RANGE OF SERVICES
Most samples submitted to the laboratory will be processed same day, which allows improved accuracy as the sample has not deteriorated, and the clinician and client can obtain same day results. Although we undertake most tests in-house, a small number of external laboratories are used for specialised tests in the areas of serology and pathology. Samples will be processed and shipped to ensure they arrive in optimal condition, and the results will be interpreted and relayed to the clinician and/or client.
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HAEMATOLOGY
BIOCHEMISTRY
MICROBIOLOGY
The laboratory has an Advia 2120i haematology analyser, which uses the gold-standard flow cytometry peroxidase methodology allowing accurate differentiation of myeloid and lymphoid cells, as well as direct measurement of intracellular haemoglobin, and accurate platelet counts. When required, the automated cell count is complemented by manual analysis of blood smears.
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We use a Tokyo Boeki Prestige 24i biochemistry analyser to measure the proteins, substrates and enzymes that are present in the serum fraction of the blood. Electrolytes are measured on an EX-D Jokoh analyser. Any out-of-hours emergency biochemistry is performed by trained nurses and vets on these machines or on a dedicated out-of-hours automated analyser.
A variety of samples are submitted for the isolation and identification of potential bacterial and fungal pathogens. We use direct microscopy, culture under aerobic, microaerophilic and anaerobic conditions, Antibiotic sensitivity testing is performed to ensure appropriate antibiotic is used for treatment.
TRACHEAL WASH CYTOLOGY AND BACTERIOLOGY
ENDOCRINOLOGY
PCR
A sample of cells from the respiratory tract of the horse is delivered to the laboratory where the cells are concentrated onto a slide, stained, identified and quantified. If necessary, the wash is cultured overnight so that significant bacteria can be identified and their susceptibility to different antibiotics determined.
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The laboratory provides precise quantitative tests using an automated immunoanalyser to measure the levels of progesterone, cortisol, ACTH, T4 and insulin in a sample of blood. Results can be returned in as little as 30 minutes after delivery of the sample to the lab.
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As an adjunct to classic microbiology b culture, we offer a variety of quantitative PCR assays to enable rapidly determining the presence bacterial and viral pathogens in diverse sample types such as faeces, blood, and swab sites.
