-hour urine sample
Turnaround: 1 day
Ref. Range: 70 – 125 mL/min
Comment: Test mostly replaced by serum eGFR (Estimated glomerular filtration rate).
CRP (C Reactive Protein)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: < 5.0 mg/L
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 128 of 200
Cryptosporidium parvum
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
CSF – Culture & Microscopy / Glucose / Protein / Lactate
See “Cerebrospinal Fluid – Culture & Microscopy / Protein / Glucose / Lactate”
CSF – Oligoclonal bands and CSF IgG Index
See “Cerebrospinal Fluid – Oligoclonal bands and CSF IgG Index”
CSU – Catheter Urine*
Laboratory: Medical Microbiology
Specimen: Sterile boric acid (red cap) universal container
Comment: If small sample, please use Sterile universal container (white cap). If delay
refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: Microscopy: 4 hrs. Culture 3 days.
Report: Microscopy & Culture and sensitivities if appropriate
Cyanide
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Cyclosporin
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Cystic Fibrosis – Genetic Test
Laboratory: Referred to National Genetics Centre, Crumlin, Dublin.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.genetics.ie/documents/CytogeneticsUserManual.pdf
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 129 of 200
Cytogenetics: Chromosome Analysis / Karyotyping
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment: Fetal or placental tissue in RPMI medium. Medium is available for
Histopathology ext 2564.
Samples must be in laboratory reception with required consent form
(electronic version available on gynae ward PC) and request form, before
12pm Mon to Wed to ensure delivery to France.
Cytogenetics for MDS
Laboratory: Referred to Sheffield Regional Cytogenetics Service, Sheffield Childrens
NHS Foundation Trust, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TH, UK
https://www.sheffieldchildrens.nhs.uk/sdgs/
Comment: Must reach referral lab within 48 hrs. Take samples on day of referral
before 11.30 a.m Monday to Wednesday. Requesting Dr must complete
request form provided by referral laboratory.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) – Urine
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Send directly to Specimen Reception to be refrigerated.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV – PCR) - Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Specimens must be delivered directly to a staff member in the
Microbiology laboratory within 3 hours of phlebotomy.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG / IgM Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 130 of 200
D
D.C. Testing (Dyskeratosis Congenita)
Laboratory : Referred to Centre for Paediatrics, Blizard Institute,
Barts and London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London,
4 Newark Street, London E1 2AT.
Phone : +44 2078822623, Email : [email protected]
D-Dimers*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 2.7 mL blood in a 0.109m Sodium Citrate tube (blue top bottle). Same
sample may be used for both Coagulation Screen and D-dimer request.
Comment: Requests should be received in the laboratory within 4 hours of phlebotomy.
Must fill bottle to mark. Clinical details and anticoagulant therapy required.
Turnaround: 3 Hours. Telephoned requests for faster turnaround time can be
accommodated when specifically requested.
Ref. Range: 0 – 0.55 mg/L.
VTE negative predicator value 0.5mg/L
Dengue fever Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: By prior arrangement with the Consultant Microbiologist.
DHEA Sulphate
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Digoxin
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase (DPD) Activity
Laboratory: Referred to Purine Research Laboratories, St Thomas Hospital, Lambeth
Palace Road, London SE1 7EH
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.viapath.co.uk/test-alphabetical?letter=p
Direct Antiglobulin Test (DAT)*
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion, MUH
Specimen: 4.0 mL EDTA K2E blood
Turnaround: 2 hours
Comment: Formerly known as Direct Coombs Test (DCT)
Ref. Range: N/A
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 131 of 200
Dopamine
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Laboratory, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont Rd,
Dublin 9
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.beaumont.ie/media/LaboratoryUserManual1.pdf
Diuretic Screen
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 132 of 200
E
E coli 0157
Laboratory: Refer to Public Health Laboratory, Cherry Orchard Hospital
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/publichealth/publichealthlabs/Public_H
ealth_Laboratory_Dublin/PHL-laboratory-users-manual-2017.pdf
Ear Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab any pus or exudate with a transport medium swab
Comment: If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities
Echinococcus (Hydatid cyst) antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London WCIE 6AU
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.uclh.nhs.uk/OurServices/ServiceA-
Z/PATH/PATHMICRO/PARA/Documents/Parasitology%20User%20Manu
al.pdf
ECHO Virus
See “Enterovirus IgM antibodies”
Ecstacy
See “Toxicology Screen”
eGFR
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Comment: Calculated formula using creatinine results. Ref range: 90-160mls/min
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Elastase 1 (Faeces)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 133 of 200
Electron Microscopy
Laboratory: Referred to Histopathology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Discuss with appropriate Consultant Histopathologist. Please notify the
Histopathology Department (ext 2564) at least 24 hours in advance. Place
the biopsy in normal saline to maintain hydration and deliver to the
laboratory immediately.
Endocervical Swab*
Laboratory: Medical Microbiology
Specimen: Charcoal transport swab. If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: All specimens must specify N. gonorrhoeae on request if required.
Turnaround: 3 days
Report: Culture report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate
sensitivities
Enterobius vermicularis (Sellotape slide for Pinworms)
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment : If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Enterovirus (PCR)
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Enterovirus IgM antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Epilim / Valproate
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry. University Hospital Galway .
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Epstein – Barr Virus (EBV) Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 134 of 200
Erythropoietin
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Erythrovirus B19 IgM antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Erythrocyte Membrane Analysis (EMA) (Hereditary Sphereocytosis screening)
Laboratory: Haematology Laboratory, Our Lady’s Childrens Hospital, Crumlin, D12
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Comments: Must reach referral lab within 48 hrs. Take samples on day of referral
before 11.30 a.m. Mon to Thurs
Erythrocytosis Screen
Laboratory: Haematology Dept, Belfast City Hospital
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at Belfast Trust Lab User Manual
Comments: Must reach referral lab within 48 hrs. Take samples on day of referral
before 11.30 a.m. Monday to Wednesday. Prior arrangement with
consultant Haematologist or SPR at Belfast City Hospital, Haematology
Laboratory
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) (Manual and Automated)*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: Automated: 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood, (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are
available)
Manual: 2.4mls of blood in 0.129 M Sodium Citrate (Black Top).
Comment: Automated: Samples are tested within 4 hours of venepuncture or can
stored at 4ºC for up to 24 hours.
Manual: The laboratory should receive requests within 4 hours of
phlebotomy.
Ref. Range: Male Female
Manual 0-10 0-12
Automated 0-23 0-32
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 135 of 200
Ethylene Glycol
Laboratory: Referred to Beaumont Toxicology Laboratory, Beaumont Hospital,
Beaumont Road, Dublin 9
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.poisons.ie/docs/Poisons-Lab-Assay-Book.pdf
Comment: Contact Consultant Chemical Pathologist (through Biochemistry Lab)
who will advise as to the necessity for having the assay sent to Beaumont
as an emergency
Eye Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium
Comment: If delay refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities.
Exon 12 Mutation
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, Belfast City Hospital.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
Belfast Trust Lab User Manual
Comments: EPO Level must be submitted with request. Must reach referral lab within
48 hrs. Take samples on day of referral before 11.30 a.m. Monday to
Wednesday. Prior arrangement with consultant Haematologist or SPR at
Belfast City Hospital, Haematology Laboratory
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 136 of 200
F
Factor Inhibitor Studies
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Factor V Leiden Mutation
Laboratory: Referred to National Centre for Haemophilia and Coagulation Diseases, St
James Hospital, Dublin.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Only carried out when patient has an abnormal APCR (activated protein
C resistance) or has a positive lupus anticoagulant screen. APCR results
must be submitted with request and indicate if Lupus screen is positive.
Faeces – Microscopy, Culture and Antigen Detection
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway Refer to the
Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Fanconi Screen
Laboratory : Referred to Sheffield Regional Cytogenetics,
Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
Refer to the Laboratory user Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at
https://www.sheffieldchildrens.nhs.uk/sdgs/
Farmers Lung Antibodies (Micropolyspora Faenii)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Ferritin
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 137 of 200
Fetal/Neonatal Allo-immune Thrombocytopaenia (FNAIT)
Laboratory: Referred to Irish Blood Transfusion Service, St James Hospital, Dublin
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.giveblood.ie/Clinical_Services/Clinical_Diagnostic/Primary%2
0Specimen%20User%20Manual%20.pdf
Fibrinogen*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 2.7 mL blood specimens in 0.109m Sodium Citrate tubes, (1.3 mL
Paediatric tubes are available).
Comment: Same sample may be used for both Coagulation and Fibrinogen,
Turnaround: 2 Hours. Telephoned requests for faster turnaround time can be
accommodated when specifically requested.
Ref. Range: Adult: 1.7 – 4.2 g/L. Refer to report for age specific ranges.
Filaria Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London WCIE 6AU
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.uclh.nhs.uk/OurServices/ServiceA-
Z/PATH/PATHMICRO/PARA/Documents/Parasitology%20User%20Manu
al.pdf
Fine Needle Aspirates (FNA) of breast, thyroid, axilla, parotid, submandular, lymph
node and cysts
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: Superficial and deep seated lesions. Deep seated lesions that need ultrasonic,
CT or fluoroscopic guidance may be required. Use a 22–25 gauge fine
needle and a 10–20mL syringe for collection of specimen. Prepare a thin
even smear on a clean microscope slide(s). Immediately after preparation,
spray a complete even coating of Cell-Fix onto the slides from a distance of
25–30 cm (10–12 inches). Fixed slides will be dry between one and five
minutes. Label, place in cassette and send to the laboratory.
Alternately transfer the aspirate into Shandon Cytospin Collection Fluid
(green fixative solution) and the lab will prepare the slides.
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist
Flecainide Acetate – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 138 of 200
Flow Cytometry (Immunotyping of Leukaemias and Lymphomas)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment : 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood or Bone Marrow aspirate in RPMI or Lymph
Node Biopsy in RPMI. Send non-urgent samples Monday to Wednesday
only.
Prior arrangement with consultant Haematologist or SPR
FLT3 – Mutation
Laboratory: Referred to CMD Laboratory, St James Hospital, Dublin 8.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Arrange through Haematology Registrar, or Consultant Haematologist.
FISH CLL
Laboratory: Referred to National Centre for Medical Genetics, Crumlin, Dublin
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.genetics.ie/documents/CytogeneticsUserManual.pdf
Comment: Samples must be received by 11:00 h Monday to Thursday only to ensure
delivery to Dublin. Prior arrangement with Consultant Haematologist is
required.
Folate (Serum)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Fragile X Chromosome
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment: Consent form must be completed, contact laboratory prior to taking sample
Free light chains
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Department, University Hospital Galway Refer to
the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 139 of 200
Free T4
See “Thyroxine”
Frozen Sections for Fresh Tissue
Laboratory: Histopathology
Specimen: Fresh tissue taken into a clean dry container. Do not add fixative.
Comment: Prior arrangement with the Consultant Histopathologist is required.
Turnaround: Same day
Report: Histological diagnosis provided by the Consultant Histopathologist.
FSH
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Full Blood Count*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood, (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are available).
Comment: After 24 hours, WBC differential and red cell indices are affected by EDTA
changes. Ensure samples are not taken from a drip site as this results in
dilution of the sample. Turnaround: 2 hours. Telephoned requests for faster turnaround time can be
accommodated on particularly urgent specimens.
Ref. Range: See report form
Fungal Microscopy and Culture*
Laboratory: Microbiology, Galway University Hospital
Specimen: Sputum, fluids, tissue/pus in sterile container.
Comment: Only for non dermatophytes on clinically appropriate specimens.
Turnaround: Culture: 5 days.
Report: Culture: Growth / No Growth
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 140 of 200
G
G6PD Quantitation
Laboratory: Referred to Special Haematology, St James Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
G6PD Screening
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Galway University Hospital.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Galactose
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory,
Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Galactose-1-phosphate
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory,
Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Galactomannan antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to the Department of Microbiology, Our Lady’s Children’s
Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Gamma-glutamyl-transferase (γ-GT)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
0 – 6 mths 12 – 122 u/L 15 – 132 u/L
6mths – 1 yr 1 - 39 u/L 1 – 39 u/L
1 yr- 12 yrs 3 – 22 u/L 3 – 22 u/L
13 yrs – 18 yrs 2 - 42 u/L 2 – 42 u/L
Adults <55 u/L <38 u/L
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 141 of 200
Gastrin- (must be Frozen Immediately) Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Gastrointestinal Tract Hormones (GIT Hormones): incl. Gastrin, Insulin, Somatostatin,
N-terminal Glucagon, C-terminal Glucagon, Pancreatic Polypeptide, Vasoactive
Intestinal Polypeptide, Trypsin, Total CgA and Neurokinin A
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratory Dublin;
Three Rock Rd., Sandyford Industrial Estate, Sandyford, Dublin 18;
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment: Fresh specimen required. Must fill bottle to mark. Send immediately to
Biochemistry Laboratory or Specimen Reception Mayo University
Hospital . Pre-analytical preparation ( freezing)required before referral
Genital Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium (charcoal). Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: All specimens must specify N. gonorrhoeae on request if required.
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: Any clinically significant isolates and sensitivities where appropriate.
Gentamicin / Genticin*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube.
Comment: State time collected – refer to GUH Antimicrobial guidelines (GAPP) for
comprehensive dosing and monitoring guidelines.
Turnaround: 1 day.
Ref. Range: Gentamicin desirable levels are as follows:
Pre-dose: <1mg/litre
Post-dose: 3-5 mg/l. Multiple Daily Dose Regimen: For treatment of
Endocarditis and synery only.
Glucagon
See “Gastrointestinal Tract Hormones”
Glucose
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 4.0 mL Fluoride Oxalate blood (or a fresh 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube)
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Fasting 4.1 – 5.9 mmol/L (4.1 – 7.8 mmol/L for random sample)
Glucose tolerance test:
Fasting Glucose Impaired fasting glycaemia 6.1-6.9 , Diabetes > 7.0
120mins Glucose Impaired glu tolerance >7.8 and <11.1,Diabetes >= 11.1
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 142 of 200
Glucose (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Random fresh plain urine specimen
Comment: Measured using dipstick
Turnaround: 1 day
Report: Usually measured at point of care by ward staff.
Granulocyte Direct and Phenotyping
Laboratory: Referred to Histocompatibility and Immunogenetic Dept, Blood and
Transplant Lab, Bristol.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://hospital.blood.co.uk/diagnostic-services/diagnostic-user-guides/
Comment: Prior arrangement with Blood Transfusion Laboratory is essential for
immediate referral to Bristol.
Granulocyte Immunology
Laboratory: Referred to Histocompatibility and Immunogenetic Dept, Blood and
Transplant Lab, Bristol.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://hospital.blood.co.uk/diagnostic-services/diagnostic-user-guides/
Comment: Prior arrangement with Blood Transfusion Laboratory is essential for
immediate referral to Bristol.
Group and DAT*
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion
Specimen: 1.3ml EDTA K2E
Turnaround: 2 hours
Ref. Range: N/A
Group and Crossmatch*
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion
Specimen: 6.0mls EDTA K2E blood, 1ml for pediatric samples
Turnaround: 3 hours (contact the laboratory if crossmatch is urgent for a quicker
turnaround time)
Ref. Range: N/A
Group Confirmation
Laboratory: Referred to IBTS, St James’s Street, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.giveblood.ie/Old-Site-
Documents/Primary%20Specimen%20User%20Manual.pdf
Group and Hold/ Group and Screen*
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion
Specimen: 6.0mls EDTA K2E blood, 1ml for pediatric samples
Turnaround: 2 hours
Ref. Range: N/A
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 143 of 200
Growth Hormone- To be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Gut Hormone Profile
See “Gastrointestinal Tract Hormones”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 144 of 200
H
Haematinics Screen
Refer to Vitamin B12, Red Cell Folate and Iron tests
Haemochromatosis – C282Y and H63D Genetic Mutations
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Haemoglobin A1c
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Haemoglobin A2
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, St James Hospital, James St, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment Request form must give clinical details, transfusion history and ethnic
origin of patient. Levels of HbA2 will be affected by the presence of iron
deficiency.
Haemoglobin F
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, St James Hospital, James St, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment Request form must give clinical details, transfusion history and ethnic
origin of patient.
Haemoglobin S
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, St James Hospital, James St, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Haemoglobinopathy Screen - Referred from Haematology Laboratory
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, St James Hospital, James St, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 145 of 200
Haemophilus influenzae B Antibodies (IgG)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, St James Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Haemolytic Screen (FBC, Blood film, Retic Count, Direct Antiglobulin Test,
Haptoglobin and L.D.H)
Laboratory: See Laboratory for individual tests.
Specimen: 1 EDTA. Sample will be adequate for FBC/Blood film and Retic. Refer to
individual tests for sample requirement.
Comments: See individual test comments
Turnaround: See individual tests
Ref. Range: See individual tests
Haemosiderin (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Hams Test
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Hantavirus Antibodies - Serum
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Haptoglobin
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
HCG, Total
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Female: < 5 IU/L non pregnant. Note: HCG requested with/without AFP on
male patients is referred to Biochemistry, Galway University Hospital
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 146 of 200
Heinz Bodies
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Helicobacter Pylori
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Comment : Sample requires to be frozen if transport to Eurofins Biomnis is >48hrs.
Hepatitis A IgM Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Hepatitis A Virus Total Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Hepatitis B Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Hepatitis B Core Antibody (anti-HBc)
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Hepatitis B DNA / Viral Load– Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Specimen must be delivered to a Virology staff member within 3 hours of
phlebotomy.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 147 of 200
Hepatitis C Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Hepatitis C PCR / Viral Load / Genotype – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Specimen must be delivered to a Virology staff member within 3 hours of
phlebotomy.
Hepatitis D Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Request must be approved by Consultant Microbiologist
Hepatitis E Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Request must be approved by Consultant Microbiologist
Hereditary Spherocytosis Screen (Flow Cytometry)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin,
Dublin 12.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Comment: Arrange with Haematology laboratory before taking specimen. Must be
received in Haematology laboratory before 11.00 h to facilitate transport
to Referral Laboratory. Only take samples Monday to Thursday.
Herpes simplex virus antibody
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Only referred to Reference Laboratory in exceptional circumstances
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 148 of 200
Herpes simplex virus - Culture
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Herpes simplex virus - PCR
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
5-HIAA (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Laboratory, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont Rd,
D9. Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.beaumont.ie/media/LaboratoryUserManual1.pdf
High Density Lipoprotein (HDL)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry.MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 1.03 – 2.38 mmol/L
High Vaginal Swab (HVS)*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium (charcoal). Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: All specimens must specify N. gonorrhoeae on request if required.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any significant pathogens and sensitivities where appropriate.
Histamine Analysis
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
HITS (Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia) Screening
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Must reach referral lab within 2 hours. Requesting Clinician must
contact the Haematology team in GUH before requesting a HIT screen. A
HIT request form containing a scoring template must be completed by the
requesting clinician, which is available from the Haematology Laboratory.
Arrange with Coagulation laboratory Galway University Hospital
(091544995) before taking specimen. Send samples immediately after
phlebotomy to Haematology Lab MUH for referral.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 149 of 200
HITS (Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia) Confirmation
Laboratory: Referred to National Centre for Haemophilia and Coagulation Diseases, St
James Hosp, Dublin
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Samples must be sent within 2 hours to Haematology Lab MUH for
preanalytical preparation. Samples will be sent on the next working day.
If results are required urgently contact the Haematology Laboratory.
HLA Typing
Laboratory: Referred to IBTS, St James’s Street, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
https://www.giveblood.ie/Old-Site-
Documents/Primary%20Specimen%20User%20Manual.pdf
Homocysteine (Adult) – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Human Immunodeficiency Virus antigen/antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Human Immunodeficiency (HIV) Viral Load – PCR
– Sample must be frozen immediately Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Comment: Specimen must be delivered to a microbiology staff member within 3 hours
of phlebotomy.
Human T-Lymphocyte Virus (HTLV-1 / 11)
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Huntington’s Disease
Laboratory: Referred to National Genetics Centre, Crumlin, Dublin.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.genetics.ie/documents/CytogeneticsUserManual.pdf
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 150 of 200
Hurler’s Syndrome Screen
See “Alpha-1-iduronidase”
Hydatid antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London WCIE 6AU
Referred to Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London WCIE 6AU
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.uclh.nhs.uk/OurServices/ServiceA-
Z/PATH/PATHMICRO/PARA/Documents/Parasitology%20User%20Manu
al.pdf
17-Hydroxyprogesterone (infants)
See “17-Alpha-OH-Progesterone, < 1 year old
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 151 of 200
I
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
Laboratory: Referred to Histocompatibility and Immunogenetic Dept, Blood and
Transplant Centre, Bristol via the IBTS, James St, Dublin 2.
Comment: 3 x 6ml EDTA and 6ml clot. Request form (click on link) must be
completed. Details of specific requirements can be viewed here.
Prior arrangement with Blood Transfusion Laboratory is essential for
immediate referral to Bristol.
Immunoglobulins IgG / IgA / IgM and Serum Protein Electrophoresis
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
IgD
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept, Northern General hospital, Sheffield
Specimen: 5 mL blood in plain gel tube
Turnaround: 3 weeks
Ref. Range: On report form including interpretative comment
IgE (Total)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
IgG Subclasses
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
IGVH Genes
Contact the Haematology Laboratory MUH
Immunofluorescence Biopsies – Skin / Renal
Laboratory: Histopathology: referred to University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Place the fresh tissue in a leak proof container with normal saline to
maintain hydration and deliver to the laboratory immediately, with
completed request form. Include contact details.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 152 of 200
Immunophenotyping (Flow Cytometry)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Prior arrangement with Consultant Haematologist or SPR. Send non-
urgent samples Monday to Wednesday only.
Immunophenotyping Peripheral Blood
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Laboratory, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
I.M. Screen (Infectious Mononucleosis)*
Laboratory: Haematology, MUH.
Specimen: Either a clotted sample or 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood, (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes
are available). Sample must be less than 48 hours. Same sample can be used
for FBC and I.M.
Turnaround: 1 day. Telephoned requests for faster turnaround time can be accommodated
on particularly urgent specimens.
Limitations: 50% of children <4 years and up to 20% adults give a false negative result.
If clinically indicated, negative results should be confirmed by EBV assay.
Influenza A virus
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
INR (International Normalised Ratio)*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 2.7 mL blood in a 0.109m Sodium Citrate tube. (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are
available). Fill bottle to mark. Same sample may be used for APTT, D-
dimers.
Comment: Details of anticoagulant therapy required. Do not refrigerate specimens for
INR
Turnaround: 2 hours. Telephoned requests for faster turnaround time can be
accommodated on particularly urgent specimens
Ref. Range: See report form
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 153 of 200
Insulin -Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Fresh specimen required. Must fill bottle to mark. Send immediately to
Biochemistry Laboratory or Specimen Reception Mayo University
Hospital . Pre-analytical preparation ( freezing)required before referral.
Insulin Antibodies -Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Insulin Like Growth Factor 1– Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Intraocular Fluids / Corneal Scrapings
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Intra – Uterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD)*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Intra Uterine Device. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: Only submit for culture with relevant clinical details. All specimens must
specify N. gonorrhoeae on request if required.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities
Intra – Uterine Infection Screen / TORCH Screen
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 154 of 200
Intravascular Cannulae – Culture*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Cut 4cm of line to sterile container. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: Only submit specimen for culture where indications of infection are present.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities.
Iron
Laboratory: Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
06D 17.9 – 44.8 umol/l 17.9 – 44.8 umol/l
03M 7.2 – 17.9 umol/l 7.2 – 17.9 umol/l
11Y 9.0 – 21.5 umol/l 9.0 – 21.5 umol/l
120Y 12.0 – 31.0 umol/l 9.0 – 30.0 umol/l
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 155 of 200
J
Joint Aspirates - Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: 1.0 – 20 mL fresh specimen in a universal container. Do not use fixative.
Specify if cytology or crystal analysis is required. Send crystal analysis to
histopathology. Refrigerate overnight if necessary.
Comment: Indicate clinical history on test requisition and reason for test.
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days.
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist.
Joint Fluid*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Specimen in sterile container. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any clinically significant isolate with the appropriate sensitivities
Joint Fluid – Uric Acid Crystals
Laboratory: Histopathology
Specimen: Fresh joint fluid 1.0 – 20 mL fresh specimen in a universal container. Do
not use fixative.
Comment: Indicate clinical history on test requisition and reason for test.
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist
JAK – 2 Mutation
Laboratory: Referred to CMD Laboratory, St James Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Pre authorization with SPR and arrangement with laboratory. Send
Monday to Thursday to Haematology for referral.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 156 of 200
K
Kappa Levetiracetam / Keppra - Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Kleihauer-Betke Test (KBT)*
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion, MUH
Specimen: POST DELIVERY
2 x 6ml EDTA maternal samples
1ml Cord blood sample
SENSITISING EVENT
2 x6ml EDTA maternal samples
Comment: A minimum of 30-45 minutes must have elapsed post delivery/ sensitising
event before the samples are collected.
Turnaround: 3 days
Ref. Range: N/A
Karyotyping
Laboratory: Refer to Laboratory Specimen Reception for details and specimen request
form
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 157 of 200
L
Lactate
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 4.0 mL Fluoride Oxalate blood.
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx
Ref. Range: 0.5 – 2.2 mmol/L
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube. LDH only done on samples received in
Biochemistry unspun within 2 hrs. post phlebotomy.
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 0 – 4 days: 290u/l – 775u/l
4 – 10 days: 545u/l – 2000u/l
10 – 2 yrs: 180u/l – 430u/l
2 yrs – 12 yrs: 110u/l -295u/l
Adult: <248u/l
Lamictal Levels
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Lead
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Levetiracetam kappa- (see Keppra)- must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Legionella pneumophila Urinary Antigen*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Plain random urine specimen in a sterile Universal container (without Boric
Acid).
Comment: Specimen to arrive in laboratory within 24 hour of collection
Turnaround: Day of receipt
Report: Positive/Negative
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 158 of 200
Leptospira antibody
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Leucocyte Acid Phosphatase (LAP) Cytochemical Stain
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase (LAP) Cytochemical Stain
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Leucocyte Esterase Stain (Cytochemical Stain)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Leucodystrophy Screen
Laboratory: Referred to Willink Unit,
Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Pendlebury, Manchester M27 4HA
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cmft.nhs.uk/media/209835/lab%20handbook%202_0.doc
LH
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Lipase
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 159 of 200
Lipoprotein (a)
Laboratory: Referred to Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Macewen Building, Royal
Infirmary, Glasgow G4 0SF
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/professional-support-
sites/biochemistry/gp-handbook-nhsggc/
Lithium
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 4.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Comment: Sample 12 hours post dose (trough sample)
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University
Hospital wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working
days.
Ref. Range: 0.50 – 1.20 mmol/L
Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL-Calculated)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Comment: Calculated parameter
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: < 2.6 mmol/L
Lupus Anticoagulant Screen
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment Details of anticoagulant therapy required. Must fill bottle to mark. Send
immediately to Coagulation Laboratory. Pre-analytical preparation
required before referral. For testing guidelines: Refer to Thrombophilia
Screening guidelines regarding appropriate testing here. (click on link)
Lyme Disease Antibodies (Borrelia burgdorferi)
Laboratory: Medical Microbiology Dept., University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: For CSF-PCR see under Cerebrospinal Fluid
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 160 of 200
Lymphocyte subsets CD3 (T cell) CD4 (T helper) CD8 (T cytotoxic) CD19 (B cell)
CD16/56 (NK cell)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Please contact Lab before taking sample
Lysosomal Enzymes (Plasma and White Cell Enzyme Screen)
Laboratory: Referred to Willink Unit,
Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Pendlebury, Manchester M27 4HA
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cmft.nhs.uk/media/209835/lab%20handbook%202_0.doc
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 161 of 200
M
Magnesium
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube. Magnesium only done on samples received
in Biochemistry unspun within 24 hrs post phlebotomy.
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 0.73 – 1.06 mmol/L
Magnesium (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry.MUH.
Specimen: 24 h collection in acid or random fresh, plain specimen
Turnaround: 2-3 days
Ref. Range: 3.0 – 5.0 mmol/24h
Malaria Screen*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood (1ml for pediatric samples). Fresh sample required.
Comment: Blood film is examined microscopically. The blood is tested for the
presence of parasite associated enzyme. Travel history and clinical details
essential.
Turnaround: 3 hrs. Second scientist confirms results of this test done out of hours or on
weekends as soon as possible on the next working day.
Report: Positive/Negative. Where clinically indicated a negative specimen may be
referred to a reference centre for analysis by PCR. All positive samples are
referred to the Malaria Reference Laboratory in London for confirmation
Manganese
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Measles IgM / IgG antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Meningococcal antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to the Meningococcal and Meningitis Laboratory,
Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 162 of 200
Meningococcal PCR -CSF
Laboratory: Referred to the Irish Meningococcal and Meningitis Reference Laboratory
(IMMRL), Children’s University Hospital, Temple St., Dublin 1.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Comment: Sample to be handed to Microbiology staff member
Meningococcal PCR – EDTA Sample (FBC Sample)
Laboratory: Referred to the Irish Meningococcal and Meningitis Reference Laboratory
(IMMRL), Children’s University Hospital, Temple St., Dublin 1.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Comments: 1) Sample to be handed to Microbiology staff member
2) Please send separate EDTA Sample for this test – Haematology FBC
sample cannot be accepted.
Mercury - Urine
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Metabolic Screen (Amino Acid Chromatography) – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory, Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Metabolic Screen (Urine Amino Acid Chromatography)
– Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory, Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Metanephrines (Plasma) – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Freeman Hospital, High Heaton, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE7
7DN
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
https://secure.newcastlelaboratories.com/test-directory/test/metadrenalines-
plasma/
Comment: Specimen must be delivered immediately to the lab post phlebotomy.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 163 of 200
Metanephrines (Urine)
See “Adrenaline / Noradrenaline / Dopamine”
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Department, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont,
Dublin 9.
Refer to the Laboratory user Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at:
http://www.beaumont.ie/media/External_User_Manual1.pdf
Methadone
See “Toxicology Screen”
Methaemoglobin
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Methicillin-Resistant Staph aureus (MRSA)*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: Throat swabs are not tested as part of routine MRSA screen. Tested on
specific requests only
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: MRSA isolated / Not isolated.
Methotrexate
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Methylmalonic Acid
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory, Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Microalbumin (Urine Albumin)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Micropolyspora faenii (Farmer’s Lung)
See: “Farmer’s Lung antibodies”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 164 of 200
Monospot (Glandular Fever)*
See I.M. Screen (Infectious Mononucleosis)
Morphology*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 3.0 mL K3
EDTA blood (1ml for pediatric samples)
Comment: Blood films are made, examined and reported on patients whose FBC
results satisfy the criteria laid down by the laboratory in the guidelines
‘Indications for blood film examination’. When a blood film is specifically
requested which falls outside of these guidelines this will be examined
where the request form indicates the agreed clinical details.
Turnaround: Where clinical details are supplied urgent requests receive immediate
attention. Routine differentials are reported within 1 day.
Report: See report form
Mouth Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Presence of pathogens/ No Pathogens isolated.
M.P.L. Exon 10 Mutation and CALR (calreticulin mutation)
Laboratory : Referred to Belfast City Hospital, 51 Lisburn Road
Belfast BT97AB.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at
http://www.belfasttrust.hscni.net/services/Laboratory-MortuaryServices.htm
MSU – Midstream Urine*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Specimen in Boric Acid Universal container. Use plain sterile Universal
container for Paediatric specimen or urine volumes < 20 mL.
Comment: Urine taken at mid-point of urination.
Turnaround: Microscopy: 4 hours. Culture: 2-3 days
Report: Microscopy: Cell count. Culture: Presence of significant pathogen and
sensitivities if relevant.
MTHFR
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Mumps IgG / IgM antibody
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 165 of 200
Muscle Biopsies
Laboratory: Histopathology referred to University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Fresh tissue with stitch inserted to indicate the long axis
Please notify the Histopathology Department (ext. 2564) at least 24 hours
in advance Immediate dispatch to laboratory where tissue pieces are
frozen / formalin fixed.
Mycobacteria Testing
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Specimen of sputa, BAL in sterile 60 mL container. Early morning urine
in 100 mL sterile container by prior arrangement only. Fluids / tissues in
sterile containers. Blood Culture / Bone Marrow aspirate, heavily blood
stained fluids in Bactec Myco/Lytic (red cap) vials. Delay > 2 h refrigerate
@ 2-8OC.
Decontaminated respiratory specimens are retained for 1 month. They are
unsuitable for other investigations once decontaminated.
Mycology
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Transport swab. Tissue/pus in sterile container. Hair, nail clippings, skin
scrapings in Dermapak. Refer to Medical Microbiology section.
Comment: Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 5-6 weeks
Report: Fungi Isolated / Not isolated.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae antibody
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Myeloma Screen
Laboratory: Refer to individual tests
Tests: FBC, Blood film, ESR, Serum Electrophoresis with immunofixation, Serum
for Light chains and Urine for Bence Jones Protein.
Specimen: Refer to individual tests for specimen requirements.
Myoglobin
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 166 of 200
N
Neutrophil Function Test – Dihydrorhodamine Flow Cytometry Assay of Respiratory
Burst Activity
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Neisseria gonorrhoea – Culture*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium (charcoal), must be from Endocervical (female)
or Urethral/penile (male) sites.
Comment: Swab must be received in laboratory on same day of collection for
processing.
Molecular Testing: See details outlined in “Chlamydia trachomatis” tests. This is also
available for Urine specimens.
Turnaround: 3 days
Report: N. gonorrhoeae isolated/not isolated.
Neisseria gonorrhoea + Chlamydia trachomatis Combination (PCR) – Endocervical
and Male Urethral swabs
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology Dept., University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Newcastle work-up
Laboratory: Referred to Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, UK
Specimen: Blood bottles and instructions available in Biochemistry Dept. Guthrie card
with blood spots also required.
Comment: Lab blood glucose should confirm hypoglycaemia before test is performed.
Report: Interpretation on report
N. meningitides PCR
See “Meningococcal PCR” referred to Temple St, Children’s University Hospital Dublin
Noradrenaline (Adrenaline/Dopamine)
See “Catecholamines”
Norovirus detection
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Nose Swab (Nasal)*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any significant pathogens and sensitivities if required.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 167 of 200
NPM1
Laboratory: Central Molecular Diagnostic laboratory, St James Hospital, James St D8.
Refer to the Laboratory user Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Sample must be taken before 11:30am only on Mon, Tues, Wed or Thurs.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 168 of 200
O
Oestradiol
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Oestrone
Laboratory: Referred to Endocrinology Dept., St Vincent’s Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4
Specimen: 4.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: 1 – 3 weeks
Ref. Range: On report form
Opiates
See “Toxicology Screen”
Organic Acids – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory, Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Osmolality (Calculated)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 4.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube. Calculated from UE, separate glucose
sample required for GP samples.
Turnaround: Hospital: 1 day. GP Healthlinks within 3 working days
Ref. Range: 01M: 266 - 295 mOS/kg
50Y: 275 – 295 mOS/kg
120Y: 280 – 301 mOS/kg
Osmolality (Urine/ Calculated)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Plain random urine specimen
Turnaround: 1 day
Ref. Range: 50 – 1200 mOS/Kg (Depending on fluid intake)
300 – 900 mOS/Kg (On average fluid intake)
>850 mOS/Kg (Post 12 h fluid restriction)
Osmotic Fragility
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Authorisation by Haematology SPR in GUH and arranged with
laboratory. The specimen must reach the laboratory before 11:00 on day
of analysis.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 169 of 200
Ova / Cysts / Parasites
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Ova and parasites (other than Cryptosporidium) are rarely detected.
Examination for other O&P is only performed when specific clinical
details (e.g. foreign travel) are stated on the request form.
Oxidative Burst Test (Neutrophil Function Test)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Laboratory, OLCH, Crumlin.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Comment: Prior arrangement must be made with the Referral Lab and with Haem
Lab, MUH (in order to arrange transport).
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 170 of 200
P
Paracetamol
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University
Hospital wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP samples treated as in-house
Ref. Range: Not normally detected
Paramalignant Antibodies
See “Autoantibodies: Anti-Neuronal Antibodies”
Paraquat - Urine
Laboratory: Referred to Public Analyst Laboratory, Seamus Quirke Road, Galway
Specimen: Plain random urine specimen
Turnaround: 1 day if prior notification received
Ref. Range: Not normally detected
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) - sample must be frozen
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Parvovirus / B 19 IgM Antibodies
See “Erythrovirus B19” see page 116
Penile Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium (charcoal). Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC
Comment: For investigation for Neisseria gonorrhoeae a Urethral swab must be sent.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any significant pathogen and sensitivities if required.
Peritoneal Fluid - Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: 15 ml of fluid placed in prefilled 30 ml universal containing 15 mls of
Shandon Cytospin Collection Fluid (green fixative fluid) [Available from the
Histopathology Laboratory ext 2564]
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days.
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist.
Pernasal Swab / Pertussis
Laboratory: Referred to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin, Dublin, (for PCR)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Comment: Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 171 of 200
PFA 100/Bleeding Time
Laboratory: Referred to National Centre for Hereditary Coagulation Disorders, St James
Hosp, Dublin.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Coagulation sample X 2. Must be sent immediately to referral lab and
arrive not later than 15.00.
Prior arrangement with both Haematology and referral lab is necessary in
order to arrange Transport.
PHD2 HIF 2
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, Belfast City Hospital, 51 Lisburn Road,
Belfast, County Antrim.
Refer to the Laboratory user Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at
http://www.belfasttrust.hscni.net/services/Laboratory-MortuaryServices.htm
Comment: Must reach Referral Lab within 24 hours of taking sample
PHD2, HIF2α, VHL Genes (Erythrocytosis Screen)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Dept, Belfast City Hospital, 51 Lisburn Road,
Belfast, County Antrim.
Refer to the Laboratory user Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at
http://www.belfasttrust.hscni.net/services/Laboratory-MortuaryServices.htm
Comment: Must reach Referral Lab within 24 hours of taking sample
Phenobarbitone / Phenobarbital
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Phenylalanine
Laboratory: Referred to Metabolic Laboratory,
Children’s University Hospital,
Temple St., Dublin 1
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cuh.ie/healthcare-professionals/departments/laboratory/
Comment: Request form MUST include clinical details
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 172 of 200
Phenytoin
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Phosphate –inorganic
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube. Phosphate only done on samples received
in Biochemistry unspun within 6 hrs post phlebotomy
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30D 0.87 – 2.58 mmol/L 0.87 – 2.58 mmol/L
02Y 0.81 – 2.26 mmol/L 0.81 – 2.26 mmol/L
13Y 0.97 – 1.94 mmol/L 0.81 – 1.94 mmol/L
16Y 0.97 – 1.74 mmol 0.97 – 1.81 mmol/L
18Y 0.97 – 1.68 mmol/L 0.97 – 1.55 mmol/L
120Y 0.81 – 1.45 mmol/L 0.81 – 1.45 mmol/l
Phosphate (Urine)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Phytanic Acid
Laboratory: Referred to Willink Unit,
Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Pendlebury, Manchester M27 4HA
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cmft.nhs.uk/media/209835/lab%20handbook%202_0.doc
Pinworm
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology University Hospital Galway,
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Plasma Viscosity
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 173 of 200
Platelet Aggregation Studies
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Prior authorization by Consultant Haematologist or SPR. Arrange with
Coagulation laboratory before taking specimen. Phone 091 544995.
Patient must not take any anti-platelet medications for 1 week prior to test
(incl. aspirin, NSAIDA, Clopidogrel/plavix, cough suppressants). Discard
the first specimen when obtaining blood from patient as there may be
some platelet activation present which will influence the test results.
Specimens must reach the Coagulation laboratory no later than 11:00 on
the day of analysis. Must fill bottles to mark.
Platelet Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Histocompatibility and Immunogenetic Dept, Blood and
Transplant Lab, Bristol.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://hospital.blood.co.uk/diagnostic-services/diagnostic-user-guides/
Comments: Request form (click on link) must be completed. Details of specific
requirements can be viewed here
Platelet Antigen Typing
Laboratory: Referred to IBTS, St James’s Street, Dublin 8
Specimen: 2 x 6ml EDTA
Comment: Prior arrangement with NHIRL, IBTS is essential.
Turnaround: 21 working days
Ref. Range: N/A
Pleural Fluid - Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: 15 ml of fluid placed in prefilled 30 ml universal containing 15 mls of
Shandon Cytospin Collection Fluid (green fixative fluid) [Available from the
Histopathology Laboratory ext 2564]
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days.
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist.
Pleural Fluid -Microscopy & Culture*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Pleural fluid in sterile container. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any significant pathogens & sensitivities if required
Pleural Fluid -TB Culture
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology – University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 174 of 200
Pneumococcal (S. Pneumoniae) antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Dept of St James Hospital Dublin
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in plain gel tube
Turnaround: 1 – 2 weeks
Report: Positive/Negative
Pneumococcal Antigen*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Plain random urine specimen in a sterile Universal container
Comment: Specimen to arrive in laboratory within 24 hour of collection
Turnaround: Day of receipt Report:Positive/Negative
Pneumocystis jiroveci investigation
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
PNH Screening (Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria) by Flow Cytometry
Laboratory: Haematology Dept., University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Prior authorization by Consultant Haematologist or SPR. Arrange with
Haematology laboratory before taking specimen. Specimens must reach
the laboratory no later than 11:00 h Mon to Thur to facilitate transport.
Porphyrin Screen
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Laboratory, St. James’ Hospital, Dublin 8
Specimen: 10.0 mL EDTA blood, 10.0 mL Li Heparin blood, 5g fresh faeces and a 24
hour urine collection
Comment: All specimens must be protected from light
Ref. Range: On report form
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Potassium
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL fresh blood in a plain gel tube. Potassium only done on samples
received in Biochemistry unspun within 4 hrs post phlebotomy.
Comment: K+ only done on GP samples which have been centrifuged at source or
received within 4 hrs of phlebotomy. Must be specifically requested on GP
form.
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 04W 3.6 – 6.1 mmol/L
12M 3.6 – 5.8 mmol/L
16Y 3.1 – 5.1 mmol/L
60Y 3.3 – 5.1 mmol/L
120Y 3.5 – 5.1 mmol/L
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 175 of 200
Potassium (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Random or 24 hour urine collection
Turnaround: 1 day
Ref. Range: 25 – 125 mmol/24h. No ref range for random sample.
Pre-albumin
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Pre-employment Toxicology Screen
Contact: Toxicology Laboratory, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin
Referred to Beaumont Toxicology Laboratory, Beaumont Hospital,
Beaumont Road, Dublin 9
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.poisons.ie/docs/Poisons-Lab-Assay-Book.pdf
Pregnancy Test – Urinary B-HCG
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Random urine sample in plain container.
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo General Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP samples treated as in-house
Result: Positive or Negative
ProBNP
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Procollagen Peptide Type 3 – Sample must be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Progesterone
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Prograf
See “Tacrolimus”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 176 of 200
Proinsulin – Sample must be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Prolactin
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Protein
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 1-30d: 41-63 g/l
1yr-18yrs: 57-80 g/l
Adult: 66-83 g/l
Protein (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: Random or 24 hour urine collection
Turnaround: 1-2 days
Ref. Range: 0.05-0.08 g/24 h
Protein Creatinine Ratio
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH
Specimen: Random urine collection in plain container
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University
Hospital wards/ OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working
days.
Ref. Range: 0-15mg/mmol
Protein C
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Requests should be received in the laboratory within 2 hours of
phlebotomy. Details of anticoagulant therapy required. Must fill bottle to
mark. Send immediately to Coagulation Laboratory. Pre-analytical
preparation required before referral. Refer to the testing guidelines at St
James Thrombophilia guidelines (click on link) for details on
thrombophilia testing.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 177 of 200
Protein S
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Requests should be received in the laboratory within 2 hours of
phlebotomy. Must fill bottle to mark. Details of anticoagulant therapy
required. Send immediately to Coagulation Laboratory. Pre-analytical
preparation required before referral. Refer to the testing guidelines at St
James Thrombophilia guidelines (click on link) for details on
thrombophilia testing
Prothrombin Time (PT)*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 2.7 mL blood in a 0.109m Sodium Citrate tube. (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are
available).
Comment: Details of anticoagulant therapy required. Do not refrigerate specimens for
PT. Must fill bottle to mark.
Turnaround: 2 hrs.
Ref. Range: Adult: 9.7 – 11.8 seconds. Refer to report for age specific ranges.
Prothrombin Gene Mutation
Laboratory: Referred to National Centre for Hereditary Coagulation Disorders
(NCHCD), St James Hosp, James St, Dublin 8, 01 4162956
Specimen: EDTA sample x 1
Comments: Must reach the laboratory within 2 days of phlebotomy. Refer to the testing
guidelines at St James Thrombophilia guidelines (click on link) for details
on testing restrictions.
PSA Free
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
PSA Total
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, Mayo University Hospital.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 49Y 0.0 – 2.5 μg/L
59Y 0.0 – 3.5 μg/L
69Y 0.0 – 4.5 μg/L
79Y 0.0 – 6.5 μg/L
120Y 0.0 – 7.5 μg/L
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 178 of 200
PTH Related Peptide – Sample must be Frozen Immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Pyruvate Kinase Screening (PK)
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Laboratory,
St James’s Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 179 of 200
Q
Q Fever (Rickettsia burnetti) antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Quantiferon TB Test
Laboratory: Referred to Microbiology Dept, Mater Hospital, Dublin
Comment: Special blood kit and request form required, available from Microbiology
Laboratory Mayo University Hospital.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 180 of 200
R
Red Cell Folate
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Reducing Substances (Urine and Faeces)- Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Renin – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Biochemistry Laboratory, St James’s Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Comment: Deliver to the Laboratory immediately. Centrifuge, separate and freeze at
-20oC until dispatch.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual
Reticulocyte Count*
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood, (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are available).Same
sample can be used for both FBC and RETIC.
Comment: Requests should be received in the laboratory within 8 hours of phlebotomy.
Turnaround: 3 hrs
Ref. Range: 20-90x109/L
Rheumatoid Factor IgM
Laboratory: Immunology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Rickettsia sp. antibodies
See “Q. Fever”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 181 of 200
Ristocetin Co_Factor (RiCOF)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Prior authorization by Consultant Haematologist or SPR. Arrange with
coagulation laboratory Galway University Hospital. Phone 091 544995
before taking specimen. Must fill bottles to mark.
Rohypnol
Laboratory: Referred to Toxicology Section, State laboratory, Abbotstown, Dublin 15
Specimen: 20 – 50 mL plain urine collected ASAP after episode
Comment: Assayed only when legal proceedings are involved.
Turnaround: 1 – 3 weeks
Ref. Range: On report form.
Rubella IgG Antibody
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Rubella IgM Antibody - Serology
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 182 of 200
S
Salicylate
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP samples treated as in-house.
Ref. Range: Not normally detected
Selenium
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Serum Electrophoresis:
Refer to Immunoglobulins IgG / IgA / IgM and Serum Protein Electrophoresis
SHBG
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Sickle Screen* (Solubility Screening Test for HbS)
Laboratory: Haematology
Specimen: 2 x 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood
Comment: Must give clinical details, transfusion history and ethnic origin of patient.
Test not valid on children under six months of age. All sickle screen
requests are referred for further confirmation of results by HPLC. Refer to
Haemoglobinopathy Screen for HPLC sample requirements.
Turnaround: 3 days for screen. 4 weeks for confirmation by HPLC
Report: Positive / Negative
Sirolimus
Laboratory: Referred to Renal Section, Clinical Chemistry, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.beaumont.ie/media/LaboratoryUserManual1.pdf
Skin Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any significant pathogen & sensitivities if required
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 183 of 200
Sodium
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 04W 132 – 147 mmol/L
12M 129 – 143 mmol/L
16Y 132 – 145 mmol/L
65Y 136 – 145 mmol/L
120Y 136 – 146 mmol/L
Sodium (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Random or 24 hour urine collection in plain container.
Turnaround: 1-2 days
Ref. Range: 40 – 220 mmol/24 h, no ref range for random samples.
Somatomedin (IGF1)
See “IGF1”
Sputum Culture*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Purulent specimen in 60ml sterile container stored at RT. Delay >2hours,
refrigerate at 2-8°C.
Comment: Salivary or Mucoid specimens will be discarded. Specimen >48 hours old
will be rejected for culture.
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Any significant pathogen & sensitivities if required.
Sputum - Cytology
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: 0.5 – 20 mL spontaneous or induced fresh specimen collected into a 30 mL
universal container
Comment: Indicate clinical history on test requisition and reason for test. Sputum must
be deeply coughed from lungs. Avoid oral contamination and saliva. Early
morning upon rising is the preferred collection time. Refrigerate if
necessary.
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 5 days
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist
including reporting of malignant and non malignant cells and detection of
infectious organisms.
Sudan Black B (Cytochemical Stain)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 184 of 200
Sural Nerve Biopsies
Laboratory: Histopathology referred to University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Immediate dispatch to laboratory where tissue pieces are
osmicated/formalin fixed.
Surgical Tissue Specimens for Histological Examination
Laboratory: Histopathology
Specimen: Formalin fixed tissue.
Comment: Ensure the tissue is fully immersed in formalin.
Turnaround: ≥80% of results are returned in 7 days
Report: Histopathological diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist.
Sweat Test
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Sweat collected by the Macroduct Sweat Collection System
By appointment only: Contact Biochemistry.
Turnaround: Sweat chloride analysed within 3 working days.
Ref. Range: Sweat Chloride
Normal 0 – 40 mmol/L
Borderline 40 – 60 mmol/L
Abnormal: >60 mmol/L
Synovial Fluid*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Specimen in sterile container. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: Any significant pathogen & sensitivities if required.
Synovial Fluid - Cytology
See Joint Aspirate”
Syphilis (Treponema pallidum) antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Virology Galway University Hospital
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Syphilis (Treponema pallidum) PCR
Laboratory: Referred to Micropathology Ltd, University of Warwick Science Park,
Venture Centre, Sir William Lyons Road, Coventry, CV4 7EZ, UK
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.micropathology.com/services-az.php
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 185 of 200
T
T3 (Free)
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry. University Hospital Galway .
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Tacrolimus (FK506 / Prograf)
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry. University Hospital Galway .
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Tambocor Levels
See “Flecainide”
TCR gene Rearrangement
Laboratory: Referred to Central Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory,
St James’s Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Testosterone
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Tetanus Toxoid IgG Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology Laboratory, St James’s Hospital, Dublin 8
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://search.stjames.ie/Labmed/
Theophylline
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Take specimen immediately before next dose (trough specimen)
Thiamine
See “Vitamin B”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 186 of 200
Thiopurine methyl transferase (TPMT)
Laboratory: Referred to Dept. of Clinical Biochemistry, City Hospital, Dudley Road,
Birmingham, B18 7QH
Specimen: 5.0 mL K+ EDTA blood
Turnaround: 1 – 3 weeks
Ref. Range: Deficient: < 5.0 nmol/gHb/hour
Low Activity: 6 – 34 nmol/gHb/hour
Normal Activity: 35 – 79 nmol/gHb/hour
High Activity: > 80 nmol/gHb/hour
http://www.cityassays.org.uk/tpmt.html
Throat Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: Haemolytic Streptococci isolated/Not isolated.
Thrombophilia Screen (incl: PT/INR, APTT, Fibrinogen, Anti Thrombin 111, Protein
C, Protein S, Free Protein S, APC_R, Lupus Like Anticoagulant)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Requests should be received in MUH laboratory within 4 hours of
phlebotomy for pre-analytical preparation, Mon – Fri. Clinical details and
relevant patient and family history are required. Testing should not be
done during thrombotic period or while the patient is on anticoagulant
therapy. Must fill bottles to mark. Refer to the St James Thrombophilia
guidelines (click on link) for details on thrombophilia testing
requirements.
Thyroglobulin
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Thyroxine Free (Free T4)
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway .
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
T3 Free (Free T3)
See “T3”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 187 of 200
Tissue / Biopsy for Culture*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Specimen in Sterile container for routine culture and microscopy. Delay > 2
h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: Samples received in fixative are unsuitable for culture.
Turnaround: Provisional result available after 3 working days
Report: Any significant pathogens & sensitivities if required.
Tobramycin*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: 5.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube.
Comment: State date and time collected and if Peak or Trough specimen
Turnaround: 5-6 day.
Ref. Range: Pre-dose/Trough: <1.0mg/L (once daily) & <2.0mg/L Multi dose).
TORCH screen antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Virology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Herpes Simplex antibody test no longer included unless in exceptional
circumstances and following approval by Prof. Cormican
Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, Mayo University Hospital.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
120y 50-85 umol/l 53-95 umol/l
Toxicology / Drug Screen Urine (Benzodiazepines, barbiturates, opiates, cocaine,
propoxyphene, cannibis, amphetamine, methadone, phencyclidine, phenothiazine,
alcohol)
Laboratory: Referred to Beaumont Toxicology Laboratory, Beaumont Hospital,
Beaumont Road, Dublin 9
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.poisons.ie/docs/Poisons-Lab-Assay-Book.pdf
Comment: Contact Consultant Chemical Pathologist (through Biochemistry Lab)
who will advise as to the necessity for having the assay sent to Beaumont
as an emergency
Toxicology: Available in Mayo University Hospital- see Alcohol, Paracetamol,
Salicylate
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 188 of 200
Toxoplasma gondi antibody /avidity/dye test
Laboratory: Referred to the Serology Department, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Available only in specific cases and approval of a Consultant
Microbiologist
TPN Monitoring
See “Micronutrient Monitoring”
Transferrin Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry. Mayo University Hospital.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
04D 1.3 – 2.7g/l 1.3 – 2.7 g/l
120y 2.0 – 3.6g/l 2.0 – 3.6 g/l
% Transferrin Saturation
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, Mayo University Hospital.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
120y 21-45 % 19-43 %
Transfusion Reaction Investigation
Laboratory: Blood Transfusion, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Haematology, National
Blood Centre
Tests: FBC*, Coag*, Blood Film* (Haematology),
Group and Screen* (2 x 6mls samples), DAT* (Blood Transfusion),
LDH, U/E Bilirubin, LFT’s, IgA Levels, Haptoglobins (Biochemistry),
Haemoglobinuria, Bacterial Screening of Patient (Microbiology), Blood
Product Culture of units transfused (National Blood Centre)
Specimen: See individual test details.
Turnaround: 24 hours to 7-9 days
Report: See individual tests.
Transthyretin (pre-albumin)
See “Pre-albumin”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 189 of 200
Trichomonas vaginalis*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Urethral or Endo-Cervical swab in transport medium (charcoal).
Comment: Only on request or as part of a STI screen
Turnaround: 3 working days
Report: Trichomonas vaginalis detected / not detected.
Triglycerides
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube (preferably fasting)
Turnaround: 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 0.84 – 1.71 mmol/L
Troponin T
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube. Troponin only done on samples received in
Biochemistry unspun within 24 hrs post phlebotomy.
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP samples treated as in-house.
Ref. Range: 4-14 ng/L
Tryptase (Mast Cell)
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: For investigation of anaphylaxis serial samples are required and the
timing must be specified.
Timing of samples: Within 1 hour post reaction
At 3 hours post reaction
At 24 hours post reaction (baseline)
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry. Mayo
University Hospital.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: 06D 0.70 mIU/L - 15.20 mIU/L
03M 0.72 mIU/L - 11.00 mIU/L
12M 0.73 mIU/L - 8.35 mIU/L
06Y 0.70 mIU/L - 5.97 mIU/L
11Y 0.60 mIU/L - 4.84 mIU/L
20Y 0.51 mIU/L - 4.30 mIU/L
120Y 0.27 mIU/L - 4.20 mIU/L
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 190 of 200
TSH Receptor Antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
T.T.P Screen
Refer to ADAMTS 13
Tuberculosis Testing
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology - Galway University Hospital
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 191 of 200
U
UIBC (Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity)
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Ulcer Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: Any significant isolates / No pathogens isolated.
Urea
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Age Male Female
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25Y 3.1 – 7.1 mmol/L 2.4 – 6.1 mmol/L
34Y 3.2 – 7.3 mmol/L 2.5 – 6.4 mmol/L
44Y 3.2 – 7.5 mmol/L 2.7 – 6.7 mmol/L
54Y 3.3 – 7.9 mmol/L 2.9 – 7.4 mmol/L
64Y 3.4 – 8.2 mmol/L 3.3 – 8.0 mmol/L
120Y 3.3 – 9.6 mmol/L 3.4 – 8.0 mmol/L
Urea (Urine)
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: Random or 24 hour urine collection
Turnaround: 1-2days
Ref. Range: 250 – 570 mmol/24hrs. No reference range for random sample.
Uric Acid
Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry, MUH.
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube
Turnaround: ED or urgent sample – 1 hour approx. Non urgent Mayo University Hospital
wards/OPD – 3 hours approx. GP Healthlinks within 2 working days.
Ref. Range: Male: 208 – 428 μmol/L Female: 155 – 357 μmol/L
Uric Acid (Urine) *
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 192 of 200
Urine – Cytology for Malignant Cells
Laboratory: Histopathology (Cytology)
Specimen: Collect 10 – 20 mL fresh voided or catheterized urine specimen into a
universal bottle containing Shandon Cytospin Collection Fluid (green
fixative solution).
Comment: Indicate clinical history on test requisition and reason for test. For routine
urine collection, emphasize the need for a clean catch specimen. Random
mid-day collection is preferred. Refrigerate overnight if necessary.
Turnaround: ≥80% of reports are available within 5 days.
Report: Cytopathological Diagnosis provided by Consultant Histopathologist
including reporting of malignant and non-malignant cells
Urine Protein Electrophoresis
Laboratory: Referred to Immunology University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Urine Schistosomiasis (see Schistosoma haematobium)
Laboratory: Referred to Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Urethral Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium (charcoal). Delay > 2 hr Refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: All specimens must specify N. gonorrhoeae on request if required
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: Any significant isolates & sensitivities if required.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 193 of 200
V
Vaginal Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium (charcoal). Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Comment: All specimens must specify N. gonorrhoeae on request if required.
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: Any significant isolates & sensitivities if required.
Valproate / Epilim
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Vancomycin*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: 7.0 mL blood in a plain gel tube.
Comment: State time collected and if Peak or Trough specimen – refer to GUH
Antimicrobial guidelines (GAPP) for comprehensive dosing and monitoring
guidelines.
Turnaround: 1 day.
Ref. Range: Trough Aim For: 10-15 mg/L
For serious infections e.g. septicaemia, Endocarditis etc aim for 15-20 mg/ L
Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci (VRE)*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium.. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: VRE isolated / not isolated.
Varicella-zoster Virus IgG / IgM antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Virology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Vasculitis Screen
Refer to Anti Cardiolipin Antibodies
Vincent’s Angina*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Mouth Swab in transport medium (charcoal). Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-
8OC.
Comment: Please state Clinical Details
Turnaround: 3 days.
Report: Gram: Vincents organisms seen / not seen.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 194 of 200
Viral Screen antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Virology, University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Broad spectrum screening is no longer carried out. Antibody to suspected
agents should only be requested. Detailed clinical history should be given
to enable relevant testing to be carried out.
Viral Swab
Laboratory: Referred to National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL)
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://nvrl.ucd.ie/usermanual or contact the NVRL on (01) 716 4401
Vitamin A (Retinol) – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Laboratory: Referred to Dept of Clinical Biochemistry, NGS, Greater Glasgow & Clyde,
PO Box 508, Glasgow G31 2EZ
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at
http://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/professional-support-
sites/biochemistry/gp-handbook-nhsggc/
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxyl Phosphate)
Laboratory: Referred to Dept of Clinical Biochemistry, NGS, Greater Glasgow & Clyde,
PO Box 508, Glasgow G31 2EZ
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/Turnaround
Time and Reporting at
http://www.nhsggc.org.uk/about-us/professional-support-
sites/biochemistry/gp-handbook-nhsggc/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 195 of 200
Vitamin B12
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: To be received in the laboratory within 8 hours of phlebotomy.
Vitamin D (25 Hydroxy Vitamine D3 / Hydroxycholecalciferol)
Acute Care samples:
Laboratory: Referred to Clinical Biochemistry University Hospital Galway.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Primary Care samples:
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) – Sample must be frozen immediately
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
VMA
See “Catecholamine’s / Adrenaline / Noradrenaline / Dopamine”
Von Willebrands Factor Antigen (vWF:Ag)
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology University Hospital Galway
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.saolta.ie/documents/laboratory-medicine-user-guide-galway-
university-hospitals
Comment: Requests should be received in the laboratory within 8 hours of
phlebotomy. Must fill bottle to mark.
VRE *
See “Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci”
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 196 of 200
W
White Blood Cell Differential Cell Count *
Laboratory: Haematology.
Specimen: 3.0 mL K3 EDTA blood, (1.3 mL Paediatric tubes are available) or Blood
film. Laboratory will make blood film on fresh blood.
Comment: White Cell Differential will be done automatically on all MUH fresh FBC
specimens. Please specify on request form if differential is required on GP
specimens. As EDTA artifacts can appear within 2 hours of phlebotomy it is
important that film are made from fresh blood (less than one day old)
changes.
Turnaround: 3 hrs.
Ref. Range: See report form.
White Cell Enzyme
Laboratory: Referred to Willink Unit,
Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Pendlebury, Manchester M27 4HA
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at:
http://www.cmft.nhs.uk/media/209835/lab%20handbook%202_0.doc
Comment: Take Monday to Wednesday only. State specific assays required, Make
prior arrangement with Haematology Laboratory.
White Cell Enzyme Studies (Screen for Hurler’s)
See “Lysosmal Enzyme Screen”
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Laboratory: Referred to Microbiology Laboratory, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital,
Crumlin, Dublin
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.olchc.ie/Healthcare-Professionals/Laboratory-Handbook/
Whooping Cough antibodies
See “Bordetella pertussis.”
Wound Swab*
Laboratory: Microbiology
Specimen: Swab in transport medium. Delay > 2 h refrigerate @ 2-8OC.
Turnaround: 3 working days.
Report: Any significant pathogens & sensitivities if required.
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 197 of 200
X
Y
Yersinia
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 198 of 200
Z
Zap 70 / VH genes
Laboratory: Referred to Haematology Research Laboratory, Royal Bournemouth
Hospital, BH77
Comment: 20mls Blood taken into non gel Lithium Heparin tubes (bottles available
from Haem Lab).Samples must reach Referral Lab within 72 hours of
phlebotomy. Prior arrangement must be made with Consultant
Haematologist before requesting test. Samples can only be taken Monday
to Wednesday before 11.30 a.m. Contact the MUH Haematology Lab
before taking samples in order to arrange transport.
Zinc
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
ZNT8 antibodies
Laboratory: Referred to Eurofins Biomnis Ireland Laboratories Ltd.,
Three Rock Pd., Sandyford Business Est. Sandyford, Dublin 18.
Refer to the Laboratory User Guide for Specimen Requirements/
Turnaround Time and Reporting at
http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 199 of 200
LIST OF REFERRAL LOCATIONS Links to laboratory handbook if available are provided
Beaumont Laboratory, Beaumont Hospital Dublin 9
Belfast City Hospital, 52 Lisburn Road, Belfast, County Antrim
Eurofins Biomnis Laboratory Dublin, 3 Rock Road, Sandyford Ind Est, Sandyford
Dublin 18. List of test are available http://www.biomnis.com/en/services/test-guide/
CMD Lab, St James Hospital, Dublin 8. Information is available here
Endocrine Lab, Mater Hospital , Eccles St, Dublin 7
Freeman Hospital, High Heaton, Newcastle-Upon Tyne NE7 7DN, England
Glasgow Royal Infirmary, 84 Castle Street, Glasgow G4 OSF Scotland.
Guys Hospital, Londonbridge, London SEI 9RT England.
Haematology Department St James Hospital Dublin, James St Dublin 8.
Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London WCIE 6AU
HPA Collingdale Lab , Collingdale London NW9 5 HT England
HPA, Bristol BS2 8EL
IBTS, St James St, Dublin 8.
James Spence institute of Child Health, Royal Victoria Infirmary , Newcastle –Upon
–Tyne NE1 4 LP, England
Medical Biochemistry, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff CF 14 4XW.
Additional available here
Metabolic Lab, Children’s University Hospital, Temple St Dublin 1
Micropathology Ltd, University of Warwick Science Park, Venture Centre, Sir
William Lyons Road, Coventry, CV4 7EZ, UK. Laboratory manual available Refer
to the Laboratory User Guide at http://www.micropathology.com/services-az.php
National Amyloidosis Centre, Royal Free hospital , London, NW3 2QG
National Centre for Hereditary Coagulation Disorders NCHCD , St James Hospital
Dublin 8
National Genetics Centre , Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12
National Virus Reference Lab, UCD, Belfield Dublin.
Neuroscience Group , Institute of Molecular Medicine , John Radcliffe Hospital,
Oxford
NGS, Greater Glasgow & Clyde , PO Box 508 , Glasgow G31 2 EZ
Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin 12
Protein Reference Unit, Supra regional Ref Unit, Immunology Dept PO Box 894
Sheffield S57 YT
Public Analysts Laboratory, Seamus Quirke Road , Galway
Public Analysts Laboratory, Sir Patrick Duns Hospital ,Lower Canal St Dublin
Public Health Laboratory, Cumberland Infirmary , Carlisle, CAZ 7HY, England
MUH Pathology Department User Manual PATH/PD/001 Edition 9 Effective Date: 3rd August 2018 Page 200 of 200
Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot St, Liverpool, L7 8XP
SAS Peptide Hormone section, Clinical Laboratory , Royal Surrey County Hospital,
Egerton Road, Guilford GU2 7XX
SAS Unit for Trace Elements , Southampton General Hospital , Southampton, SO16
6YD, England
Sheffield Children’s Hospital, Sheffield S10 2TH.
Sheffield Regional Cytogenetics service, Sheffield Children’s NHS Trust , Western
Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TH, UK
Sheffield Teaching Hospital , Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Rd, Sheffield S10
2JF
Southmeade Hospital, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS10 5NB, England
St James Hospital, James St, Dublin 8.
St Thomas Hospital, Lambeth Palace Road, London, SE1 7EH
St Vincent’s Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin 4
Children’s University Hospital, Temple St, Dublin 1
Toxicology Unit, Beaumont Hospital Dublin 9
Toxicology Unit, Kings College Hospital Denmark hill London SE5 9A5
Toxicology Unit, State Laboratory, Abbottstown, Dublin 15
Trace Element Lab, Medical Biochemistry, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff
CF14 4
Willink Biochemical Genetics, Genetic Medicine, 6th
Floor, Pod 1, St Mary’s
Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL.