Test Information

To locate information on a particular test, click on the relevant letter and follow the trail. eg To find information on sample requirements, test availability and turnaround time for FeLV, click on "F" and then click on the relevant test.

* Tests referred to external laboratories

To download a copy of our lab request form please click link below:

LAB REQUEST FORM

Please note: All turnaround times are quoted from the time of arrival at laboratory Monday-Friday
Faecal Analysis
Suitable Sample:
  • Fresh faeces

 
Unsuitable Sample:
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2g faeces
Turnaround Time:
  • 24 - 48 hours
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test
Comments:
  • Small animal faecal analysis includes wet micro, Gram stain and concentration for cysts and ova.
  • Large animal faecal analysis includes wet micro, Gram stain, concentration for cysts and ova plus a faecal egg count.
Internal Use Only:
Internal Codes: F05
Internal Laboratory: VP
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal Analysis with Culture & Sensitivity
Suitable Sample:

  • Fresh faeces (important for culture)

  • NOTE: If sample cannot be cultured immediately, store at room temperature prior to transport to the laboratory.
Unsuitable Sample:
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 10 gm
Turnaround Time:
  • 24 hours for wet micro, 12 -24 hours, 48 hours
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test

 
Comments: Includes (small animal):
  • Wet microscopy
  • Gram stain
  • Cysts & ova
  • C&S
Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
Internal Codes: F07
Internal Laboratory: VP
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal Concentration for Cysts & Ova
Suitable Sample:
  • Fresh faeces

 
Unsuitable Sample:
  • Faecal
  • Rectal swab
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 5-10 gm

 
Turnaround Time:
  • 24 hours

 
Request/Test Included in:
  • Faecal wet micro with C&O
  • Faecal concentration C&O
  • Faecal analysis
  • Faecal analysis with C&S
Comments:
  • This is a qualitative, not quantitative test.
  • Method includes flotation for Giardia.
Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
Internal Codes:
  • F03
  • F05
  • F07
  • P09
Internal Laboratory: VP
Internal Test Volume: 2 gm (approximately the size of two peas)
Faecal Culture & Sensitivity
Suitable Sample:
  • Fresh faeces
  • Faecal swab can be used, but is suboptimal.
    NOTE: If sample cannot be cultured immediately, store at room temperature prior to transport to the laboratory.
Unsuitable Sample:
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2-3 gm (a larger volume such as 10 gm is better, especially for maintaining anaerobic conditions in the sample).

 
Turnaround Time:
  • 12-24 hours for culture of routine organisms
  • 48 hours for sensitivity on routine organisms
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test

 
Comments:
  • Faecal culture includes a wet microscopy.
  • Transport to the laboratory without refrigeration.
  • At the laboratory samples are stored at 4oC to minimise overgrowth, but this will kill the more fragile organisms and poorer results will be obtained from samples stored before C&S is requested.
  •  
Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
Internal Codes:
  • F01
  • F02
  • F07
Internal Laboratory: VP
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal Egg Count (single & pooled) 		(Egg Count -faecal; single & pooled)
Suitable Sample:
  • Fresh faeces

 
Unsuitable Sample:
  • Faecal swab

 
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2-3 gm (a larger volume such as 10 gm is better)

 
Turnaround Time:
  • 1-2 days, Monday to Friday

 
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test

 
Comments:
  • May be done on either individual animals or a pooled samples
  • A pooled sample may contain faeces from a maximum of 10 animals
  • The saturated salt solution is efficient at floating common parasite eggs, but does not float trematode eggs and some tapeworm eggs. Specific procedures are required for these parasites.
  • Faeces are stable for 3 days when refrigerated.
Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
Internal Codes:
  • P05
  • P06
  • P07
Internal Laboratory: VP
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal multiplex PCR panel - Canine*
Suitable Sample:
  • Faeces
Unsuitable Sample:
  • Blood
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2g
Turnaround Time:
  • 7 days
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test
Comments:

  • Referred test

The panel includes:

  • Salmonella spp. DNA            
  • Campylobacter jejuni DNA         
  • Giardia spp. DNA                   
  • Cryptosporidium canisDNA          
  • Parvovirus DNA                   
  • Coronavirus RNA           
Internal Use Only:


Internal Codes: G18
Internal Laboratory: Vetnostics
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal multiplex PCR panel - Equine*
Suitable Sample:
  • Faeces
Unsuitable Sample:
  • Blood
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2g
Turnaround Time:
  • 7 days
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test
Comments:

  • Referred test
PCR panel includes:

  • Lawsonia intracellularis
  • Clostridium difficile Toxin A/Toxin B
  • Clostridium perfringens Toxin A/CPE toxin/cpb2 toxin/netF toxin
  • Salmonella spp
  • Equine coronavirus
  • Rotavirus
  • Cryptosporidium
Internal Use Only:

Vetnostics
Internal Codes: G38
Internal Laboratory: Vetnostics
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal multiplex PCR panel - Feline*
Suitable Sample:
  • Faeces
Unsuitable Sample:
  • Blood
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2g
Turnaround Time:
  • 7 days
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test
Comments:

  • Referred test
The panel includes:

  • Salmonella spp. DNA            
  • Campylobacter jejuni DNA         
  • Giardia spp. DNA                   
  • Cryptosporidium felis DNA          
  • Toxoplasma gondii DNA                      
  • Tritrichomonas foetus DNA      
  • Parvovirus DNA                   
  • Feline Coronavirus RNA           
Internal Use Only:

WDP
Internal Codes: G24
Internal Laboratory: WDP
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal multiplex PCR panel PLUS - Canine*
Suitable Sample:
  • Faeces
Unsuitable Sample:
  • Blood
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2g
Turnaround Time:
  • 7 days
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test
Comments:

    • Referred test
    Test includes the multiplex PCR panel and a concentration for cysts and ova. 

    • The panel includes:

    • Salmonella spp. DNA            
    • Campylobacter jejuni DNA         
    • Giardia spp. DNA                   
    • Cryptosporidium canisDNA          
    • Parvovirus DNA                   
    • Coronavirus RNA           
Internal Use Only:

Goes to WDP
Internal Codes: G18A
Internal Laboratory: WDP
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal multiplex PCR panel PLUS - Feline*
Suitable Sample:
  • Faeces
Unsuitable Sample:
  • Blood
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2g
Turnaround Time:
  • 7 days
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test
Comments:

  • Referred test
Test includes the feline multiplex PCR panel and a concentration for cysts and ova. 

    The panel includes:

    • Salmonella spp. DNA            
    • Campylobacter jejuni DNA         
    • Giardia spp. DNA                   
    • Cryptosporidium felis DNA          
    • Toxoplasma gondii DNA                      
    • Tritrichomonas foetus DNA      
    • Parvovirus DNA                   
    • Feline Coronavirus RNA           
Internal Use Only:

WDP
Internal Codes: G24A
Internal Laboratory: WDP
Internal Test Volume:
Faecal Wet Microscopy
Suitable Sample:
  • Fresh faeces
  • Faecal swab
Unsuitable Sample:  
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 2-3 gm (but depends on other tests also being requested)
Turnaround Time:
  • 24 hours
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test (faecal wet micro)
  • Faecal wet micro with C&O
  • Faecal wet micro with Gram, C&S
  • Faecal analysis +/- C&S
Comments:
Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
Internal Codes:
  • F08a
  • F03 is faecal wet micro + cysts & ova
Internal Laboratory: VP
Internal Test Volume: 1 gm for wet micro only (match head size)
Feline anaemia panel PCR*
Suitable Sample:
  • EDTA

 
Unsuitable Sample:
  • PC
  • LH
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 1 mL whole blood

 
Turnaround Time:
  • 7 days

 
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request test 
Comments:
    • Referred test
    PCR panel includes Mycoplasma haemofelis, M. haemominutum and M. turicensis.
Internal Use Only:
Internal Codes: G51
Internal Laboratory: Vetnostics
Internal Test Volume:
Feline Calicivirus Antibody Titre by IFA 		(Calicivirus Antibody Titre (Feline) by IFA)
Suitable Sample:
  • PC

 
Unsuitable Sample:
  • EDTA
  • LH
  • CIT
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 1 mL whole blood

 
Turnaround Time:
    • Run on Wednesday
    • Cut off is 7pm the previous working day
    • Results are reported by 2pm the next day
Request/Test Included in:
  • Individual test
  • Combined feline calicivirus, herpes virus & panleukopenia
Comments: This test is a screening test to determine the level of specific antiviral IgG in the serum.  The titre is used as a measure of the humoral immunity.  It has been shown that a titre of 1:5 on IFA is considered the appropriate levels to provide protective immunity.  Note that it is possible that lower titres are protective and the influence of the cell mediated response cannot be reliably assessed in this manner.
  • Cats with a titre of <1:5 may not be adequately protected and revaccination should be considered.
  • Cats with a titre of  1:5 but <1:20 may consider revaccination.
  • Cats with a titre of  1:20 or greater are considered protected and may not need revaccination.  These animals should have their titre rechecked in approximately one year.
Internal Use Only:
  • Store sample at 2-8oC
  • Serial dilutions are preformed from 1:5 with four-fold up to 1:80 (greater dilutions may be requested in some cases, charges are negotiable).
  • If the test is being done to detect exposure to calicivirus, acute specimens should be drawn at the start of illness and convalescent specimens should be obtained at 2 to 4 week intervals to check titre changes.
  • Samples can still be sent to Biobest in Scotland if the client requests this.
Internal Codes:
  • S26F
  • S26L  (for laboratories)
  • S24F (combination of calici, herpes & panleukpenia)
  • S24L (combination of calici, herpes & panleukpenia for laboratories)
Internal Laboratory: VP
Internal Test Volume:
  • 50-100 uL serum for the individual test
  • 100-200 uL is needed for the combination 
Feline Calicivirus Antibody Titre by VNT* 		(Calicivirus Antibody Titre (feline) by VNT)
Suitable Sample:
  • PC

 
Unsuitable Sample:
  • EDTA
  • LH
  • CIT
  • FL
Minimum Sample Size:
  • 3 ml whole blood

 
Turnaround Time:
  • 10 - 14 days

 
Request/Test Included in:
  • Request Test (must specifically request antibody titre by virus neutralisation test =VNT)
  • Contact laboratory if doing multiple tests for a client
Comments:

  •  

    • Referred test
    Virus neutralisation test (VNT)

  •  
Internal Use Only:
    Samples are sent to Scotland on Mondays and results are returned within two weeks.
      Internal Codes:
      • S26B
      • S26B+ (additional tests in same batch for same client) 
      Internal Laboratory: Biobest, Scotland
      Internal Test Volume: 1 ml clear serum
      Feline Coronavirus (FIP) Titre by IFA       		(Coronavirus (feline) Antibody Titre by IFA)
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC
      • EDTA
      • LH
      • Feline only
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • CIT
      • Species other than cats
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5 mL whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • Run Monday and Thursday
      • Cutoff time 7pm previous working day
      • Results available by 2pm the following day
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      Comments: This is the gold-standard test for measurement of antibodies to feline coronavirus (FCoV).
      • Titres of 1:10 or less are considered seronegative
      • Titres 1:40 or greater considered seropositive
      • Titres <1:10 indicate a low likelihood of coronavirus shedding. If the cat is infected they are likely to stop shedding when isolated.
      • Cats with high titres (1:640 or higher) are almost always shedding virus but can stop shedding upon isolation. This can be demonstrated by a drop in their titre to low or undetectable levels.
      • Cats with clinical FIP usually have a high titre (1:640 or higher), although a few cases may show low titres in the terminal stages (particularly in the effusive forms).
      • The higher the titre the greater the specificity and sensitivity of this test for a diagnosis of FIP. The positive predictive index at 1:1600 is 0.94 and the negative predictive index 0.88 (J Vet Int Med 2003:17 781-790)
      • No single test is suitable to confirm a diagnosis of FIP apart from histopathology. Clinical diagnosis of FIP should be based on a wide variety of tests including history, age, number of cats in household, persistent pyrexia and laboratory data including assessment of acute phase proteins, analysis of effusions, haematology and biochemical tests as well as specific serological tests to list a few.
      Internal Use Only:
      • Serial dilutions are performed from 1:10 with 4-fold dilutions to 1:2560.
      • Although in theory this test can also be done on canine serum, this requires the use of specific canine reagent, plus there are no guidelines for interpretation of canine results, therefore TEST CANNOT BE DONE ON DOGS
      Internal Codes:
      • S23
      • S23L (for laboratories)
      • S23 (FIP Screen)
      • S23L (FIP Screen for laboratories)
      • S16F (canine coronavirus Ab titre)
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: 50 uL
      Feline Geriatric Panel       		(Geriatric Panel - Feline)
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC (ALT, creatinine, total T4)
        AND
      • Urine (wet microscopy, protein:creatinine ratio, SG)
        AND
      • FL (accurate glucose)
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • SC
      • LH
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 2 mL whole blood
      • 2 mL of urine is acceptable, but >5 mL is better
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • FGP (feline geriatric panel)
      Comments:
      • Do not confuse with the FP3 panel

       
      Internal Use Only: If it is unclear if it is an FGP or FP3 being requested, speak to a scientist or pathologist, OR phone the client to clarify
      Internal Codes: FGP
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: See above
      Feline Herpesvirus Antibody Titre by IFA       		(Herpesvirus (Feline) Antibody Titre by IFA)
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC
      • LH
      • EDTA
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • CIT
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1 mL whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • Run on Wednesday
        • Cut off is 7pm the previous working day
        • Results are reported by 2pm the next day
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Individual test
      • Combined feline herpesvirus, calicivirus and panleukopenia
      Comments: This test is a screening test to determine the level of specific antiviral IgG in the serum.  The titre is used as a measure of the humoral immunity.  It has been shown that a titre of 1:5 on IFA is considered the appropriate levels to provide protective immunity.  Note that it is possible that lower titres are protective and the influence of the cell mediated response cannot be reliably assessed in this manner.
      • Cats with a titre of <1:5 may not be adequately protected and should be   
        revaccinated.
      • Cats with a titre of  1:5 but <1:20 should consider revaccination.
      • Cats with a titre of  1:20 or greater are considered protected and may not 
        need revaccination.  These animals should have their titre rechecked in approximately one year.
      Internal Use Only:
      • Store 2-8oC
      • Serial dilutions are preformed from 1:5 with four-fold up to 1:80 (greater dilutions may be requested in some cases, charges are negotiable).
      • If the test is being done to detect exposure to calicivirus, acute specimens should be drawn at the start of illness and convalescent specimens should be obtained at 2 to 4 week intervals to check titre changes.
      • Samples can still be sent to Biobest in Scotland if the client requests this.
      Internal Codes:
      • S27F
      • S27L for laboratories
      • S24F (combination calici, herpes, panleukopenia) 
      • S24L (combination calici, herpes, panleu
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      • 50-100 uL serum for single tests
      • approximately 200 uL of serum for the combined tests
      Feline Herpesvirus Antibody Titre by VNT*       		(Herpesvirus (Feline) Antibody Titre by VNT)
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC
      • EDTA
      • LH

       
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • CIT
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 3 ml whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 3 weeks

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request Test (must specifically request antibody titre by VNT)
      • Contact laboratory if doing multiple tests for the same client in a single submission
      Comments:
        • Referred test
        VNT = virus neutralisation test
      Internal Use Only: Samples are sent to Scotland on Mondays and results are returned within two weeks.
      Internal Codes:
      • S27B
      • S27B+ (additional tests for same client in same submission)
      Internal Laboratory: Biobest, Scotland
      Internal Test Volume: 1 ml clear serum
      Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Antibody Detection RIM
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • PC
      • LH
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • FL

       
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5 ml whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 3 working days
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      • Can be done in combination with FeLV soluble antigen RIM
      Comments:
      • The test performed on a chromatographic immunoassay for FIV antibody that has been validated as a discriminatory test in cats vaccinated against the virus and those naturally infected. In this study none of the vaccinated cats (0/107) were positive using this antibody assay. Kittens less than six months of age were not included in this study (due to the possibility of maternal antibodies being present) (Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 2015)
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: S21R
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: 50 uL serum/plasma
      Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) RIM
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • PC
      • LH
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • CIT
      • FL
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5 ml whole blood
      Turnaround Time:
      • 3 working days
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      • Can be done in combination with FIV RIM
      Comments:
      • Detects soluble antigen. Cats exposed to FeLV will usually test positive within 28 days, but may be longer (up to 90 days).
      • Many infections are transient and a positive result in a healthy cat should be followed by either PCR, or retested by ELISA in 6 weeks. 
      • Vaccination does not interfere with detection of antigen.
      Internal Use Only:

      Anigen
      Internal Codes: S20R
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: 50 uL serum/plasma
      Feline Leukaemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus PCR*
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • PC
      • CIT
      • LH
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 2ml EDTA blood
      Turnaround Time:
      • 7 days
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      Comments:
      • Referred test
      Internal Use Only:
      • Vetnostics
      Internal Codes: G16
      Internal Laboratory: Vetnostics
      Internal Test Volume:
      Feline neurological panel by PCR*       		(Feline neurological PCR panel)
      Suitable Sample:
      • CSF
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • Blood
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5ml
      Turnaround Time:
      • 7 days
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      Comments:

      • Referred test
      Panel includes:

        • Toxoplasma gondii
        • Bartonella spp.
        • Borrelia spp.
        • Cryptococcus sp.
        • Coronavirus
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: G35
      Internal Laboratory: Vetnostics
      Internal Test Volume: 0.5ml CSF
      Feline Panleukopaenia Virus Antibody Titre by IFA
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC
      • EDTA
      • LH
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • CIT
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1 ml whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • Run on Wednesday
        • Cut off is 7pm the previous working day
        • Results are reported by 2pm the next day
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Individual test
      • Combined feline panleukopaenia, calicivirus and herpesvirus
      Comments: This test is a screening test to determine the level of specific antiviral IgG in the serum.  The titre is used as a measure of the humoral immunity.  It has been shown that a titre of 1:5 on IFA is considered the appropriate levels to provide protective immunity.  Note that it is possible that lower titres are protective and the influence of the cell mediated response cannot be reliably assessed in this manner.
      • Cats with a titre of <1:5 may not be adequately protected and revacinnation should considered.
      • Cats with a titre of  1:5 but <1:20 may consider revaccination.
      • Cats with a titre of  1:20 or greater are considered protected and may not need revaccination.  These animals should have their titre rechecked in approximately one year.
      Internal Use Only:
      • Serial dilutions are preformed from 1:5 with four-fold up to 1:80 (greater dilutions may be requested in some cases, charges are negotiable).
      • If the test is being done to detect exposure to calicivirus, acute specimens should be drawn at the start of illness and convalescent specimens should be obtained at 2 to 4 week intervals to check titre changes.
      • Samples can still be sent to Biobest in Scotland if the client requests this.
      Internal Codes:
      • S25F
      • S25L for laboratories
      • S24F (Combination calici, herpes & panleukopenia) 
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      • 50-100 uL serum for single tests
      • approximately 200 uL of serum for the combined tests
      Feline Panleukopaenia Virus Antibody Titre by IFA (Biobest)*
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC

       
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • LH
      • CIT
      • FL
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 3 ml whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 3 weeks

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test (must specifically request test at Biobest)
      • Contact the laboratory if doing multiple tests for a client in the same submission
      Comments:
        • Referred test
        Method used is IFA (No longer HAI)
      • Panleukopenia is also called feline infectious enteritis
      Internal Use Only: Samples are sent to Scotland on Mondays and results are returned within two weeks.
      Internal Codes:
      • S25B
      • S25B+ (additional tests for same client in same batch)
      Internal Laboratory: Biobest, Scotland
      Internal Test Volume: 1 ml clear serum
      Feline respiratory PCR panel       		(Respiratory panel - Feline)
      Suitable Sample:
      • Swab  (see Comments) (not in culture media)

       
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • Sample in transport medium.
      • Frozen sample.
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • Single swab.

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 7 days
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Feline respiratory profile by PCR

       
      Comments: Panel includes:
      • Feline calicivirus
      • Bordetella bronchiseptica
      • Chlamydia felis
      • Feline herpesvirus-1
      • Cryptococcus spp
      • Mycoplasma felis

      Sampling should ideally be performed early in the disease course. Increased chronicity, previous treatment and prior vaccination can reduce the detection of organisms by reducing their expression on epithelial cells. Latent infection of Herpesvirus cannot be detected by PCR as the virus is sequestered in nerve ganglions and is not expressed on the epithelium. The best samples for Feline Respiratory PCR contain large numbers of epithelial cells with minimal other material. Swabs with large amounts of ocular or nasal discharge may not be diagnostic. Use sterile dry swabs (plastic shaft only) to collect samples. The presence of ointment or other medications in the eye can prevent adequate epithelial collection and interfere with the PCR test and should be avoided. Thoroughly swab the conjunctiva, collecting from both eyes if possible. If nasal discharge is present, roll a sterile dry swab firmly along the nasal planum. A final swab should be used to collect a deep pharyngeal sample. If only a single site can be collected, a deep pharyngeal swab is preferred, however collecting from all three sites increases detection of organisms. The swabs should be placed in a single sterile container. The swab stems can be shortened using sterile scissors to fit the swabs into the tube. Do not place swabs in bacterial culture transport media. Label the container and keep the samples cool prior to sending to the laboratory for testing. If culture is also required, please submit a separate swab in transport media.
      Internal Use Only:

      Internal Codes: G11Fel
      Internal Laboratory: Vetnostics
      Internal Test Volume: N/A
      Feline Seizure Panel       		(Seizure Panel - feline)
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA, PC and FL
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • LH
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 2ml whole blood
      Turnaround Time:
      • FP2: 24 hours
      • Cryptococcus Titre: Same day
      • Coronavirus & Toxoplasma serology: Run Monday and Thursday. Results are available by noon the next day. Samples must be at the laboratory the night before testing. 
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request Feline seizure panel
      Comments: Includes: FP2, Toxoplasma IgM and IgG, Cryptococcus and Coronavirus titres,
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: FSP
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Feline Wellness Profile
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • PC
      • FL
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • LH is less suitable for the CBC but can be used.
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1ml EDTA
      • 1ml PC
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test (AVAILABLE JULY 1 2022)
      Comments:
      • Profile includes CBC, total protein, albumin, globulins, glucose, Na, K, Cl, Na/K ratio, calcium, phosphorus, urea, creatinine, ALT, AST, ALP, CK, cholesterol, bilirubin, GGT, total T4.
      • Not included: Lipase
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: FWP
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Fibrinogen
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • SC
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • LH
      • PC
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5 ml whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test

       
      Comments:
      • Is done routinely for large animals.
      • Is done if requested or if indicated (eg history says suspect pyometra) in small animals.

       
      Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
      Internal Codes: H10
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Fine Needle Aspirate Cytology (FNA)       		(Cytology - fine needle aspirate/FNA)
      Suitable Sample:
      • Air-dried smears from FNA (up to 6 smears) from a single lesion
      • Aspirated material (no needles on syringes unless securely capped)
        • Routine external cytology and internal organ cytology are charged differently.
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • Single smear

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 - 48 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test

       
      Comments:
      • Submission of at least two smears or smears from more than one FNA of a lesion increases the chances of a diagnostic sample without increasing the cost.
      • Aspirates from multiple nodes are charged as a single sample.
      • Extra aspirates from separate lesions in the same animal are charged at a reduced rate.
      Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
      Internal Codes:
      • C01
      • C01h
      • C02
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      FIP - Coronavirus Antibody Titre by IFA       		(Coronavirus (Feline) Antibody Titre by IFA)
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC (serum)
      • Feline only
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • LH
      • Species other than cats
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1.0 mL whole blood
      Turnaround Time:
      • Run Monday and Thursday
      • Cutoff time 7pm previous working week day
      • Results available by 2pm the following day
      Request/Test Included in:
      • This test is included in the FIP Screen.
      • It may also be requested as an individual test (Coronavirus Indirect IFA) .
      Comments: This is the gold-standard test for measurement of antibodies to feline coronavirus (FCoV).

      • Titres of 1:10 or less are considered seronegative.
      • Titres 1:40 or greater considered seropositive.
      • Titres <1:10 indicate a low likelihood of coronavirus shedding. If the cat is infected they are likely to stop shedding when isolated.
      • Cats with high titres (1:640 or higher) are almost always shedding virus but can stop shedding upon isolation. This can be demonstrated by a drop in their titre to low or undetectable levels.
      • Cats with clinical FIP usually have a high titre (1:640 or higher), although a few cases may show low titres in the terminal stages (particularly in the effusive forms).
      • The higher the titre the greater the specificity and sensitivity of this test for a diagnosis of FIP. The positive predictive index at 1:1600 is 0.94 and the negative predictive index 0.88 (J Vet Int Med 2003:17 781-790).
      • No single test is suitable to confirm a diagnosis of FIP apart from histopathology. Clinical diagnosis of FIP should be based on a wide variety of tests including history, age, number of cats in household, persistent pyrexia and laboratory data including assessment of acute phase proteins, analysis of effusions, haematology and biochemical tests as well as specific serological tests to list a few.
      Internal Use Only:
      • Serial dilutions are performed from 1:10 with 4-fold dilutions to 1:2560.
      • Although in theory this test can also be done on canine serum, this requires the use of specific canine reagent, plus there are no guidelines for interpretation of canine results, therefore TEST CANNOT BE DONE ON DOGS
      Internal Codes:
      • S23
      • S23L (for laboratories)
      • S23 (FIP Screen)
      • S23L (FIP Screen for laboratories)
      • S16F (canine coronavirus Ab titre)
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: 50 uL
      FIP - Coronavirus direct IFA on effusion fluid       		(Coronavirus/FIP - Direct IFA on Effusion Fluid)
      Suitable Sample:
      • Abdominal or Thoracic fluid, as fresh as possible. 
      • EDTA (if not collected in EDTA transfer to EDTA as soon as possible)
      • Immunohistochemistry can be done on formalin-fixed tissues.
      • Keep sample chilled, not frozen
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • Serum or plasma

       
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1 mL fluid is the absolute minimum
      • 10 mL of fluid is preferab
      Turnaround Time:
      • 14 days

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test (anti-FIP direct IFA)
      • May also be requested as an additional test to fluid cytology
      Comments: This is a highly specific test to demonstrate FIP-related antigens in macrophages in effusion fluid.

      The anti-FCoV direct IFA test detects direct immunofluorescent staining of FIP-related antigens in macrophages in the effusion with anti-FCoV antibodies. This is a very specific diagnostic test as only FIP-infected cats will have virus-infected macrophages. This test has a specificity of 1.00 (100% positive predictive value) but a relatively low sensitivity of 0.75 (75%).  No single test is able to confirm a diagnosis of FIP apart from histopathology. Clinical diagnosis of FIP should be based on a wide variety of tests including history, age, number of cats in household, persistent pyrexia and laboratory data including assessment of acute phase proteins, analysis of effusions, haematology and biochemical tests as well as specific serological tests to list a few.
      Internal Use Only:  
      Internal Codes: S29
      Internal Laboratory:
      • Uni of Sydney (Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Services)
      • Ph 02 9351 7456
      • Fax 02 9351 7421
      Internal Test Volume: Anti FCoV direct IFA requires a minimum of 1 mL of effusion fluid
      Flow cytometry*
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA (less than 24 hours old)
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • PC
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 2ml
      Turnaround Time:
      • 7 days
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      Comments:
      • Referred test
      • Sample must arrive at the Sydney referral laboratory within 48 hours of collection. 
      • Blood samples must be submitted on Monday or Tuesday for overnight courier.
      • A current CBC from a referral laboratory is required.
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: C25R
      Internal Laboratory: Vetnostics
      Internal Test Volume:
      Fluid Analysis & Cytology       		(Cytology - Fluid Analysis)
      Suitable Sample:
      • Fresh smears made at the time of collection are useful.
      • EDTA is optimal for cytology
      • Collect non-anticoagulated if sample is to be cultured; samples in EDTA are not suitable for culture
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • LH

       
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5 mL if cell count is to be done.
      • Smears for cytology are useful. 
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 - 48 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test

       
      Comments:
      • If sufficient fluid, place some in an EDTA tube and the rest in either a PC tube (without activator) or a sterile urine container.
      Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
      Internal Codes:
      • C03
      • C03a (second site, same animal)
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: 0.5 mL
      Fluoroacetate (1080)*
      Suitable Sample:
      • Stomach contents or Vomitus - freeze in a glass container
      • Bait

       
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • Blood, urine

       
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 50 ml stomach contents
      Turnaround Time:
      • Allow  up to 6 weeks (contact laboratory to confirm expected time for availability of results).

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test

       
      Comments:
      • Referred test
      Internal Use Only:
      Chemical Residue Laboratory (CRL)
      Health and Food Sciences Precinct
      39 Kessels Road
      COOPERS PLAINS  QLD  410
      Internal Codes: X08
      Internal Laboratory: CRL QLD
      Internal Test Volume: N/A
      FNA cytology       		(Cytology - Fine Needle Aspirate)
      Suitable Sample:
      • Air-dried smears from FNA (up to six)
      • Aspirated material (no needles on syringes unless securely capped)
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • Single smear

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 - 48 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test

       
      Comments:
      • Submission of at least two smears or smears from more than one FNA of a lesion increases the chances of a diagnostic sample without increasing the cost.
      • Aspirates from multiple lymph nodes are charged as a single sample.
      • Extra aspirates from separate lesions in the same animal are charged at a reduced rate
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes:
      • C01
      • C01h
      • C02
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Foal IgG IDEXX SNAP
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • LH
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1ml
      Turnaround Time:
      • 12 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      Comments:
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: S04I
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Folate - Small Animals
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC

       
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • EDTA 
      • LH
      • Tissue
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.8ml clotted blood - unhaemolyzed (minimum 320uL serum)

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 5 days
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test

       
      Comments:
      • Haemolysis results in red cell folate being measured rather than serum folate.

       
      Internal Use Only:
      • Sample should not be haemolyzed as serum folate is the desired test not red cell folate.
      • Absolute minimum is 320 uL serum.
      Internal Codes: B33 for folate only
      Internal Laboratory: WDP
      Internal Test Volume: 320µl
      FP2
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • FL
      • PC
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1ml in each tube
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request
      Comments:
      • FP2 includes a CBC, CK, AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, glucose, cholesterol, Na, K, Cl, total protein, albumin, globulin, calcium, phosphorus, urine SG and BOHB if indicated.
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: FP2
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      FP3 - Geriatric profile
      Suitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • FL
      • PC
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1ml in each tube
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test.
      • Total T4 can be included.
      Comments:

      FP3 includes CBC, ALT, ALP, GGT, urea, creatinine, glucose, bilirubin, total protein, albumin, globulin, Na, K, urine SG.
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: FP3
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      FP5
      Suitable Sample:
      • FL
      • PC
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1ml in each tube
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test
      Comments:

      The FP5 is the FP2 biochemistry panel, and includes CK, AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, glucose, cholesterol, Na, K, Cl, total protein, albumin, globulin, calcium, phosphorus, urine SG and BOHB if indicated.
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: FP5
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Fractional Excretion (Clearance) Ratio
      Suitable Sample:
      • Urine
        PLUS
      • LH or PC blood
      • It is suggested that the urine sample be obtained first and then the blood collected as it is best if the samples are collected close together.
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • EDTA blood
      • FL blood
      • CIT blood
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 1 mL whole blood
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 - 48 hours

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test (FCR or FER)
      • It is essential to specify which analyte you wish to test for.
      Comments:
      • Fractional clearance ratios are an indication of the proportion of an analyte that is presented to the kidneys that ends up in the urine.
      • This is most often done for Na, K, Cl, Ca and P.
      Internal Use Only:
      • There is a base price for one analyte.
      • Others can be added at a reduced price.
      Internal Codes: B47 and B47a
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Free T4 (Vetpath)
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • LH
      • FL
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5 ml whole blood
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request free T4
      Comments:

      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: E32
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Free T4 by Equilibrium Dialysis
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC 
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • EDTA
      • LH

       
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 2 mL whole blood (requires 200 uL of serum)

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • Allow up to 3 weeks
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test (must be specifically free T4, not total T4)

       
      Comments:
      Internal Use Only:
      • Send to MSU (not Idexx)
      Internal Codes: E16
      Internal Laboratory: MSU
      Internal Test Volume: Need a minimum of 400 uL of serum
      Fructosamine
      Suitable Sample:
      • PC
      • LH
      • EDTA
      Unsuitable Sample:
      • CIT
      • FL
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • 0.5 ml whole blood

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test

       
      Comments:
      • Is an indication of blood glucose over the previous 2-3 weeks and can be used to either distinguish between transient and persistent hyperglycaemia, or to monitor diabetic patients.
      • Hypoproteinemia and hyperthyroidism can cause decreased fructosamine concentrations. 
      • Samples degradation occurs with time, and measurement of fructosamine must occur within 24 hours of collection.
      Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
      Internal Codes: B12
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: 50 uL
      Fungal Culture
      Suitable Sample:
      • Hairs
      • Tissue
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • Very small samples are less likely to yield a positive culture

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 1 to 4 weeks depending on when/if fungus grows

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test (fungal culture)
      • KOH micro & fungal culture
      Comments:
      • Cultures are examined weekly for up to 4 weeks.

       
      Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
      Internal Codes:
      • D04
      • D05
      • D05a
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume:
      Fungal ID and Sensitivity*
      Suitable Sample:
      • Existing fungal culture

       
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      Turnaround Time:
      • 4 weeks

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      Comments:
      • Referred test
      Internal Use Only:
      Internal Codes: D09
      Internal Laboratory: Path West
      Internal Test Volume:
      Fungal Identification
      Suitable Sample: Existing fungal culture
      Unsuitable Sample:  
      Minimum Sample Size:
      Turnaround Time:
      • Up to 4 weeks

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Fungal identification (this is usually after a positive fungal culture result has been reported)

       
      Comments:
      Internal Use Only:
      • Sent to WDP as per DB 09/02/09.
      • (Previously sent tp St John of God Pathology.)
      Internal Codes: D08
      Internal Laboratory: Send to WDP. As per DB 09/02/09 (St John of God previously)
      Internal Test Volume: viable fungal culture
      Fungal Microscopy (KOH)       		(KOH)
      Suitable Sample:
      • Hairs
      • Skin scrape
      Unsuitable Sample:
      Minimum Sample Size:
      • Very small samples are less likely to yield a positive result.

       
      Turnaround Time:
      • 24 hours

       
      Request/Test Included in:
      • Request test (KOH)
      • KOH micro & fungal culture
      Comments:
      • The sensitivity of KOH microscopy is not as high as culture and a negative result does not rule out dermatophyte infection.

       
      Internal Use Only: {Notes for Internal Use}
      Internal Codes:
      • DO1
      • D04
      • DO2
      • DO3 (multiples)
      Internal Laboratory: VP
      Internal Test Volume: