Pathology Handbook

MBS rebatable

No

Yes

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $99.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $99.

Collection & Request Instructions

Test will only be performed after consultation with the Microbiology Registrar.

Please advise laboratory as soon as possible after collection if this test may be required.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $290.

Test will only be performed after consultation with the Microbiology Registrar.

Please advise laboratory as soon as possible after collection if this test may be required.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.  

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

Test will only be performed after consultation with the Microbiology Registrar.

Please advise laboratory as soon as possible after collection if this test may be required.

Test will only be performed after consultation with the Microbiology Registrar.

Please advise laboratory as soon as possible after collection if this test may be required.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $290.

Collection & Request Instructions

Scraping MUST be placed directly on Non Nutrient Agar slope available from Microbiology Laboratory.

A slide should also be inoculated for microscopic examination.  This is in addition to the slide inoculated for bacterial investigation.

Collection after 12 noon on Friday requires prior approval by Medical Microbiologist.

A deep collection of corneal tissue is optimal. Swabs are inadequate and collection of corneal material with swabs should be avoided.

Acceptable specimens are:

corneal biopsies

corneal scrapings

contact lenses and contents of contact lens case

contact lens solution - by request only

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $50.

Scraping MUST be placed directly on Non Nutrient Agar slope available from Microbiology Laboratory.

A slide should also be inoculated for microscopic examination.  This is in addition to the slide inoculated for bacterial investigation.

Collection after 12 noon on Friday requires prior approval by Medical Microbiologist.

A deep collection of corneal tissue is optimal. Swabs are inadequate and collection of corneal material with swabs should be avoided.

Acceptable specimens are:

corneal biopsies

corneal scrapings

contact lenses and contents of contact lens case

contact lens solution - by request only

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Collection & Request Instructions

Scraping MUST be placed directly on Non Nutrient Agar slope available from Microbiology Laboratory.

A slide should also be inoculated for microscopic examination.  This is in addition to the slide inoculated for bacterial investigation.

Collection after 12 noon on Friday requires prior approval by Medical Microbiologist.

A deep collection of corneal tissue is optimal. Swabs are inadequate and collection of corneal material with swabs should be avoided.

Acceptable specimens are:

corneal biopsies

corneal scrapings

contact lenses and contents of contact lens case

contact lens solution - by request only

Scraping MUST be placed directly on Non Nutrient Agar slope available from Microbiology Laboratory.

A slide should also be inoculated for microscopic examination.  This is in addition to the slide inoculated for bacterial investigation.

Collection after 12 noon on Friday requires prior approval by Medical Microbiologist.

A deep collection of corneal tissue is optimal. Swabs are inadequate and collection of corneal material with swabs should be avoided.

Acceptable specimens are:

corneal biopsies

corneal scrapings

contact lenses and contents of contact lens case

contact lens solution - by request only

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $50.

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Collection & Request Instructions

Patient must not have been transfused within 3 months prior to collection.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Patient must not have been transfused within 3 months prior to collection.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

Patient must not have been transfused within 3 months prior to collection.

Patient must not have been transfused within 3 months prior to collection.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Collection & Request Instructions

Collect 2 (TWO tubes). 

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $290.

Collect 2 (TWO tubes). 

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Registration Instructions

The below form must be completed and sent to pathology:

https://handbook.northernpath.org.au/downloads/haem/form-to-accompany-ADAMTS-13-requests.docx

Send one aliquot to Monash and Haematology/Coags scientist to freeze the remaining aliquots in -80C.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $290.

The below form must be completed and sent to pathology:

https://handbook.northernpath.org.au/downloads/haem/form-to-accompany-ADAMTS-13-requests.docx

Send one aliquot to Monash and Haematology/Coags scientist to freeze the remaining aliquots in -80C.

Collection & Request Instructions

Collect 2 (TWO tubes). 

This test is the not  listed on CMBS schedule.

For routine batch testing charge is $280 and for urgent requests $400.

Collect 2 (TWO tubes). 

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $290.

Registration Instructions

The below form must be completed and sent to pathology:

https://handbook.northernpath.org.au/downloads/haem/form-to-accompany-ADAMTS-13-requests.docx

Send one aliquot to Monash and Haematology/Coags scientist to freeze the remaining aliquots in -80C.

The below form must be completed and sent to pathology:

https://handbook.northernpath.org.au/downloads/haem/form-to-accompany-ADAMTS-13-requests.docx

Send one aliquot to Monash and Haematology/Coags scientist to freeze the remaining aliquots in -80C.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $290.

Request Group

ADV

TNA

External Laboratory

V.I.D.R.L.

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Registration Instructions

Adenovirus serology will no longer be available for testing from the 17/01/2024.

Registration Instructions

Register both STV and ALP 

Register both AKI and ALP 

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $90.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Registration Instructions

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $90.

Request Group

RBW

AAF

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $490.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Registration Instructions

Non MBS $178.00

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $490.

Collection & Request Instructions

Department head authorisation required

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Department head authorisation required

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Collection & Request Instructions

Department head authorisation required

Department head authorisation required

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Assay name

Alzheimer

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) testing

Assay name

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) testing

Alzheimer

Preferred Container Type

CSF Micro-tubes

Sarstedt CSF tube

Alternative names

t(8;21)

t(8;21), RUNX1::RUNX1T1Molecular Haematology Laboratory Level 6, Building 77 Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Missenden Rd, Camperdown NSW 2050

Request Group

AGF

RPA

MBS rebatable

No

Yes

Volume (Adults)

10 mL

9 mL

Collection & Request Instructions

Need 10mL of Blood or 3mL of Bone Marrow.

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old.

Specimens should be sent to the Haematology Laboratory on Mondays to Thursdays between 0900-1700 hrs.

Need 9mL of Blood or 1-2mL of Bone Marrow (EDTA).

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old - DO NOT FREEZE. Samples must be received in RPAH lab within 48 hours of collection.

Specimens should be collected on alternate Tuesdays, to be sent to the RPAH lab on the next day Wednesday interstate courier. Liase with the Haematology Registrar before collecting.

External Laboratory

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (PMCC)

Sydney South West Path (SSWPS) - RPA

External Transport Instructions

Molecular Haematology Laboratory
Level 6, Building 77
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
Missenden Rd,
Camperdown NSW 2050

Preferred Container Type

SST

Plain tube- serum (No Gel)
Lithium Heparin (without Gel)

Request Group

MON

DAA

Registration Instructions

Requires approval from Director of Pathology.

Requesting clinician also needs to complete a specific request form for the external laboratory: https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/immunology/documents/request-card.pdf

Requires approval from Director of Pathology.

Requesting clinician also needs to complete a specific request form for the external laboratory: 

https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/immunology/diagnostic-tests/documents/request-card.pdf

Processing Instructions

Centrifuge
Store at Room Temperature

Centrifuge
Store at 4'C

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimen is stable up to seven days at 4^oC.

Frequency

Weekly

Fortnightly

Registration Instructions

Sendaway test to: St Vincent's Hospital, Biochemistry, Level 2 Inpatient Service Building, Princes St, Fitzroy.

Authorisation: Approved sendaway. Dr request sufficient.

Authorisation: Approved sendaway. Dr request sufficient.

Processing Instructions

Centrifuge
Store at Room Temperature

Centrifuge
Aliquot
Store at -20'C

External Laboratory

St Vincent's Pathology

PathWest QEII Medical Centre

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send Frozen on Dry Ice

Collection & Request Instructions

May be indicated in the investigation of ovarian reserve. Preferred volume is 2 mL (minimum volume 1 mL).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $75.

May be indicated in the investigation of ovarian reserve. Preferred volume is 2 mL (minimum volume 1 mL).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

May be indicated in the investigation of ovarian reserve. Preferred volume is 2 mL (minimum volume 1 mL).

Please note test not covered by Medicare. Patient will be required to cover cost ($50 plus transport).

May be indicated in the investigation of ovarian reserve. Preferred volume is 2 mL (minimum volume 1 mL).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $75.

Laboratory

Haematology

Immunology

Registration Instructions

Requesting doctor must consult with Immunopathologist before requesting.

If not requested by Neurology, please seek approval from Director of Pathology. 

Registration Instructions

If this test is requested with combined other allergy tests on the same request, NPV staff are to forward all testing to RCH.

Proceed to testing if it is requested by Dr Ee Lyn Su (immunologist) or Dr Brendan McCann (Paediatrician/Allergist), otherwise the test requires consultant Immunopathologist/Director of Pathology approval.

Specimens will be stored in the Laboratory until the Immunopathologist/Director of Pathology has reviewed the clinical details and/or discussed the request with the requesting clinician.

Cost $50.00

If this test is requested with combined other allergy tests on the same request, NPV staff are to forward all testing to RCH.

Proceed to testing if it is requested by Dr Ee Lyn Su (immunologist) or Dr Brendan McCann/Dr Sabeena Selvarajah (Paediatrician/Allergist), otherwise the test requires consultant Immunopathologist/Director of Pathology approval.

Specimens will be stored in the Laboratory until the Immunopathologist/Director of Pathology has reviewed the clinical details and/or discussed the request with the requesting clinician.

Cost $50.00

Registration Instructions

Request form needs to state the brand name of Asparaginase, otherwise the test cannot be performed. 

Request form needs to state the brand name of Asparaginase, otherwise the test cannot be performed. If not stated on the request form, contact requesting doctor. 

Collection & Request Instructions

Request form needs to state the brand name of Asparaginase, otherwise the test cannot be performed. 

Centrifuge within 2 hours of collection and freeze

Request form needs to state the brand name of Asparaginase, otherwise the test cannot be performed. 

Centrifuge within 2 hours of collection and freeze

Laboratory

Haematology

Immunology

Registration Instructions

Request form needs to state the brand name of Asparaginase, otherwise the test cannot be performed. 

Collection & Request Instructions

Centrifuge within 2 hours of collection and freeze

Request form needs to state the brand name of Asparaginase, otherwise the test cannot be performed. 

Centrifuge within 2 hours of collection and freeze

Request Group

Aspar

ALR

MBS rebatable

No

No

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send Frozen on Dry Ice

Collection & Request Instructions

Department head authorisation required.

Only performed on immunocompromised patients.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $110.

Department head authorisation required.

Only performed on immunocompromised patients.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsibleAs at July 2023, this fefor the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.  

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

Department head authorisation required.

Only performed on immunocompromised patients.

Department head authorisation required.

Only performed on immunocompromised patients.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $110.

External Transport Instructions

PLEASE NOTE

Mycoplasma (MYC) is sent to ALFRED HOSPITAL

Legionella Serology (SLG) and Chlamydia Psittacosis Serology (CLS) are sent to VIDRL

PLEASE NOTE

Mycoplasma (MYC) is sent to ALFRED HOSPITAL

Legionella Serology (SLG) and Chlamydia Psittacosis Serology (CLS) are sent to VIDRL

For further information, please see the Handbook listing for these three individual tests

Request Group

RBW

AVI

Collection & Request Instructions

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $150.

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $150.

Collection & Request Instructions

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $85.

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Liase with Haematology Registrar before collection.

Can be stored at 4'C for up to 3 days.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $85.

Alternative names

BCR-ABL, t(9:22), Philadelphia translocation, quantitative BCR-ABL, p190, BCR, BCR-ABL-PCR.

p190

Minimum/Paediatric Volume

Collection & Request Instructions

A separate container is required for this test.

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Room Temperature

Processing Instructions

Time critical - do not delay handling !
Do Not Centrifuge
Store at 4'C

Registration Instructions

Must receive a 10ml EDTA to perform this test.

Only BCRABL p210 requests on blood samples are performed in-house.

Non-blood samples (eg bone marrow) and/or non-p210 requests (ie rarer transcripts) are to be sent out  - if it is p190, use B19 and send out to PMC. For other rare transcripts, the sendout lab will depend on the requested transcripts (use generic lab-specific code). 

Must receive a 10ml EDTA to perform this test. If no transcript is specified, it will be assumed to be P210.

Only BCRABL p210 requests on blood samples are performed in-house.

Non-blood samples (eg bone marrow) and/or non-p210 requests (ie rarer transcripts) are to be sent out  - if it is p190, use B19 and send out to PMC. For other rare transcripts, the sendout lab will depend on the requested transcripts (use generic lab-specific code). 

Assay name

BCR-ABL Transcription (Sendaway Test)

BCR-ABL P210

Alternative names

BCR-ABL, t(9:22), Philadelphia translocation, quantitative BCR-ABL, p210, p190, BCR, BCR-ABL-PCR.

BCR-ABL, t(9:22), Philadelphia translocation, quantitative BCR-ABL, p210, BCR, BCR-ABL-PCR.

Request Group

BCR

B21

Registration Instructions

Must receive a 10ml EDTA to perform this test.

Must receive a 10ml EDTA to perform this test.

Only BCRABL p210 requests on blood samples are performed in-house.

Non-blood samples (eg bone marrow) and/or non-p210 requests (ie rarer transcripts) are to be sent out  - if it is p190, use B19 and send out to PMC. For other rare transcripts, the sendout lab will depend on the requested transcripts (use generic lab-specific code). 

External Laboratory

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Notes

Collection and transport needs to be sent to refering laboratory within 24hrs of collection.

For bone marrow/non blood samples and/or non-p210 requests, collection and transport needs to be sent to refering laboratory within 24hrs of collection.

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimens to be collected only on Monday to Thursday (Except for where a public holiday falls on the following day). Specimens more than 48 hours old cannot be tested and a recollection will be requested.

Please ensure that blood for molecular testing for BCRABL is collected in a separate dedicated sterile tube. Molecular specimens must NOT be put through any analysers. If unsure please call the Genetics and Molecular Pathology laboratory.

Tube handling must be minimized to prevent contamination.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $250.

Specimens to be collected only on Monday to Thursday (Except for where a public holiday falls on the following day). Specimens more than 48 hours old cannot be tested and a recollection will be requested.

Please ensure that blood for molecular testing for BCRABL is collected in a separate dedicated sterile tube. Molecular specimens must NOT be put through any analysers. If unsure please call the Genetics and Molecular Pathology laboratory.

Tube handling must be minimized to prevent contamination.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimens to be collected only on Monday to Thursday (Except for where a public holiday falls on the following day). Specimens more than 48 hours old cannot be tested and a recollection will be requested.

Please ensure that blood for molecular testing for BCRABL is collected in a separate dedicated sterile tube. Molecular specimens must NOT be put through any analysers. If unsure please call the Genetics and Molecular Pathology laboratory.

Tube handling must be minimized to prevent contamination.

Specimens to be collected only on Monday to Thursday (Except for where a public holiday falls on the following day). Specimens more than 48 hours old cannot be tested and a recollection will be requested.

Please ensure that blood for molecular testing for BCRABL is collected in a separate dedicated sterile tube. Molecular specimens must NOT be put through any analysers. If unsure please call the Genetics and Molecular Pathology laboratory.

Tube handling must be minimized to prevent contamination.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $250.

Registration Instructions

Must receive a 10ml EDTA to perform this test.

Request Group

SMH

MDU

External Laboratory

Melbourne Health Shared Pathology Service

Microbiological Diagnostic Unit

Registration Instructions

1. CSR: to enter BMA only in Ultra Core (BM no longer required) and relevant ancillary test codes

2. BM specimen collector to bring trephine around to AP.

3. AP Registration: enter BMT in AP module

1. CSR: to enter BMA only in Ultra Core (BM no longer required) and relevant ancillary test codes

2. BM specimen collector to bring trephine around to AP.

3. AP Registration: enter BMT in AP module

Request Group

BM, BMA

BMA

Registration Instructions

Two codes are entered BM and BMA.

1. CSR: to enter BMA only in Ultra Core (BM no longer required) and relevant ancillary test codes

2. BM specimen collector to bring trephine around to AP.

3. AP Registration: enter BMT in AP module

MBS rebatable

No

Yes

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $60.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $60.

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $395.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $395.

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $395.

Request Group

CYT

CY

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

External Laboratory

Royal Brisbane & Womens Hospital

PaLMS- Royal North Shore Hospital

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Collection & Request Instructions

A dedicated specimen tube is required for all genetic tests. 

Can be stored at 4C for up to 3 days

Must be approved by Haem Registrar before being sent.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $85.

A dedicated specimen tube is required for all genetic tests. 

Can be stored at 4C for up to 3 days

Must be approved by Haem Registrar before being sent.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Collection & Request Instructions

A dedicated specimen tube is required for all genetic tests. 

Can be stored at 4C for up to 3 days

Must be approved by Haem Registrar before being sent.

A dedicated specimen tube is required for all genetic tests. 

Can be stored at 4C for up to 3 days

Must be approved by Haem Registrar before being sent.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $85.

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $80.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Registration Instructions

Cost to Private patient $150.00

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $80.

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Registration Instructions

Specimen Requirements

1 ml of blood in lithium heparin (Green top) tube

Cost

$100

Specimen Requirements

1 ml of blood in lithium heparin (Green top) tube

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $190.

Collection & Request Instructions

Self collection kit or a flocked swab (Copan FLOQswab 552C or 552.80 - red top).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $46.

Self collection kit or a flocked swab (Copan FLOQswab 552C or 552.80 - red top).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Collection & Request Instructions

Self collection kit or a flocked swab (Copan FLOQswab 552C or 552.80 - red top).

Self collection kit or a flocked swab (Copan FLOQswab 552C or 552.80 - red top).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $46.

Registration Instructions

Collection & Request Instructions

Proton pump inhibitors greatly increase value by several hundred units and therefore invalidate the test. Patient must NOT be on proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for at least 10 days before collection.

Proton pump inhibitors are medication used for reducing the production of acid in the stomach.

Please indicate medications and supply clinical notes.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $60.

Proton pump inhibitors greatly increase value by several hundred units and therefore invalidate the test. Patient must NOT be on proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for at least 10 days before collection.

Proton pump inhibitors are medication used for reducing the production of acid in the stomach.

Please indicate medications and supply clinical notes.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Registration Instructions

Non-medicare refundable test - $52.

No charge for patients with a Northern Health request form.

Collection & Request Instructions

Proton pump inhibitors greatly increase value by several hundred units and therefore invalidate the test. Patient must NOT be on proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for at least 10 days before collection.

Proton pump inhibitors are medication used for reducing the production of acid in the stomach.

Please indicate medications and supply clinical notes.

Proton pump inhibitors greatly increase value by several hundred units and therefore invalidate the test. Patient must NOT be on proton pump inhibitors (PPI) for at least 10 days before collection.

Proton pump inhibitors are medication used for reducing the production of acid in the stomach.

Please indicate medications and supply clinical notes.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $60.

Request Group

RPA

CLM

Collection & Request Instructions

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube is required. 4ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Collect in the morning to allow for the lengthy preparation that must occur on the same day. Specimen must be less than 24 hours old.

A maximum of  1 CMV viral load test per sample type will be performed on any patient in a one week period.

Testing  performed on Roche Ampliprep/ Taqman – LoD 137 IU/ml.

Requests for urgent or more frequent testing must be approved by the Microbiology Unit Head.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $80.

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube is required. 4ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Collect in the morning to allow for the lengthy preparation that must occur on the same day. Specimen must be less than 24 hours old.

A maximum of  1 CMV viral load test per sample type will be performed on any patient in a one week period.

Testing  performed on Roche Ampliprep/ Taqman – LoD 137 IU/ml.

Requests for urgent or more frequent testing must be approved by the Microbiology Unit Head.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.  

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube is required. 4ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Collect in the morning to allow for the lengthy preparation that must occur on the same day. Specimen must be less than 24 hours old.

A maximum of  1 CMV viral load test per sample type will be performed on any patient in a one week period.

Testing  performed on Roche Ampliprep/ Taqman – LoD 137 IU/ml.

Requests for urgent or more frequent testing must be approved by the Microbiology Unit Head.

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube is required. 4ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Collect in the morning to allow for the lengthy preparation that must occur on the same day. Specimen must be less than 24 hours old.

A maximum of  1 CMV viral load test per sample type will be performed on any patient in a one week period.

Testing  performed on Roche Ampliprep/ Taqman – LoD 137 IU/ml.

Requests for urgent or more frequent testing must be approved by the Microbiology Unit Head.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $80.

Minimum/Paediatric Volume

4.0 mL

Optional Container Type

EDTA 4 mL

Collection & Request Instructions

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube is required.

Collect in the morning to allow for the lengthy preparation that must occur on the same day. Specimen must be less than 24 hours old.

A maximum of  1 CMV viral load test per sample type will be performed on any patient in a one week period.

Testing  performed on Roche Ampliprep/ Taqman – LoD 137 IU/ml.

Requests for urgent or more frequent testing must be approved by the Microbiology Unit Head.

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube is required. 4ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Collect in the morning to allow for the lengthy preparation that must occur on the same day. Specimen must be less than 24 hours old.

A maximum of  1 CMV viral load test per sample type will be performed on any patient in a one week period.

Testing  performed on Roche Ampliprep/ Taqman – LoD 137 IU/ml.

Requests for urgent or more frequent testing must be approved by the Microbiology Unit Head.

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Registration Instructions

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON), ACL (ACL)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON), ACL (ACL)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J, MON-JD84B, ACL-DD8GT

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON), ACL (ACL), Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON), ACL (ACL)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J, MON-JD84B, ACL-DD8GT

Registration Instructions

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J, MON-JD84B

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON), ACL (ACL)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON), ACL (ACL)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J, MON-JD84B, ACL-DD8GT

Registration Instructions

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP), Monash (MON)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J, MON-JD84B

Registration Instructions

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J

Cost: $50.00

Location: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP)

Billing: Alfred (ALF), Eastern Health (EAH), Austin (AUP), Royal Melbourne Hospital (SMH), Peter MacCallum (PMC), Dorevitch (DVP)

Doctor: ALF- HS56H, EAH- RB4JY, AUP - KI0AA, SMH-GK4FJ, PMC-CA62J

Collection & Request Instructions

Pre and Post vaccination serum recommended. Send second serum approximately 6 weeks post vaccination.

Instruct patients to return to the same collection centre so that specimen matching can occur.

Single samples only sent on request.

Pre vaccination serum stored for a maximum of 6 months. Pre and post sera are sent together for testing in parallel.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $66.

Pre and Post vaccination serum recommended. Send second serum approximately 6 weeks post vaccination.

Instruct patients to return to the same collection centre so that specimen matching can occur.

Single samples only sent on request.

Pre vaccination serum stored for a maximum of 6 months. Pre and post sera are sent together for testing in parallel.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

Collection & Request Instructions

Pre and Post vaccination serum recommended. Send second serum approximately 6 weeks post vaccination.

Instruct patients to return to the same collection centre so that specimen matching can occur.

Single samples only sent on request.

Pre vaccination serum stored for a maximum of 6 months. Pre and post sera are sent together for testing in parallel.

Pre and Post vaccination serum recommended. Send second serum approximately 6 weeks post vaccination.

Instruct patients to return to the same collection centre so that specimen matching can occur.

Single samples only sent on request.

Pre vaccination serum stored for a maximum of 6 months. Pre and post sera are sent together for testing in parallel.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $66.

Alternative names

CJD Protein, Protein 14-3-3

CJD Protein, Protein 14-3-3, RT-QuIC

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Collection & Request Instructions

Fasting specimen > 12 hrs recommended

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $55.

Fasting specimen > 12 hrs recommended

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

Fasting specimen > 12 hrs recommended

Fasting specimen > 12 hrs recommended

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $55.

Registration Instructions

The cost of this test is AUD$150.00. If patients have a close family history of cystic fibrosis, they may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. For more information about item numbers refer to the Medicare Benefits Schedule Book, Category 6, 1 July 2018 (pages 142-143).

This test available to order and pay online. NB. Patients must have a completed do

EDTA blood: Adult: 4 ml / Child: 1 - 2 ml or Saliva Sample.

Prenatal:

Amniotic Fluid 20 ml

Chorionic Villus 20 mg

Doctors request form to order this test online.

The cost of this test is AUD$190.00 (July 2023). If patients have a close family history of cystic fibrosis, they may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. For more information about item numbers refer to the Medicare Benefits Schedule Book, Category 6, 1 July 2018 (pages 142-143).

This test available to order and pay online. NB. Patients must have a completed do

EDTA blood: Adult: 4 ml / Child: 1 - 2 ml or Saliva Sample.

Prenatal:

Amniotic Fluid 20 ml

Chorionic Villus 20 mg

Doctors request form to order this test online.

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Room Temperature
Use Esky from SDMH or CGMC to Alfred

Room Temperature

Request Group

CYT

CY

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Request Group

CYT

CY

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Room Temperature
Use Esky from SDMH or CGMC to Alfred

Room Temperature

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

External Transport Instructions

Slides and formalin specimens to be transported at room temperature.

All fresh fluids to be transported at 4^oC.

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

External Transport Instructions

Pickup Tuesday and Thursday.

Pickup Tuesday and Thursday.  Specimen is stable at room temperature.

Request Group

CYT

CY

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Request Group

CYT

CY

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Request Group

CYT

CY

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Room Temperature
RoomTemp within Alfred/Esky from External sites

Room Temperature

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Request Group

CYT

CY

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Request Group

CYT

CY

Registration Instructions

When a single shared sample for microbiology and cytology (AP) is received in  CSP:

1) Register for procedure "CYTO". This will produce a specimen label which states "Share with AP". Place this label on the sample.

2) Register for the specific microbiology test

3) Place a "Shared Specimen" label onto the request slip.

4) Make a copy of the request slip for Cytology and mark as "Slip Only" on the request and in  Deliver this slip to

Deliver the specimen to microbiology first. 

See CD_SP_0207 for further details

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Request Group

CYT

CY

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Alternative names

Epstein Barr Virus Serology

Epstein Barr Virus Serology, Glandular fever serology

Collection & Request Instructions

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube or SST is required. 4 ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $145.

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube or SST is required. 4 ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.   

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube or SST is required. 4 ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube or SST is required. 4 ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $145.

Minimum/Paediatric Volume

4.0 mL

Optional Container Type

EDTA 4 mL

Collection & Request Instructions

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube or SST is required.

A separate unopened EDTA blood tube or SST is required. 4 ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Collection & Request Instructions

During normal hours Northorn Pathology Victoria provides an ECG service to the Broadmeadows Health Service and Northen Hospital.

Note, as this test has restricted cover by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $40-67 dependent upon criteria.

During normal hours Northorn Pathology Victoria provides an ECG service to the Broadmeadows Health Service and Northen Hospital.

Note, as this test has restricted cover by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

During normal hours Northorn Pathology Victoria provides an ECG service to the Broadmeadows Health Service and Northen Hospital.

During normal hours Northorn Pathology Victoria provides an ECG service to the Broadmeadows Health Service and Northen Hospital.

Note, as this test has restricted cover by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $40-67 dependent upon criteria.

Alternative names

Antibodies to Extractable Nuclear Antigens, SS-A, SS-B, SCL-70 (topoisomerase), Jo-1, RNP, Sm, Anti-Sm, Anti Smith ab, Anti RNP, Anti Ro, Anti La

Antibodies to Extractable Nuclear Antigens, SS-A, SS-B, SCL-70 (topoisomerase), Jo-1, RNP/U1-RNP, Sm, Anti-Sm, Anti Smith ab, Anti RNP/U1-RNP, Anti Ro, Anti La

Alternative names

Antibodies to Extractable Nuclear Antigens, SS-A, SS-B, SCL-70, Jo-1, RNP, Sm, Anti-Sm, Anti Smith ab, Anti RNP, Anti Ro, Anti La, Anti Topoisomerase

Antibodies to Extractable Nuclear Antigens, SS-A, SS-B, SCL-70 (topoisomerase), Jo-1, RNP, Sm, Anti-Sm, Anti Smith ab, Anti RNP, Anti Ro, Anti La

Laboratory

Haematology

Immunology

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

___

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Send at 4^o with ice pack

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Room Temperature

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Send at 4^o with ice pack

Collection & Request Instructions

Throat/Rectal swabs are preferred over sputum/faeces.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $95.

Throat/Rectal swabs are preferred over sputum/faeces.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

Throat/Rectal swabs are preferred over sputum/faeces.

Throat/Rectal swabs are preferred over sputum/faeces.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $95.

Collection & Request Instructions

REQUIRES APPROVAL FROM CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGIST

If EBV PCR requested on blood, order as EBVLOAD.  

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $95.

REQUIRES APPROVAL FROM CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGIST

If EBV PCR requested on blood, order as EBVLOAD.  

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

MBS rebatable

Yes

No

Collection & Request Instructions

REQUIRES APPROVAL FROM CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGIST

If EBV PCR requested on blood, order as EBVLOAD.  

REQUIRES APPROVAL FROM CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGIST

If EBV PCR requested on blood, order as EBVLOAD.  

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $95.

Registration Instructions

Sendaway test to: St Vincent's Hospital, Biochemistry, Level 2 Inpatient Service Building, Princes St, Fitzroy.

Authorisation: only proceed if ENA panel is positive without identified specificity and if requested by Rheumatology. Otherwise seek approval from Director of Pathology. 

Specific antibody needs to be requested. Confirm with the requesting doctor. 

Sendaway test to: St Vincent's Hospital, Biochemistry, Level 2 Inpatient Service Building, Princes St, Fitzroy.

Authorisation: only proceed if ENA panel is positive without identified specificity and if requested by Rheumatology. Otherwise seek approval from Director of Pathology. 

Specific antibody needs to be requested. Confirm with the requesting doctor. 

Registration Instructions

Sendaway test to: St Vincent's Hospital, Biochemistry, Level 2 Inpatient Service Building, Princes St, Fitzroy.

Processing & dispatch: Performed by NPV CSR

Authorisation: only proceed if ENA is negative and requested by Rheumatology. Otherwise seek approval from Director of Pathology. 

Specific test needs to be requested. Confirm with the requesting doctor. 

Sendaway test to: St Vincent's Hospital, Biochemistry, Level 2 Inpatient Service Building, Princes St, Fitzroy.

Authorisation: only proceed if ENA panel is positive without identified specificity and if requested by Rheumatology. Otherwise seek approval from Director of Pathology. 

Specific antibody needs to be requested. Confirm with the requesting doctor. 

Assay name

ENA Autoantibody Sendaway (Sendaway Test)

Extended ENA Autoantibody (Sendaway Test)

Alternative names

Mi-2 antibody, Anti Mi-2, Ku antibody, Anti-Ku, Pm/Scl antibody, Anti Pm/Scl, PCNA antibody, Anti PCNA, Ribosomal P antibodies, Anti Ribosomal P

Mi-2 antibody, Anti Mi-2, Ku antibody, Anti-Ku, Pm/Scl antibody, Anti Pm/Scl, PCNA antibody, Anti PCNA, Ribosomal P antibodies, Anti Ribosomal P, DFS-70

Laboratory

Haematology

Immunology

Volume (Adults)

6 mL

9 mL

Minimum/Paediatric Volume

2 mL

Registration Instructions

Sendaway test to: St Vincent's Hospital, Biochemistry, Level 2 Inpatient Service Building, Princes St, Fitzroy.

Processing & dispatch: Performed by NPV CSR

Authorisation: Approved sendaway test. Doctor request via APS request form is sufficient.

Resulting: Results are entered by the Immunology scientist.

Sendaway test to: St Vincent's Hospital, Biochemistry, Level 2 Inpatient Service Building, Princes St, Fitzroy.

Processing & dispatch: Performed by NPV CSR

Authorisation: only proceed if ENA is negative and requested by Rheumatology. Otherwise seek approval from Director of Pathology. 

Specific test needs to be requested. Confirm with the requesting doctor. 

Collection & Request Instructions

When requesting the test, specify the antibody to be tested for.   

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimen may be separated for other tests such as elastase.

. Collect random faeces specimen. PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS: URINATE PRIOR TO PERFORMING THE TEST. Please write your full name, date of birth, date and time of collection on the jar/s provided. The stool should be passed into a clean dry container such as a clean empty margarine container or a clean milk carton with the top cut off. Using the scoop built into the lid of the pot, place a scoopful of stool into the pot. Check that the lid is tightly closed and deliver the specimen to the collection centre on the same day as the specimen is collected.  

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $75.

Specimen may be separated for other tests such as elastase.

. Collect random faeces specimen. PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS: URINATE PRIOR TO PERFORMING THE TEST. Please write your full name, date of birth, date and time of collection on the jar/s provided. The stool should be passed into a clean dry container such as a clean empty margarine container or a clean milk carton with the top cut off. Using the scoop built into the lid of the pot, place a scoopful of stool into the pot. Check that the lid is tightly closed and deliver the specimen to the collection centre on the same day as the specimen is collected.  

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Registration Instructions

Estimated Patient Fee $50.00 

Collection & Request Instructions

Specimen may be separated for other tests such as elastase.

Estimated Patient Fee $50.00. Collect random faeces specimen. PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS: URINATE PRIOR TO PERFORMING THE TEST. Please write your full name, date of birth, date and time of collection on the jar/s provided. The stool should be passed into a clean dry container such as a clean empty margarine container or a clean milk carton with the top cut off. Using the scoop built into the lid of the pot, place a scoopful of stool into the pot. Check that the lid is tightly closed and deliver the specimen to the collection centre on the same day as the specimen is collected.  

Specimen may be separated for other tests such as elastase.

. Collect random faeces specimen. PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS: URINATE PRIOR TO PERFORMING THE TEST. Please write your full name, date of birth, date and time of collection on the jar/s provided. The stool should be passed into a clean dry container such as a clean empty margarine container or a clean milk carton with the top cut off. Using the scoop built into the lid of the pot, place a scoopful of stool into the pot. Check that the lid is tightly closed and deliver the specimen to the collection centre on the same day as the specimen is collected.  

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $75.

Request Group

PPR

MIP

Registration Instructions

Entamoeba histolytica PCR may be requested on a liver abscess fluid. 

Entamoeba histolytica PCR may be requested on a liver abscess fluid. This is done at St Vincents.

All faecal specimens where PCR is requested are to be given to Microbiology

External Laboratory

St Vincent's Pathology

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Frequency

Daily

Twice weekly

Assay name

Dirofilarial immitis Serology (Sendaway Test)

Filarial serology (Sendaway Test)

Alternative names

Filarial Serology, Filariasis Serology, Filaria serology, Filaria antibodies

Filariasis Serology, Filaria serology, Filaria antibodies

Request Group

QEM

PWT

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

Room Temperature

Registration Instructions

Approval required from the Microbiology Pathologist prior to dispatch.

Alternative names

HLH familial panel

Request Group

HCS

HCC

Registration Instructions

Use "Hepatitis C Supplemental Tests"  when screening test S/CO > 5.

Use "Hepatitis C Sup. Test (NRL)" when screening test S/CO   < 5.

Orderable by lab only

Processing Instructions

Unopened Tube

Unopened Tube
Centrifuge

Request Group

SE

HI

Registration Instructions

Send add on request through to Anatomical Pathology at the Alfred via fax (9076 2899) or email anatomicalpathology@alfred.org.au

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Notes

Routine TAT is 2 weeks

Optional Container Type

Dry Swab

Dry Swab
EDTA 4 mL

Collection & Request Instructions

Tissue specimens not accepted for testing and need to order HSP (VIDRL)

For quantitative CMV PCR order CMV Viral Load.

A separate EDTA blood tube is essential. It cannot be used for other tests.

Use a Gene expert (xpert) swab (red top swab). 

Guidelines for swab collection.

A sterile flocked swab is used to vigorously swab the base of the lesion— applying enough pressure to collect epithelial cells without causing bleeding—and collect vesicular fluid. It is important to collect infected epithelial cells from the base of the lesion because they usually contain a significant amount of virus. 
Break off swab into red top swab container.

For investigation of CMV colitis, a colonic biopsy is recommended. For all other enquires, please contact the Microbiology Registrar.

Tissue specimens not accepted for testing and need to order HSP (VIDRL)

For quantitative CMV PCR order CMV Viral Load.

A separate EDTA blood tube is essential. It cannot be used for other tests. 4 ml EDTA is acceptable if full.

Use a Gene expert (xpert) swab (red top swab). 

Guidelines for swab collection.

A sterile flocked swab is used to vigorously swab the base of the lesion— applying enough pressure to collect epithelial cells without causing bleeding—and collect vesicular fluid. It is important to collect infected epithelial cells from the base of the lesion because they usually contain a significant amount of virus. 
Break off swab into red top swab container.

For investigation of CMV colitis, a colonic biopsy is recommended. For all other enquires, please contact the Microbiology Registrar.

Registration Instructions

CSR: Approval from a pathologist during business hours is required.

CSR: Approval from a chemical pathologist during business hours is required.

Assay name

Hirschsprung's disease

Hirschsprung

Request Group

RCH

HDI

Registration Instructions

Prior to specimen collection contact NPV Anatomical Pathology on 03 8405 9333 and inform them that a specimen is being transported to them for AChE.

NPV Anatomical Pathology staff follow the attached instructions.

Prior to specimen collection contact NPV Anatomical Pathology on 03 8405 9333 and inform them that a specimen is being transported to them for AChE.

NPV Anatomical Pathology staff follow the attached instructions.

Assay name

Hirschsprung

Hirschsprung's disease

Volume (Adults)

Minimum/Paediatric Volume

Collection & Request Instructions

Frozen Sections

Frozen sections can only be performed on fresh unfixed tissue

The Anatomical Pathology Unit should be given 24 hours notice of a frozen section to ensure a Consultant Pathologist will be available when the frozen section arrives (telephone 9076 3150).

A frozen section must not be sent to the laboratory unannounced

Infectious Specimens: If there is a danger of infection (eg tuberculosis, hepatitis, CJD etc) please contact a pathologist before the procedure to discuss alternate methods for  rapid diagnosis.

For a frozen section the fresh tissue is sent to the Anatomical Pathology Unit in a labelled container with an accompanying request form. The request form should note the clinical and operative findings.

Frozen Sections

Frozen sections can only be performed on fresh unfixed tissue

The Anatomical Pathology Unit should be given 24 hours notice of a frozen section to ensure a Consultant Pathologist will be available when the frozen section arrives (telephone 9485 9333).

A frozen section must not be sent to the laboratory unannounced

Infectious Specimens: If there is a danger of infection (eg tuberculosis, hepatitis, CJD etc) please contact a pathologist before the procedure to discuss alternate methods for  rapid diagnosis.

For a frozen section the fresh tissue is sent to the Anatomical Pathology Unit in a labelled container with an accompanying request form https://northernpath.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Frozen-Section-Booking-Form-blank-p6-003.pdf . The request form should note the clinical and operative findings.

Request Group

SE

HI

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Request Group

SE

HI

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

Frequency

Weekdays

Request Group

SE

HI

Collection & Request Instructions

Renal Biopsy 

Prior notice of biopsy is requested to allow optimal handling of the specimen. Please contact the histology laboratory (telephone 907 62476) to notify them of the date, time and location of the biopsy procedure. A Scientist will attend the procedure to provide an immediate assessment of specimen adequacy.

Renal Biopsy 

Prior notice of biopsy is requested to allow optimal handling of the specimen. Please contact the histology laboratory (telephone 9485 9333 ) to notify them of the date, time and location of the biopsy procedure. A Scientist will attend the procedure to provide an immediate assessment of specimen adequacy.

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

Request Group

SE

HI

Collection & Request Instructions

Skin Biopsy for Immunofluorescence 

Immunofluorescence can only be performed on fresh unfixed tissue 

The fresh specimen must be wrapped in a piece of saline moistened gauze for transport to the laboratory. Wrapping prevents drying which can introduce false staining. The specimen must be delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible (within 1 hour).

If in doubt telephone the laboratory (907 62476) before removing the specimen, so that advice can be given before it is too late. 

Immunologic reactions play a major role in the pathogenesis of many skin diseases. The immunologic abnormalities found in skin and mucous membranes of patients with certain bullous (blister) disorders (pemphigus and pemphigoid), in which vesicles or bullae occur, and in the different forms of lupus erythematosus are disease specific. The distinct immunopathogenic characteristics of these diseases mean the detection of deposits of immunoglobulin and complement components in both lesional and normal skin by direct immunofluorescent techniques is of great value in establishing a diagnosis.

The extracellular antigens of most value in immunodermatology are IgA, IgG, IgM, the complement proteins (C3_C, C4 & C1_q) and fibrinogen. The immunoreactivity of these antigens is deleteriously affected by formalin fixation to varying degrees.

Skin Biopsy Specimen Collection

Whenever possible, biopsy a single fresh small blister including adjacent clinically uninvolved skin (perilesional).

>      For a large blister, biopsy edge of blister and adjacent uninvolved skin (perilesional).

>     Cut the perilesional end and send for IF studies and the remaining blister for histology.

>     For uninvolved skin, a 3-mm punch biopsy is sufficient.

Skin Biopsy for Immunofluorescence 

Immunofluorescence can only be performed on fresh unfixed tissue 

The fresh specimen must be wrapped in a piece of saline moistened gauze for transport to the laboratory. Wrapping prevents drying which can introduce false staining. The specimen must be delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible (within 1 hour).

If in doubt telephone the laboratory (9485 9402) before removing the specimen, so that advice can be given before it is too late. 

Immunologic reactions play a major role in the pathogenesis of many skin diseases. The immunologic abnormalities found in skin and mucous membranes of patients with certain bullous (blister) disorders (pemphigus and pemphigoid), in which vesicles or bullae occur, and in the different forms of lupus erythematosus are disease specific. The distinct immunopathogenic characteristics of these diseases mean the detection of deposits of immunoglobulin and complement components in both lesional and normal skin by direct immunofluorescent techniques is of great value in establishing a diagnosis.

The extracellular antigens of most value in immunodermatology are IgA, IgG, IgM, the complement proteins (C3_C, C4 & C1_q) and fibrinogen. The immunoreactivity of these antigens is deleteriously affected by formalin fixation to varying degrees.

Skin Biopsy Specimen Collection

Whenever possible, biopsy a single fresh small blister including adjacent clinically uninvolved skin (perilesional).

>      For a large blister, biopsy edge of blister and adjacent uninvolved skin (perilesional).

>     Cut the perilesional end and send for IF studies and the remaining blister for histology.

>     For uninvolved skin, a 3-mm punch biopsy is sufficient.

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

Registration Instructions

Performed on ALL patients with reactive HIV screening test regardless of history.

Performed on ALL patients with reactive HIV screening test regardless of history.  Minimum volume required for testing by VIDRL is 1ml of serum. 

Processing Instructions

Aliquot at least 0.5 mL of serum for testing.  Contact VIDRL if less than 0.5 mL serum available.

Aliquot at least 1 mL of serum for testing.  Contact VIDRL if less than 1 mL serum available.

Request Group

ARC

HLB

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

External Transport Instructions

Specimen is stable at room temperature

Collection & Request Instructions

Patient must be fasting unless otherwise instructed by the doctor.

Patient must be fasting unless otherwise instructed by the doctor.

Alternative names

CBFB::MYH11, inv16

Request Group

I16

RPA

MBS rebatable

No

Yes

Volume (Adults)

10 mL

9 mL

Collection & Request Instructions

Need 10mL of Blood and 3mL of Bone Marrow.

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old.

Specimens should be sent to the Haematology Laboratory on Mondays to Thursdays between 0900-1730 hrs. Outside these hours liase with the Haemtology Registrar  before collecting.

Need 9mL of Blood or 1-2mL of Bone Marrow (EDTA).

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old - DO NOT FREEZE. Samples must be received in RPAH lab within 48 hours of collection.

Specimens should be collected on alternate Tuesdays, to be sent to the RPAH lab on the next day Wednesday interstate courier. Liase with the Haematology Registrar before collecting.

External Laboratory

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (PMCC)

Sydney South West Path (SSWPS) - RPA

External Transport Instructions

Molecular Haematology Laboratory
Level 6, Building 77
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
Missenden Rd,
Camperdown NSW 2050

Registration Instructions

CSR: Approval from a pathologist during business hours is required.

CSR: Approval from a chemical pathologist during business hours is required.

Registration Instructions

Primary EDTA tube required to be sent to the external laboratory (Not an aliquot)

Only JAK2V617F (or exon 14) can be sent as a single gene request. If only "JAK2" is written on the request, please clarify with the Laboratory Haematology Registrar/Consultant.

JAK2e12 (exon 12) can no longer be requested as a single gene panel. Please refer to the Laboratory Haematology Registrar/Consultant.

Primary EDTA tube required to be sent to the external laboratory (Not an aliquot)

Only JAK2V617F (or exon 14) can be sent as a single gene request. If only "JAK2" is written on the request, please clarify with the Laboratory Haematology Registrar/Consultant.

JAK2e12 (exon 12) can no longer be requested as a single gene panel. Please refer to the Laboratory Haematology Registrar/Consultant.

Do not send JAK2 and MPN panel request concurrently. MPN panel contains JAK2 hence there is no need to send for JAK2 if MPN panel had been requested.

Registration Instructions

Retrospective testing 7 days

Registration Instructions

Specimens will not be accepted for testing between 20/12/2022 and 02/01/2023.

Specimens will not be accepted for testing between 20/12/2023 and 01/01/2024.

Registration Instructions

CSR to register with generic FLW panel and bring specimen to flow.

Flow scientist: If lymphoma panel is required, add LPD panel. If sendaway for leukaemia is required, then add FAS panel and re-route sample and request to Alfred Pathology. (Note: for paediatric leukaemia, add RCH panel and re-route sample and request to Royal Children's Hospital).

Blood and bone marrow specimens (dedicated EDTA tube) are to be kept at room temperature. 

All other specimens are to be refrigerated at 4^oC - CSF and tissue specimens require RPMI to be added.

CSR to register with generic FLW panel and bring specimen to flow.

Flow scientist: If lymphoma/leukaemia panel is required, add LPD panel. If sendaway for external leukaemia panel is required, then add FAS panel and re-route sample and request to Alfred Pathology. (Note: for paediatric leukaemia, add RCH panel and re-route sample and request to Royal Children's Hospital).

Blood and bone marrow specimens (dedicated EDTA tube) are to be kept at room temperature. 

All other specimens are to be refrigerated at 4^oC - CSF and tissue specimens require RPMI to be added.

Registration Instructions

CSR to register with generic FLW panel and bring specimen to flow.

Flow scientist: If lymphoma panel is required, add LPD panel. If sendaway for leukaemia and hairy cell leukaemia is required, then add FAS panel and re-route sample and request to Alfred Pathology. (Note: for T-LPD, add PMCC panel instead and re-route sample to PMCC).

Blood and bone marrow specimens (dedicated EDTA tube) are to be kept at room temperature. 

All other specimens are to be refrigerated at 4^oC - CSF and tissue specimens require RPMI to be added.

CSR to register with generic FLW panel and bring specimen to flow.

Flow scientist: If lymphoma panel is required, add LPD panel. If sendaway for leukaemia is required, then add FAS panel and re-route sample and request to Alfred Pathology. (Note: for paediatric leukaemia, add RCH panel and re-route sample and request to Royal Children's Hospital).

Blood and bone marrow specimens (dedicated EDTA tube) are to be kept at room temperature. 

All other specimens are to be refrigerated at 4^oC - CSF and tissue specimens require RPMI to be added.

Alternative names

Lupus Inhibitor Screen, LA, LAS, LE

Lupus Inhibitor Screen, LA, LAS, LE, LAC

Registration Instructions

Collect from Monday to Thursday only. Test must be requested by a Paediatrician (Consultant).  CSR staff to check with Haematology Registrar prior to sending.  Test must be performed within 24 hours of collection.

FBE to performed at NPV and results to be send to RCH with the lithium heparin specimen.

Collect from Monday to Thursday only. Test must be requested by a Paediatrician (Consultant).  CSR staff to check with Haematology Registrar prior to sending.  Test must be performed within 48 hours of collection (lithium heparin).

FBE to performed at NPV and results to be send to RCH with the lithium heparin specimen.

Registration Instructions

Collect from Monday to Thursday only. Test must be requested by a Paediatrician (Consultant).  CSR staff to check with Haematology Registrar prior to sending.

FBE to performed at NPV and results to be send to RCH with the lithium heparin specimen.

Collect from Monday to Thursday only. Test must be requested by a Paediatrician (Consultant).  CSR staff to check with Haematology Registrar prior to sending.  Test must be performed within 24 hours of collection.

FBE to performed at NPV and results to be send to RCH with the lithium heparin specimen.

Alternative names

Immunophenotyping (Child <16yrs), T cell markers (Child <16yrs), B cells (Child <16yrs), T cell regulatory (Child <16yrs)

T cell markers (Child <16yrs), B cells (Child <16yrs)

Request Group

RTC, FBE

LYP, FBE

Registration Instructions

Collect from Monday to Thursday only. Test must be requested by a Paediatrician (Consultant).  CSR staff check with Haematology Registrar prior to sending.

FBE to performed at NPV and results to be send to RCH with the lithium heparin specimen.

Collect from Monday to Thursday only. Test must be requested by a Paediatrician (Consultant).  CSR staff to check with Haematology Registrar prior to sending.

FBE to performed at NPV and results to be send to RCH with the lithium heparin specimen.

Registration Instructions

The attached request form must be completed:

http://www.petermac.org/sites/default/files/page/downloads/Molecular%20Haematology%20Request%20Slip.pdf

Haematology registrar / Haematologist approval prior to dispatch 

The attached request form must be completed:

https://www.petermac.org/document/molecular-haematology-request-slip-2/viewdocument/992

Preferred Container Type

SST

SST (protect from light – wrap in foil)

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

On weekends/public holidays, MTR samples must be sent to the Alfred via taxi.

Collection & Request Instructions

In order to examine blood for both nocturnal and diurnal species, optimum collection would be one specimen between 10 am and 2pm ( preferably 12 noon) and another between 10pm amd 2 am (preferably midnight).

Whole blood must be sent from Monday to Thursday only.  Whole blood sample must be received within 24 hours of collection.

In order to examine blood for both nocturnal and diurnal species, optimum collection would be one specimen between 10 am and 2pm ( preferably 12 noon) and another between 10pm amd 2 am (preferably midnight).

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

Optional Container Type

Viral Transport Medium Swab

Registration Instructions

Haematology registrar / Haematologist approval prior to dispatch 

Please DO NOT send for both myeloid NGS and MPN panel concurrently. If there is uncertainty about which test is required, contact Lab Haematology registrar.

Haematology registrar / Haematologist approval prior to dispatch 

DO NOT send for both myeloid NGS and MPN panel concurrently. If there is uncertainty about which test is required, contact Lab Haematology registrar.

Do not send JAK2 and MPN panel request concurrently. MPN panel contains JAK2 hence there is no need to send for JAK2 if MPN panel had been requested.

Request Group

CYT

CY

Collection & Request Instructions

Supplies Required:

A procedure kit can be obtained from Cytology (call extn 63088) which contains; Frosted end slides, Cytology Fixative (95% ethyl alcohol) in plastic vial, slide carrier/mailer, specimen bag and pencil

Important Notes:

Label 2 glass slides on the frosted end with patient  name, UR and date of birth. Please ensure slides are labeled in Pencil as ink will be dissolved by the alcoholic fixative

Ensure the discharge is smeared onto the labeled side of the slides

If no secretion appears at the nipple with gentle compression, do not manipulate further

If only a small amount of discharge is present prepare a single air dried smear

Specimen Collection:

1. Gently express a small drop of the discharge material allowing a “pea sized” drop of fluid to collect upon the nipple tip.

2. Smear the discharge onto the central portion of the first glass slide.

3. Place the second slide on top of the first one and gently separate to produce an even spread of the material across both slides. Care should be exercised not to press too hard in order to prevent crushing of the cells. The material should occupy the central portion of the slide.

4. After the two slides are separated, immediately place the second slide into a container of Cytology fixative (95% ethyl alcohol). Time is of the essence. The smearing of the material across the slide and the dropping of the slide into the liquid fixative, or spray fixing the slide, should be accomplished in one motion.

5. Allow the first slide to air dry and place into the slide carrier/mailer

6. Pack the slide mailer, fixative vial, pencil and a pathology request form back into the kit and return to Cytology.

Supplies Required:

A procedure kit can be obtained from Cytology (9485 9333) which contains; Frosted end slides, Cytology Fixative (95% ethyl alcohol) in plastic vial, slide carrier/mailer, specimen bag and pencil

Important Notes:

Label 2 glass slides on the frosted end with patient  name, UR and date of birth. Please ensure slides are labeled in Pencil as ink will be dissolved by the alcoholic fixative

Ensure the discharge is smeared onto the labeled side of the slides

If no secretion appears at the nipple with gentle compression, do not manipulate further

If only a small amount of discharge is present prepare a single air dried smear

Specimen Collection:

1. Gently express a small drop of the discharge material allowing a “pea sized” drop of fluid to collect upon the nipple tip.

2. Smear the discharge onto the central portion of the first glass slide.

3. Place the second slide on top of the first one and gently separate to produce an even spread of the material across both slides. Care should be exercised not to press too hard in order to prevent crushing of the cells. The material should occupy the central portion of the slide.

4. After the two slides are separated, immediately place the second slide into a container of Cytology fixative (95% ethyl alcohol). Time is of the essence. The smearing of the material across the slide and the dropping of the slide into the liquid fixative, or spray fixing the slide, should be accomplished in one motion.

5. Allow the first slide to air dry and place into the slide carrier/mailer

6. Pack the slide mailer, fixative vial, pencil and a pathology request form back into the kit and return to Cytology.

External Laboratory

The Alfred Pathology Service (APS)

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Registration Instructions

NT-proBNP is only MBS-rebatable for the diagnosis of heart failure in patients presenting with dyspnoea to a hospital Emergency Department.

If "BNP" is requested, register and collect for "NT-proBNP" (available in-house) (test code: BNP).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare unless the patient has presented to ED , non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $55.

NT-proBNP is only MBS-rebatable for the diagnosis of heart failure in patients presenting with dyspnoea to a hospital Emergency Department.

If "BNP" is requested, register and collect for "NT-proBNP" (available in-house) (test code: BNP).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare unless the patient has presented to ED , non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Registration Instructions

NT-proBNP is only MBS-rebatable for the diagnosis of heart failure in patients presenting with dyspnoea to a hospital Emergency Department.

If "BNP" is requested, register and collect for "NT-proBNP" (available in-house) (test code: BNP).

NT-proBNP is only MBS-rebatable for the diagnosis of heart failure in patients presenting with dyspnoea to a hospital Emergency Department.

If "BNP" is requested, register and collect for "NT-proBNP" (available in-house) (test code: BNP).

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare unless the patient has presented to ED , non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $55.

Registration Instructions

Register "Oestradiol (LC-MS) (Test Code: MON)" for females under 18 years of age, and all males. Transport at 4⁰C

Register "Oestradiol (Test Code: OES)" for females aged 18 years and over.

Register "Oestradiol (LC-MS) (Test Code: LCO)" for females under 18 years of age, and all males. Transport at 4⁰C

Register "Oestradiol (Test Code: OES)" for females aged 18 years and over.

Registration Instructions

Register "Oestradiol (LC-MS) (Test Code: MON)" for females under 18 years of age, and all males.

Register "Oestradiol (Test Code: OES)" for females aged 18 years and over.

Register "Oestradiol (LC-MS) (Test Code: LCO)" for females under 18 years of age, and all males.

Register "Oestradiol (Test Code: OES)" for females aged 18 years and over.

External Transport Instructions

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack

External Laboratory

Victorian Clinical Genetics Service

Royal Women's Hospital Laboratory Services

External Transport Instructions

External Laboratory Contact: 

Dr Jan Pyman    Telephone: 9345 2567

Address to: Dr Jan Pyman, Anatomical Pathology, Royal Woman’s Hospital, 5^th Floor, cnr Flemmington Rd & Grattan Street, Parkville, VIC 3052

External Laboratory

Royal Women's Hospital Laboratory Services

Victorian Clinical Genetics Service

Assay name

PML-RAR Transcription (Sendaway Test)

AML1-ETO Gene Fusion (Sendaway Test)

Alternative names

t(8;21), RUNX1::RUNX1T1

Collection & Request Instructions

Need 9mL of Blood or 1-2mL of Bone Marrow (EDTA).

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old - DO NOT FREEZE. Samples must be received in RPAH lab within 48 hours of collection.

Specimens should be collected on alternate Tuesdays, to be sent to the RPAH lab on the next day Wednesday interstate courier. Liase with the Haematology Registrar before collecting.

Need 9mL of Blood or 1-2mL of Bone Marrow (EDTA).

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old - DO NOT FREEZE. Samples must be received in RPAH lab within 48 hours of collection.

Specimens should be collected on alternate Tuesdays, to be sent to the RPAH lab on the next day Wednesday interstate courier. Liase with the Haematology Registrar before collecting.

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Assay name

PML-RAR Transcription (Sendaway Test)

Inversion 16 Gene Analysis (Sendaway Test)

Alternative names

CBFB::MYH11

MBS rebatable

No

Yes

Collection & Request Instructions

Need 9mL of Blood or 1-2mL of Bone Marrow (EDTA).

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old - DO NOT FREEZE. Samples must be received in RPAH lab within 48 hours of collection.

Specimens should be collected on alternate Tuesdays, to be sent to the RPAH lab on the next day Wednesday interstate courier. Liase with the Haematology Registrar before collecting.

Need 9mL of Blood or 1-2mL of Bone Marrow (EDTA).

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old - DO NOT FREEZE. Samples must be received in RPAH lab within 48 hours of collection.

Specimens should be collected on alternate Tuesdays, to be sent to the RPAH lab on the next day Wednesday interstate courier. Liase with the Haematology Registrar before collecting.

Request Group

PML

RPA

Collection & Request Instructions

Need 10mL of Blood or 3mL of Bone Marrow.

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old.

Specimens should be sent to the Haematology Laboratory on Mondays to Thursdays between 0900-1730 hrs. Outside these hours liase with the Haemtology Registrar  before collecting.

Need 9mL of Blood or 1-2mL of Bone Marrow (EDTA).

Specimens must be kept at room temperature and must be less than 24hours old - DO NOT FREEZE. Samples must be received in RPAH lab within 48 hours of collection.

Specimens should be collected on alternate Tuesdays, to be sent to the RPAH lab on the next day Wednesday interstate courier. Liase with the Haematology Registrar before collecting.

External Laboratory

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (PMCC)

Sydney South West Path (SSWPS) - RPA

External Transport Instructions

Molecular Haematology Laboratory
Level 6, Building 77
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
Missenden Rd,
Camperdown NSW 2050

Collection & Request Instructions

Pre and Post vaccination sera required. Send second serum approximately 6 weeks post vaccination.

The pre serum will be stored for a maximum of 6 months awaiting the post serum.

Instruct patients to return to the same collection centre so that specimen matching can occur.

Serum from splenectomy patients will be sent on receipt. Indicate clearly on the request slip.

PLEASE NOTE :  Samples for this test cannot be dispatched to the referral laboratory until Pathologist approval has been obtained.

Pre and Post vaccination sera required. Send second serum approximately 6 weeks post vaccination.

The pre serum will be stored for a maximum of 6 months awaiting the post serum.

Instruct patients to return to the same collection centre so that specimen matching can occur.

Serum from splenectomy patients will be sent on receipt. Indicate clearly on the request slip.

Registration Instructions

Retrospective testing 7 days

Collection & Request Instructions

Tissue samples should be sent in viral transport medium.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $142.

Tissue samples should be sent in viral transport medium.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    

Collection & Request Instructions

Tissue samples should be sent in viral transport medium.

Tissue samples should be sent in viral transport medium.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $142.

External Laboratory

Monash Pathology

PathWest - Fiona Stanley Hospital

Collection & Request Instructions

The blood collection tubes supplied are for use only with the QuantiFERON^®-TB system (QFT^®). The following instructions relate solely to the use of QFT^® blood collection tubes.

Antigens have been dried onto the inner wall of the blood collection tubes so it is essential that the contents of the tubes be thoroughly mixed with the blood. The tubes must be transferred to a 37^oC incubator as soon as possible and within 16 hours of collection.

 Note: Samples must reach the laboratory by 1600 Monday to Friday for processing.

DO NOT SEND on weekends or public holidays.

The following procedures should be followed for optimal results:

Blood Collection:

For each subject collect 1mL of blood by venipuncture directly into each of the QFT^® blood collection tubes.

Order of draw:

1. Grey (nil) tube

2. Green (TB1 antigen) tube

3. Yellow (TB2 antigen) tube

4. Purple (mitogen) tube·

 As 1mL tubes draw blood relatively slowly, keep the tube on the needle for 2-3 seconds once the tube appears to have completed filling, to ensure that the correct volume is drawn.

The black mark on the side of the tubes indicates the 1mL fill volume. QFT^® blood collection tubes have been validated for volumes ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 mL. If the level of blood in any tube is not close to the indicator line, it is recommended to obtain another blood sample.

If a “butterfly needle” is used, prime tubing with a “purge” tube before filling the QFT^® tubes.

Mix by vigorously shaking the tubes up and down 10 times to ensure that the entire inner surface of the tube has been coated with the blood.

Thorough mixing is required to ensure complete integration of the tube’s contents into the blood.

Label tubes appropriately.

The blood collection tubes supplied are for use only with the QuantiFERON^®-TB system (QFT^®). The following instructions relate solely to the use of QFT^® blood collection tubes.

Antigens have been dried onto the inner wall of the blood collection tubes so it is essential that the contents of the tubes be thoroughly mixed with the blood. The tubes must be transferred to a 37^oC incubator as soon as possible and within 16 hours of collection.

The following procedures should be followed for optimal results:

Blood Collection:

For each subject collect 1mL of blood by venipuncture directly into each of the QFT^® blood collection tubes.

Order of draw:

1. Grey (nil) tube

2. Green (TB1 antigen) tube

3. Yellow (TB2 antigen) tube

4. Purple (mitogen) tube·

 As 1mL tubes draw blood relatively slowly, keep the tube on the needle for 2-3 seconds once the tube appears to have completed filling, to ensure that the correct volume is drawn.

The black mark on the side of the tubes indicates the 1mL fill volume. QFT^® blood collection tubes have been validated for volumes ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 mL. If the level of blood in any tube is not close to the indicator line, it is recommended to obtain another blood sample.

If a “butterfly needle” is used, prime tubing with a “purge” tube before filling the QFT^® tubes.

Mix by vigorously shaking the tubes up and down 10 times to ensure that the entire inner surface of the tube has been coated with the blood.

Thorough mixing is required to ensure complete integration of the tube’s contents into the blood.

Label tubes appropriately.

Transport Instructions between sites and/or laboratories

___

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $66.

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.  

Registration Instructions

This test is not MBS rebatable. Cost $40.40

Patient Consent Form:

/downloads/haem/CHWPatient-Consent-for-Non-Rebateable-Test-Form.pdf

Collection & Request Instructions

Note, as this test is not covered by Medicare, non-Northern Health patients will be responsible for the cost incurred, and patient consent must be obtained.    As at July 2023, this fee is $66.

Minimum/Paediatric Volume

1 mL

0.3 mL

Minimum/Paediatric Volume

0.2 mL

Alternative names

Thalassaemia screen, Hb electrophoresis, Hb F, Hb H, HbA2, Foetal Haemoglobin, Antenatal Thalassaemia screen, Thalassaemia DNA testing

Thalassaemia screen, Hb electrophoresis, Hb F, Hb H, HbA2, Foetal Haemoglobin, Antenatal Thalassaemia screen, Thalassaemia DNA testing, HbEPG

Request Group

MON

PLT

Request Group

DBI (for age under 2 years); CBI (for age 2 years and above)

DBI (for age under 2 years); CBI (for age 2 years and above). In addition, a Total Bilirubin (TBI) will be performed as part of the test set

External Transport Instructions

Only if single gene tp53 is requested. If full pan haem panel is required, this would need to be discussed with the Haematologist/Lab Reg

Registration Instructions

Haematology registrar / Haematologist approval prior to dispatch

Refer to https://www.austinpathology.org.au/test-directory/1781 for molecular pathology request.

External Laboratory

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (PMCC)

Austin Pathology

Volume (Adults)

4 mL

10 mL

Request Group

VCS

TRS

Collection & Request Instructions

High vaginal swab and urine only validated specimen sites.

Registration Instructions

Chain of custody and workplace urine drug screens not available through NPV.

Chain of custody and workplace urine drug screens not available through NPV. Original urine container to be sent to the external laboratory not an aliquot.

Assay name

Urine myoglobulin

Urine myoglobin

Processing Instructions

Aliquot

Aliquot
Centrifuge

Preferred Container Type

Sodium Citrate

Sodium Citrate x 4

Collection & Request Instructions

4 CITRATE REQUIRED. Usually ordered as part of von Willebrand factor (vWF) studies, which include von Willebrand factor antigen (vWF Ag), FVIII and Ristocetin (RicoF).

If no other tests in vWF studies are ordered, contact request doctor to confirm that no other tests are required.

4 CITRATE REQUIRED. Usually ordered as part of von Willebrand factor (vWF) studies, which include von Willebrand factor antigen (vWF Ag), FVIII and Ristocetin (RicoF).

If no other tests in vWF studies are ordered, contact request doctor to confirm that no other tests are required.

Registration Instructions

Test is not Medicare rebatable ($432 as of 01/10/2019)

Collection to be performed from Monday to Wednesday only.  Test is not Medicare rebatable ($432 as of 01/10/2019)

Collection & Request Instructions

Minimum volume of 6mL required

Collection to be performed from Monday to Wednesday only.  Minimum volume of 6mL required

Registration Instructions

Approval required from the Microbiology Pathologist prior to dispatch

External Transport Instructions

Send at ambient temperature

Send at 4'C with Ice Pack