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ACTH (Endogenous): Canine & Equine

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Collect a minimum of 1mL blood into a plastic EDTA tube, ensuring that the tube is filled to the line. Gently mix by inversion.
Centrifuge the sample immediately.
Transfer the plasma into a plain plastic tube (no additive) and freeze immediately.
Samples must be sent frozen and should still be frozen upon arrival at the laboratory. Specifically request a frozen sample collection by courier).
Note the collection date and time on the submission form.
Tick ACTH – frozen plasma box (code VCT) on submission form.

Comments

ACTH is a very labile protein. Suboptimal specimen collection and handling may result in a falsely low measured ACTH concentration.
If a centrifuge is not available, EDTA whole blood should be chilled immediately and sent to arrive at the lab as soon as possible (preferably within a couple of hours).
Markedly lipaemic and/or haemolysed samples may yield false results and samples should be redrawn prior to submission.

States

QLD

ACTH Stimulation Test: Canine

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Standard ACTH (aqueous solution) Stimulation Protocol

Take a 0h blood into a serum tube.
Inject 5μg/kg Synacthen® IV.
Take another blood sample 1h later into a serum tube.
Label sample times clearly on the tubes.
Tick ACTH stim (2 x Cort) box (code VAS) on the submission form.
If only submitting the 1hr post-stimulation sample, tick the cortisol box (code COV) but indicate in clinical notes that an ACTH stimulation test was performed and that this is a post-stimulation sample.
Vetnostics’ post-stimulation reference range and thus interpretation is based on this protocol.

Depot ACTH (Synacthen® Depot) Stimulation Protocol

Collect a basal (0 hour) blood sample into a serum tube.
Inject 250ug of Synacthen® Depot IM.
Collect a further blood sample into a serum tube exactly 1 hr later.
Label sample times clearly on the tubes.
Clearly indicate on the submission form that Depot Synacthen formulation was utilised as well as indicating dosage and blood sampling times.
Tick ACTH stim box (code VAS) as normal on the submission form.
If only submitting the 1hr post-stimulation sample, tick the cortisol box (code COV) but indicate in clinical notes that an ACTH stimulation test was performed and that this is a post-stimulation sample.

Following medical therapy for hyperadrenocorticism an ACTH stimulation test should be performed:

Trilostane

Perform the test 4-6 hours after administration of trilostane.
Do not fast. Give a normal amount of food with the trilostane to ensure appropriate absorption of the drug.

Mitotane

Perform the test 36-48hrs post administration of mitotane.

Comments

Specific testing for hyperadrenocorticism should not be performed in unwell or significantly stressed animals, which may yield false positive results in adrenal function tests. In potentially hyperadrenocorticoid dogs with significant intercurrent disease such as diabetic ketoacidosis or pancreatitis, adrenal function testing should be delayed until intercurrent disease is controlled.
Specific testing for hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) may be done in unwell/stressed animals.
Any form of corticosteroid therapy may interfere with adrenal function tests, by (a) cross-reacting in the cortisol assay (except for dexamethasone), or (b) affecting the pituitary/adrenal axis via suppression of ACTH production. As a guide, the minimum periods for which corticosteroid therapy should be withheld before an ACTH stimulation test are:
-Injectable (short acting) 7 days (48 h if dexamethasone, except in a potential Addisonian dog, see below).
-Oral 2 weeks.
-Topical 2 weeks.
-Injectable (depot) 2 months.
If glucocorticoid therapy is required for immediate management of a potential Addisonian dog, a single dexamethasone dose should be used as this will not interfere with the ACTH stimulation test.

States

QLD

Ammonia

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Fast the animal overnight for a minimum of 12hrs.
Collect a minimum of 1mL blood into EDTA tube.
Invert and mix gently, then blood must be centrifuged and separated immediately.
Transfer plasma to a plain tube (no additive) and freeze immediately.
Samples must be sent frozen and remain frozen until arrival at the laboratory. Specifically request a frozen sample collection by courier.
Indicate Ammonia (code VAO) in the other tests section of the submission form.

Comments

States

QLD

Ammonia x 2 (Ammonia Tolerance Test)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Fast the animal overnight for a minimum of 12hrs.
Collect a minimum of 1mL blood in EDTA tube.
Invert and mix gently, then blood must be centrifuged and separated immediately.
Transfer plasma to a plain tube (no additive) and freeze immediately.
Label as Time =0, “Pre” or “Baseline” sample.
Administer either:
- Per Rectum: Administer 100mg/Kg of a 50mg/mL ammonium chloride (NH₄Cl) solution 5-10cm past anal sphincter ensuring fluid is maintained within the rectum for at least 5 minutes.
- Oral: Administer 0.1g/Kg ammonium chloride orally to a maximum total dose of 3g in 20ml water.
Take second sample 30 minutes post administration of ammonium chloride and process second sample in a similar fashion to that of the baseline sample as outlined above.
Label this second sample the “Post” sample.
Samples must be sent frozen and remain frozen until arrival at the laboratory. Specifically request a frozen sample collection by courier.
Indicate Ammonia x 2 (code VPT) in the other tests section of the submission form.

Comments

States

QLD

Anti-Mullerian Hormone

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

For distinguishing between spayed and intact female dogs, cats, rabbits and horses. This test may also detect females with ovarian remnant syndrome in an animal that was previously spayed.
For distinguishing between castrated and intact male dogs, cats, rabbits and horses. This test may also detect cryptorchid males.
For detection of granulosa cell tumour in mares.

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

A fasted sample is recommended to avoid lipaemia.
Collect a minimum of 3 mL of blood into a plain (red top) tube.
Allow the sample to clot for 30 minutes at room temperature, and then refrigerate until courier collection.
Tick VMU in the endocrinology section of the request form.

Comments

AMH is a hormone involved in gender differentiation in the developing embryo. In sexually mature dogs, cats, rabbits and horses it is produced by the granulosa cells of ovarian follicles and in the Sertoli cells of the testicles.
Single measurement of AMH is therefore highly effective in differentiating between sexually intact and neutered animals of both sexes.
AMH levels decline markedly following neutering. Testing should be delayed for at least 30 days after spaying/neutering to allow for residual AMH concentrations to decline.
The test is only suitable for animals over 6 months and repeat testing may be needed for animals between 6-12 months.
For cats being investigated for ovarian remnant syndrome, blood sampling at time of calling is recommended to avoid a false negative result.
If clinical signs are consistent with presence of an ovarian remnant or residual/retained testicular tissue but AMH concentrations do not support this, progesterone testing (females) or testosterone testing (males) should be considered. GnRH/hCG stimulation testing may be required in some cases.
AMH concentration will tend to increase with sample storage.

States

QLD

BRAF

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

85% of canine transitional cell (urothelial) carcinomas (TCC/UC) carry a mutation in the BRAF gene
This mutation may be detected in a urine sample containing as few as 10 mutant-bearing cells
15% of canine TCC/UC lack BRAF mutation. More than two thirds of these have other genomic signatures detectable by a second level test (BRAF-PLUS). See also Notes below.
The overall sensitivity to detect canine TCC/UC is therefore > 95%.
Specificity of both BRAF and BRAF-PLUS tests is ~ 100%.
- The BRAF mutation has not been detected in non-neoplastic bladder lesions, including benign polyps and cystitis
- The test is not impacted by the presence of blood, protein, glucose or bacteria in urine, or by drug therapy (including antibiotics and NSAIDS).

Indications

Any dog with:
- Unexplained bladder wall change on ultrasound examination (especially broad-based mass-like lesion)
Dogs over 6 years old with:
- Undiagnosed cause of lower urinary tract disease (e.g. haematuria, dysuria, stranguria, pollakiuria, incontinence)
- Non-resolved urinary tract infection after appropriate antibiotic treatment
- As a screening test in high-risk breeds.
During chemotherapy for TCC/UC to monitor treatment success via decreased levels of BRAF mutation, or to monitor for relapse by detection of BRAF mutation-bearing cells.

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Urine must be collected into a special preservative solution
To obtain a test kit email [email protected]
The test kit consists of:
- Urine sample jar containing preservative
- Antech instruction sheet for owner (or veterinarian) regarding collection
- Antech checklist form for veterinarian to complete
- Vetnostics coloured sheet “Vetnostics BRAF Instructions for Veterinarian” (Form/VT/06/002), stapled to Antech checklist form. These instructions will include what information to write on the Antech checklist form and what to submit to Vetnostics.
The required sample is 40 mL free-catch (voided) urine
- A smaller volume of urine (10-25 mL) may be submitted though the sensitivity may be decreased (this is less likely to be a problem if a bladder mass can be visualised)
- A smaller volume may also limit option of the second level BRAF-PLUS test, if required (see above and below)
- Urine collected by cystocentesis or catheterisation is NOT recommended since the sensitivity may be decreased.
Urine should first be collected into a clean, dry container and transferred into the preservative within 15 minutes of collection
Once in the preservative, urine is stable for several days at room temperature when kept out of direct sunlight
Short periods of refrigeration should not affect the specimen but refrigeration is not necessary
Urine collection may take place over 2-3 days as long as each aliquot is promptly placed into the preservative solution and stored out of direct sunlight.

Comments

Vetnostics prepares cytocentrifuge smears from the urine. These smears are sent to USA for testing.
If the submitted sample does not have detectable BRAF mutation, the BRAF-PLUS test for other relevant genomic signatures (see above) will automatically be performed at no additional charge. However, because more DNA is required to perform the BRAF-PLUS assay, a small number of samples that are BRAF-undetected will not be eligible for the BRAF-PLUS assay, and a new urine sample must be submitted (which will incur a second charge).
When a mass is detected, histologic confirmation of TCC/UC is recommended which may also indicate whether the mass has invaded the muscle wall. Further imaging and evaluation of local lymph nodes should be performed to stage the disease.

Reference

‍https://www.antechdiagnostics.com/laboratory-diagnostics/molecular-diagnostics/cadet-braf-plus

States

QLD

Bacterial Culture - Skin

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Poor response to antimicrobial therapy, for example:

- less than 50% reduction in lesion extent after 2 weeks of treatment- emergence of new lesions during treatment
- presence of residual lesions after 6 weeks of treatment

If increased risk of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus pseudomonas (MRSP) due to previously confirmed MRSP infection in that patient or another household pet
Intracellular rod bacteria consistently present on cytology (primarily with deep pyoderma).

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Resident bacterial flora can be readily cultured from surface swabs of normal canine skin
Bacterial culture results should always be interpreted in light of concurrent lesions and cytology findings. Positive culture without consistent lesions and cytology does not confirm infection.
Reliance on culture results alone may be misleading due to inadvertent contamination of samples with incidental surface bacterial flora, even despite careful aseptic technique.
Antimicrobial susceptibility test results should be considered a guide to treatment rather than definitive. Clinical response to treatment does not always concur with in-vitro susceptibility data.
For poorly responsive nodular lesions initially presumed to be deep bacterial pyoderma, histopathology is important to exclude other differentials including other infections (fungal, mycobacterial, demodicosis), sterile inflammation (e.g. sterile pyogranuloma syndrome) and neoplasia.

Collection protocol

The optimal collection technique varies with the type of skin lesion:

Intact pustules - sterile dry culture swab, after puncturing with a sterile needle
Other superficial lesions (e.g. scale, crusts, erosions beneath crusts, lichenification) - dry culture swab rubbed vigorously over lesion for 5 seconds
Intact deeper lesions (plaques, papules, nodules) – first sterilise the skin surface (gentle alcohol wipe) and then sample via one or more of the following:

- skin biopsy with sterile technique, surface epidermis removed (most reliable)
- swab sampling after puncture with sterile needle and gentle squeezing (suitable for small lesions, e.g. papules)
- fine needle aspiration - most suitable for nodules with intact pockets of exudate.Immediately after collection:

Swabs should be placed in bacterial transport medium
Tissue biopsies should be placed onto a sterile saline-moistened swab in a sterile screw top jar
Samples should ideally be processed within 24 hours. Refrigeration is important to limit growth of contaminants (e.g. Bacillus, Proteus) if transportation to the laboratory is delayed.

Comments

States

QLD

Bile Acids (Pre and Post Prandial) Stimulation Test

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

The animal should be fasted for 12 hours.
Collect a fasting blood sample. Clearly label the tube with the patient’s details and ‘0 hr’ or “Pre” sample.
Feed the dog or cat a small meal to stimulate gall bladder contraction. It is recommended that pets <5kg of body weight eat at least two teaspoons of food, those that weigh more eat at least two tablespoons. It is important to watch closely to ensure that all of the food is eaten. Avoid overfeeding as this may result in sample lipaemia which can interfere with the bile acid assay.
Collect the post-prandial blood sample 2 hours after feeding. Clearly label the tube as ‘2 hr’ or ‘Post’ sample.
Tick the Bile Acids (Pre + Post) box (code BPV) on the submission form.

Comments

Some Maltese terriers and Maltese X dogs have increased bile acid concentrations in the absence of liver disease, therefore it may be impossible to determine the significance of increased bile acid concentrations in this breed. Additional non-invasive diagnostic options include ammonia tolerance test and abdominal imaging.

States

QLD

Blood Culture

Suitable collection

1 - 4 mL of non-anticoagulated blood in a blood culture bottle.
Do not refrigerate the sample.

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Unsuitable collection

Blood collected into any other container

‍

Minimum sample size

1ml

Turnaround time

Cultures are examined at 24 hrs, 48 hrs and 7 days.

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General

Preferred blood culture bottle is BacT/ALERT PF Paediatric. These can be ordered using our Vet Supply Requisition Form. These bottles are suitable for aerobic and facultative anaerobic microorganisms (bacteria and yeast). Obligate anaerobes may require a dedicated BacT/ALERT Anaerobic blood culture bottle (which can also be ordered using our Vet Supply Requisition Form). Compared to traditional manual methods using glass bottles, the BacT/ALERT bottles have added benefits including:

Continuous monitoring using an automated system
Positive results can be detected and reported faster
False negative results are minimised
Bottles are shatter-resistant, maximising safety.

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Check the expiry date shown on the blood culture bottle label.
Before use, examine the broth for turbidity (which may indicate contamination). Discard if there is any evidence of turbidity.
repare the site of collection as for a surgical site (70% ethanol should be allowed to act for at least 30 seconds).
Prepare the blood culture bottle: Remove the plastic flip-off cap and disinfect the exposed part of the rubber stopper (70% ethanol should be allowed to act for at least 30 seconds).
Collect blood by venepuncture using a strict aseptic technique and sterile equipment.
Immediately transfer blood (or body fluid) into the blood culture bottle.
- Volume to infuse in paediatric bottle: 0.5 – 4mL blood/fluid
- Volume to infuse into anaerobic bottle: 8 – 10mL blood/fluid
- Thoroughly mix the sample with the medium in the bottle.
- Keep the inoculated blood culture bottle at room temperature. Do NOT refrigerate.
- Tick the appropriate test box on the submission form:
  - For blood tick BCV Blood Culture box.
  - For all other body fluids (e.g. synovial fluid) tick VSP Body Fluid culture box

Comments

For optimal chances of a positive culture, collect samples from two different sites at the peak of the pyrexia (samples will be charged as one).
Another sample within 24 hours can also be submitted (will be charged as a separate culture) to increase the chance of a positive culture.
Do not refrigerate.
Positives are reported as soon as they flag positive. Negative results are reported at day 5 of culture.
Ideally the sample should be collected prior to antibiotic therapy, as the likelihood of a positive blood culture result is significantly reduced in patients receiving antibiotics.
Culture of 2 – 4 blood samples taken during a 24 – 48 hour period may be necessary to obtain a positive result. If the animal is intermittently febrile, specimens should be collected when the body temperature spikes.
Multiple sample submissions will be charged separately.

States

QLD

Bromide

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Collect blood sample into a plain/red top serum tube within one hour of the next scheduled dose or at least 8 hours after the last dose (trough concentration).
Tick the Bromide box (code VBM) on the submission form.

Comments

Do not use Gel/serum separator tubes as the gel may absorb some of the drug, artificially lowering the serum concentration.
Steady-state serum bromide concentrations are achieved after approximately 3 months of therapy.

States

QLD

Brucellosis

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Brucellosis is a bacterial disease of animals that is also a zoonotic disease capable of causing severe illness in people. In host species it often causes reproductive failure, including abortion, stillbirth or the birth of weak offspring in females and reproductive tract inflammation (including orchitis) in males. The disease may become systemic causing lymph node enlargement, fever, abscessation, discospondylitis and osteomyelitis.
Brucella suis primarily infects pigs. Dogs, cattle and horses may also become infected. It is well established in the feral pig population across northern Australia and into NSW. The domestic pig herd in Australia is currently free of Brucella suis. Concern for brucellosis in dogs in Australia is primarily in relation to Brucella suis.
Brucella canis (dogs) does not occur in Australia and is therefore regarded as an exotic disease. It is only a clinical consideration in imported dogs. Serological testing may also be required for export certification.
Brucella abortus, which primarily causes disease in cattle has been eradicated from Australia and is now regarded as an exotic disease. Serological testing may be required for export certification.
Brucella melitensis (goats and sheep) does not occur in Australia and is therefore regarded as an exotic disease. Serological testing may be required for export certification.
Brucellosis is a notifiable disease in animals (See References).

Brucella suis in dogs:

Dogs may become infected from pig hunting or eating raw pig meat or offal. Dogs that wander and scavenge on dead pigs could also be infected. Young dogs with no pig hunting history are also suspected to have been infected around the time of birth. In addition, it is likely that sexual contact can result in transmission between dogs at mating, because Brucella suis has been cultured from semen and venereal transfer and contact with aborted material are considered the main mechanism for transmission of other Brucella sp.
Dogs infected with Brucella suis may show no obvious sign of infection (subclinical infection has been reported in approximately 40% of cases). When clinical signs occur these may include fever, enlarged testicles, back pain, discospondylitis, lameness, prostatic enlargement or abscessation, haematuria, abortion, enlarged lymph nodes or vomiting.
Infected dogs are a significant potential source of infection for people. PPE should be worn by people interacting with dogs scheduled for testing (or re-testing; see below). Euthanasia of confirmed infected dogs is recommended, but is not mandatory. Treatment options for dogs include de-sexing and long-term antibiotic therapy (combination of rifampicin and doxycycline) (James et al 2017).

Serology to screen for Brucella suis infection:
Dogs with suspected clinical signs and considered at risk should be tested for antibodies to B suis.

There is no specific test for B suis
Available tests are the Rose Bengal agglutination test (RB) and complement fixation test (CF), using B abortus antigen to detect cross-reacting antibodies to B suis
A diagnosis of brucellosis (B suis) infection in a dog should not rely solely on these tests and the clinical picture and history must also be considered
Both RB and CF tests should be performed.
If RB alone is used as a screening test:
- Positive or inconclusive RB results should be checked with the CF test- Negative RB results should be checked with the CF test if there is a high index of suspicion of infection based on history and clinical signs. A negative result on both the RB and CF tests means the dog does not have antibodies to at the time of testing. However, infection is not ruled out if the infection was recent (and there has not been time for seroconversion).

Dogs should be re-tested in a further 6 weeks if:

RB and CF tests are both inconclusive
RB and CF tests are both negative but there is high index of suspicion of brucellosis based on history or clinical signs.

Bacterial culture to confirm Brucella suis infection:
Brucella suis infection can be confirmed by bacterial culture from fresh tissue or fluid (or swabs, though tissue is preferred):

Specimens should NOT be sent to QML Pathology Vetnostics but rather should be sent directly to a government laboratory (e.g. Biosecurity Sciences laboratory) https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/land-management/health-pests-weeds-diseases/biosecurity-sciences-lab/submitting
Dogs with suspected clinical signs and considered at risk should be tested for antibodies to B suis (see above) before culture is attempted
Suitable sites for culture include testicle, tissues from aborted pups, placenta, joint fluid, bone, lymph node and blood
Additional guidelines regarding collection of tissue including from castration/spay of suspected cases and collection and submission of material for culture may be found in NSW Department of Primary Industries factsheet (2017) (see References).

Brucella suis in pigs:
The signs of infection with Brucella suis in pigs are variable as the bacteria may spread beyond the reproductive tract and localise in other parts of the body. The most significant clinical signs are:

Sows: infertility and reproductive failure (including abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death
Boars: orchitis
Lameness, incoordination and posterior paresis.

Antibody testing for Brucella may be conducted but is not specific for Brucella suis (see Brucella suis in dogs).Brucella suis in cattle and horses:
Cattle and horses may be infected with Brucella suis if they share an environment with feral pigs (e.g. open waters frequented by feral pigs). There are no specific clinical signs but cattle and horses may be antibody-positive for Brucella due to infection with Brucella suis. A positive antibody test result in cattle, usually detected during a herd infertility investigation, must be investigated further to ensure that it has not been caused by Brucella abortus.

‍Brucella suis in humans:
Humans can become infected via inhalation, ingestion or through broken skin or conjunctiva. Brucella suis mainly affects abattoir workers, pig farmers and feral pig shooters. Conditions of slaughter and field preparation of feral pigs influences the risk of human infection and strict hygiene is essential. Human infection can also occur from contaminated feral pig meat during food preparation, cooking, serving and eating.Owners of dogs diagnosed with brucellosis should seek advice from a human infectious disease clinician if they have concerns about their own health. References:
NSW Department of Primary Industries (2017) Brucellosis (Brucella suis) in dogs - guidelines for veterinarians. Primefact 1421. Second edition. http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/577376/Brucellosis-in-dogs-guidelines-for-veterinarians.pdfNational list of notifiable animal diseases (205) http://www.agriculture.gov.au/pests-diseases-weeds/animal/notifiable

James DR et al (2017) Clinical management of Brucella suis infection in dogs and implications for public health. Aust Vet J 95(1):19-25

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Calcium (Ionised)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

SST (serum separation tubes which contain gel) vacutainer tubes should be used.
Whole blood sample (of at least 2.5 mls) should be placed (without uncapping lid) in the vacutainer tube and once clotted, the sample should be centrifuged within 10-15 minutes of collection to prevent calcium leaking into serum from the erythrocytes.
Make sure that the SST sample tube is not uncapped at any stage.
If samples are to be delayed in transit (> 6 hours), then wrap the SST sample (after having centrifuged the sample) in “glad-wrap” and place in a specimen collection bag on ice bricks. This will allow satisfactory testing of sample for up to 24 hours. Testing may be performed on samples up to 48 hours old but a reduction of ionised calcium levels of up to 10% may be experienced in samples which are assayed 1- 2 days after collection.
Tick the Ionised Calcium box (code CHV) on the submission form.

Comments

This is the only test to be performed on this sample. If other tests are required then please submit additional tubes/samples.

States

QLD

Catecholamines (Urine)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

The owner is to collect a urine sample (Minimum 10mL) at home (stress-free conditions) and then freeze immediately.
The sample must then remain frozen the entire time prior to submission and samples must then be sent frozen to the laboratory.
Specifically request a frozen sample collection by courier.
Request Urinary Catecholamine (Panel code VAI) in the “Other Tests” section of the request form.

Comments

Results are reported without interpretive guidelines or reference intervals. There is the option to submit the patient sample with a healthy animal control sample (which incurs a second test cost).

States

QLD

Catecholamines (plasma)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

12 hour fast is recommended to avoid lipaemia/haemolysis
Collect minimum 3 mL EDTA blood
Centrifuge immediately and separate the plasma into a plain tube (e.g. 5 mL sterile plain tube, Stores code 683079). Note: a tube containing clot activator or gel is not suitable.
Label this as EDTA plasma
Refrigerate immediately and transport chilled.
Request Catecholamines, plasma (panel code VTO) in the “Other Tests” section of the request form.

Comments

Grossly haemolysed plasma is not suitable for testing.

States

QLD

Coagulation Profile (Includes Clotting times and FBC)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

“Clean” (i.e. minimally traumatic) venepuncture is essential and If there are problems with the venepuncture, then another needle and syringe must be used.
EDTA and Sodium Citrate tubes are BOTH required and these must be filled to the correct line on each tube. Min. Volume 2.7 mL blood in each tube.
Tick the Coagulation Profile box (Panel Code =VCOAG) on the submission form

Comments

States

QLD

Copper (liver)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Minimum 100 mg fresh chilled liver tissue is recommended. This equates to approximately:

- three 14 G Trucut biopsies (each 2 cm long) - 5 x 5 x 5 mm - Analysis can be attempted using smaller samples but is not as accurate. - If < 50 mg liver tissue, this will incur a surcharge (approximately 1.5X the price of routine assay)

Small tissue samples for chemical analysis should be stored and transported in a suitable size container with a small air space to minimise evaporative loss and dessication of the sample.

- ‘O’ ring sealed 1-1.5 mL tubes are ideal (e.g. small pediatric red top non-EDTA Sarstedt blood tube). - Biopsy samples should not be submitted in large (e.g. 50 mL) containers.

After collection of the biopsy, rinse gently with a small amount of saline and then carefully remove all excess fluid and blood by blotting dry with a gauze swab.
Place in sample container. Do not include any gauze swab or other material with the specimen.
For post mortem samples, 5-10 g in a 50 mL screw-top container is preferred.

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Comments

Copper concentration and inflammation may vary significantly between liver lobes.
Sampling of more than one liver lobe, by laparascopic or wedge biopsy rather than needle biopsy, may provide a more accurate assessment.
Biopsy from the least affected region may best represent hepatic copper concentration.
Because the entire contents of the sample container will be assayed it is not possible to differentiate tissue from blood or fluid condensate. Therefore it is vital that clots and excess blood/fluid are removed before sample submission.
For further information see ACVIM consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic hepatitis in dogs (Webster et al, Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 2019;33:1173-1200).

States

QLD

Cross Match

Suitable collection

EDTA & PC from both the donor and recipient
EDTA with plasma can also be used

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Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2 mL whole blood in PC tube from each of donor and recipient
PLUS
2 mL whole blood in an EDTA tube from each of donor and recipient

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Take care to avoid or minimise any haemolysis during sample collection, as this can invalidate results.
Recipient: Collect 2 mL of blood into an EDTA tube and 2 mL of blood into a plain serum tube.
For each donor/s: Collect 2 mL of blood into an EDTA tube and 2 mL of blood into a plain serum tube.
Refrigerate samples until transport to the laboratory.
Enter ‘Cross Match’ (code VXM) in the other tests section of the request form.

Comments

Avoid haemolysis as 2+ haemolysis gives invalid results.
Beware of agglutinated samples
Major cross match = donor RBCs + recipient serum
Minor cross match = recipient RBCs + donor serum
Ensure EDTA tubes are filled to the correct level (line on tube).
Agglutination or haemolysis may interfere with results.

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States

QLD

Dexamethasone Suppression Test (Canine)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Collect a basal blood (serum) sample.
Administer 0.01 mg/kg IV of Dexamethasone.
Collect two further blood (serum) samples 4 hours and 8 hours later.
Label sample times clearly on the tubes.
Tick Dexamethasone Supp. Test (code VDX) on the submission form.
Submit all 3 samples together to the laboratory

Comments

States

QLD

Dexamethasone Suppression Test (Equine)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Ensure no glucocorticoids have been administered during at least the preceding 48 h (see Notes below).
Maintain the horse in a stress free environment.
5 pm: Collect a resting serum blood sample and label it “0 hr”.
5 pm: Administer dexamethasone sodium phosphate at 0.04 mg/kg IM.
12 noon the following day: Collect a post-dexamethasone blood sample and label it “19 h”.
Tick Equine Cortisol x 2 (code V2C) on the submission form.
Submit both samples together to the laboratory.

Comments

The exact time of day is not critical but serves as a guide.
The interval between samples should be 19 to 24 hours.
Specific testing for hyperadrenocorticism should not be performed in unwell or significantly stressed animals, which may yield false positive results in adrenal function tests.
Any form of corticosteroid therapy may interfere with adrenal function tests, by (a) cross-reacting in the cortisol assay (except for dexamethasone), or (b) affecting the pituitary/adrenal axis via suppression of ACTH production.

States

QLD

Dexamethasone Suppression Test (Feline)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Collect a resting blood sample and label it “0 hr”.
Administer dexamethasone sodium phosphate at 0.1 mg/kg IV.
Collect two further blood (serum) samples 4 hours and 8 hours later.
Tick Dexamethasone Supp. Test (code VDX) on the submission form.
Submit all 3 samples together to the laboratory

Comments

States

QLD

Digoxin

Suitable collection

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
LH
Gel separated clot activator (gel absorbs digoxin from sample)

‍

Minimum sample size

0.75 mL whole blood (minimum 250 uL serum)

‍

Turnaround time

5 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Collect blood sample 4-7 days after start or change in treatment.
Collect blood (serum) sample into a plain/Red top tube within one hour of the next scheduled dose or at least 8 hours after the last dose (trough concentration).

Comments

Collect blood 8-10 hours post-dose (4-7 days after start or change in treatment). Do not use serum tubes that contain activator.
More information on monitoring of therapeutic drugs is available on this webpage.
Do not use Gel/serum separator as the gel may absorb some of the drug, artificially lowering the serum concentration.

States

QLD

Equine Abortion Investigation

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Footnotes:

^a One VHT panel per invesigation (i.e. one charge per investigation)

^b One VTO panel per sample tested (i.e. charge is per dry swab/tissue tested)

^c One VSP (tissue) or VS (swab) panel per sample tested (i.e. charge is per tissue/swab tested)

^d 5-10 tissues

^e Suggested sample is single dry swab of multiple sites across the placenta (amnion, umbilical cord between amnion and chorioallantois, chorioallantois near umbilical cord insertion) (see diagram below). Alternative sample is fresh tissue (chorioallantois or pool of each of those sites).

^f Amnion, umbilical cord between amnion and chorioallantois, chorioallantois near umbilical cord insertion, chorioallantois at cervical pole.

PCR (EHV-1, Chlamydia)

Submit individual tissues in separate sterile screw top jars. Label these jars e.g. “Fresh lung – PCR”
Duplicate sets are not required (i.e. the same piece of tissue or dry swab can be tested for both EHV-1 and Chlamydia if required).

Bacterial culture (panel code VSP or VS)

Additional cultures can be added (e.g. placenta, other tissues showing lesions)
Fungal culture can be added (e.g. placenta, lesions) (panel code VFU)
Take one sample (1 x 2 x 1-2 cm) of each tissue

Histopathology (panel code VMH)

All tissues can be submitted in one screw top jar, if adequate formalin
In addition to standard range of tissues, include any other lesion or tissue showing lesions

SUMMARY

Fresh lung, liver, spleen, thymus (+/- placenta) EHV-1 PCR

Separate labelled sterile screw top jars
OR for placenta, single dry swab (multiple sites across placenta)

Single dry swab (multiple sites across placenta) Chlamydia PCR

Alternative sample is fresh tissue (chorioallantois or pool of each of those sites) (+/- lung).
Separate labelled sterile screw top jars

Fresh stomach contents, lung (or swabs) (+/- placenta) Bacterial culture

Separate labelled sterile screw top jars (or swabs)

Formalin-fixed placenta, lung, liver, spleen, thymus Histopathology

One screw top jar, if adequate formalin

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Equine herpesvirus antibody ELISA (EHV1 and EHV4)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Submission of a single sample is usually of limited value
Collection of paired samples 2-4 weeks (minimum 10 days) apart is necessary to demonstrate recent exposure
Submit the first sample once collected
When submitting the second sample, write on the request form that this is the second sample (and QML lab number of the first sample)
There is no charge for submission of the second sample.

Comments

States

QLD

Export testing (Vetpath form)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

CLICK HERE to download our Export Submission form

States

QLD

Factor VIII

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Fast 12 hours prior to collection, must be a resting sample.
“Clean” (i.e. minimally traumatic) venepuncture is essential and If there are problems with the venepuncture, then another needle and syringe must be used.
Collect a minimum of 3mL whole blood into a Sodium citrate tube ensuring the tube is filled to the correct level to ensure an appropriate ratio of 1 part citrate to 9 parts blood.
Gently mix by inversion.
Centrifuge the sample immediately.
Transfer the plasma into a plain plastic tube (no additive) and ensure the sample is kept refrigerated until arrival at the laboratory.
If a centrifuge is not available: Submit the whole blood sodium citrate tube ensuring that the sample is kept refrigerated the entire time. The sample must arrive at the Brisbane central laboratory within 24hrs of collection.

Comments

Beware of insufficiently filled OR overfilled citrate tubes and expired tubes.
Do NOT transfer to tubes which contain clot activators (gel or powder).

States

QLD

Flow cytometry*

Suitable collection

EDTA (less than 24 hours old)

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

2ml

Turnaround time

7 days

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Specimens for flow cytometry are relatively labile and so timing of submission is important. The following guidelines apply:

Specimens must arrive at the Brisbane laboratory within 24 hours of collection, and preferably on the same day as collection.
It is preferred that specimens are submitted on:
- Mon-Thu (Brisbane metropolitan, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast clinics)
- Mon-Wed (Regional clinics)
By exception, specimens can be submitted outside these time frames though storage artefact may affect the results.
Specimens must be received at Brisbane laboratory by 12 pm Friday at the latest for testing that week.
Specimens received at Brisbane laboratory between 12 pm Friday and 8 am Monday morning may not be suitable for testing.

Haematology Specimen Collection Protocol:

Minimum 3 mL EDTA blood preferably submitted the same day as specimen collection.
Routine haematology must also be performed through QML Pathology Vetnostics (either simultaneously or within the preceding 7 days). If this has not been done, then a Full Blood Count (panel VFB) will be added to the request for Flow Cytometry.
Tick Flow Cytometry box (code VFD) on the request form.

Lymph Node or other Solid Tissue/Organ Aspirate Material Protocol:

Place 1 mL Normal Saline (0.9% NaCl Solution but not Hartmann's solution) in a 2 mL EDTA tube and add 0.1 to 0.2 mL of serum from the patient.
Aspirate the lymph node or other organ mass using suction and gently squirt the contents of the needle and syringe into the EDTA tube with saline and serum.
Draw up saline through the needle and gently squirt back into the tube to obtain more cells.
Repeat this process several times if possible – the saline should become cloudy.
Routine cytology (panel VCY) must also be performed through QML Vetnostics on air-dried smears from the same site (without added saline) (either simultaneously or within the preceding 7 days).
Tick Flow Cytometry box (code VFD) on the request form.

Cavitary Effusion Fluid (Lymphocyte-Rich Effusions) Protocol:

Minimum 2 mL cavitary effusion fluid in an EDTA tube.
Routine fluid analysis and cytology (panel code VFL) must also be performed through QML Vetnostics (either simultaneously or within the preceding 7 days) (Note: saline must not be added to fluids for routine fluid analysis and cytology). If this has not been done, then Fluid Analysis Cytology (panel VFL) will be added to the request for Flow Cytometry.
Tick Flow Cytometry box (code VFD) on the request form.

Peripheral Blood:

Collect minimum of 2ml of blood into EDTA tubes. Prepare 3-4 air dried smears.
Keep samples refrigerated until collection.

Effusion fluids:

Collect a minimum of 2ml of effusion fluid into EDTA tubes. Prepare 3-4 air dried smears.
Keep samples refrigerated until collection.

Lymph node or organ aspirates:

Place 1 ml of normal saline (0.9% NaCl Solution but not Hartmann's solution) in a 2ml EDTA tube and add 0.1 to 0.2 ml of serum from the patient or another animal of the same species.
Aspirate the lymph node or other organ mass using suction and squirt the contents of the needle and syringe into the EDTA tube with saline and serum.
Draw up saline through the needle and gently squirt back into tube to obtain more cells.
Carry out this process several times if possible – the saline should be cloudy.5. It is also recommended that 3-4 well made smears also be made by direct FNA of the lymph node or mass in question for simultaneous cytological examination as well.
Keep samples refrigerated until collection.

Comments

Referred test
Sample must arrive at the Sydney referral laboratory within 48 hours of collection.
Blood samples must be submitted on Monday or Tuesday for overnight courier.
A current CBC from a referral laboratory is required.

‍

States

QLD

Histology - inking margins

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Blot specimen dry using paper towels
Use tissue marking dye (or India ink)
Tissue marking dye can be obtained directly from:
- Trajan/Grale Scientific
- Thermofisher
Best colours are black, blue or green dye. Avoid red.
Different colours may be used to ink different margins in the same mass
Use cotton-topped swab, applicator stick or small artist’s paintbrush to mark the lateral and then the deep surgical margins. Do not submerge the tissue in dye.
Allow to dry for 15 minutes
Place in formalin container with formalin to tissue ratio of at least 10:1

Comments

States

QLD

Histology containers

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Standard histology jars (70, 250 mL) containing formalin are available (free of charge):

Use Vet Supply Requisition form on QML Vetnostics website vetqml.com.au

Larger plastic buckets (1, 2, 5 or 10 litre) can also be obtained from QML:

Brisbane metropolitan clinics: phone Brisbane Histology Cut Up bench 3121 4908
Regional clinics: contact your local QML/TML laboratory directly
These buckets are provided empty. Veterinary clinics will need to source their own bulk formalin (e.g. from a veterinary supplier such as Provet)
These buckets do not leak if the lids are applied correctly:
- Push down firmly around the entire circumference of the lid with the heel of the hand, starting with the tab region
- For the bigger buckets, it may also help to use a rubber mallet to push down the lid
- Problems with leaking are due to failure to press the lid down completely and around the entire circumference, especially if the tab region is left to last as it can buckle slightly inwards preventing the lid from closing all the way.

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Multiple specimens submitted for culture - Charging

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

As a general rule, each specimen is set up and allocated a separate panel (which generates a separate bill for each specimen).

This includes:

Swab and fluid from same site or two fluids from same site (EXCEPT that EDTA fluid would not be set up IF another specimen is received from that site). EDTA fluid is not recommended for culture as EDTA may have an inhibitory effect on some microorganisms.
Multiple swabs from the same site with no distinguishing labels. In which case we will arbitrarily label them “1, 2, 3” etc. and retain such labelling in the panel and report (three panels would be billed in this example.
Any number of swabs, tissues or fluids from a necropsy case.

EXCEPTIONS to the “number of specimens = number of panels” rule include:

Notation on the request form specifically directing:
- Which specimen to use
- To “choose best specimen”. In which case the order of preference (in descending order) is usually tissue, fluid, swab unless more than 48 hours since specimens collected (in which case swab is usually best).
- To pool specimens (though this is not a recommended practice).
Swab of urine submitted as well as urine in a pot, in which case both are set up but only one panel is reported and billed.
EDTA fluid from a site for which swab or plain fluid has also been submitted. In which case the other specimen is set up (and billed) but not the EDTA fluid.
Multiple BAL/TTW samples with no distinguishing labels, in which case we will choose one non-EDTA specimen with the most surfactant/mucus, arbitrarily label it “1” and use it to set up culture (and bill for one panel).
If two specimens from the same site are submitted and bacterial culture and fungal culture (or mycobacterial culture) are requested, we will arbitrarily label the specimens 1 and 2 and use only one for bacterial culture and one for fungal culture (or mycobacterial culture).

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) - Canine

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Animal should be fasted prior to collection
Avoid haemolysis and lipaemia
Collect 2 mL blood in red top (plain serum) tube
Allow to clot at room temperature for 30-60 minutes
Centrifuge
Transfer serum (minimum 1 mL) into a plain screw top plastic tube (no additive)
Freeze serum and transport frozen. When booking QML courier, specifically request a FROZEN sample pickup
Before handing sample to courier, check they are correctly equipped for FROZEN sample collection (with DRY ICE or equivalent product)

Comments

Canine PTH requests will include PTH only. If ionised calcium is also required, send a separate dedicated ionised calcium sample following the collection protocol for ionised calcium. If Vitamin D (25-OH) is required, follow the Vitamin D (25-OH) collection protocol.

States

QLD

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) - Feline

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

PTH in cats is performed in combination with 25-OHVitamin D and ionised calcium. Please refer to Vitamin D Profile – Feline for collection guidelines.

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Parathyroid Hormone Related Peptide (PTH-rP) - Test is unavailable

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

This test is not currently available

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Contact lab in advance and request special tube (PTH-rp is unstable and requires a special EDTA tube containing an additive to prevent in vitro degradation). Store this tube chilled.
Fast the patient overnight.
Collect at least 2.5ml whole blood into the chilled special EDTA tube, invert/mix gently.
Centrifuge the sample immediately.
Transfer the plasma into a plain plastic tube (no additive) and freeze immediately.
Samples must be sent frozen and should still be frozen upon arrival at the laboratory. Specifically request a frozen sample collection by courier.

Comments

Please contact the QML Pathology Referred Tests Department (Ph: 07 3121 4045) in the Brisbane central laboratory to order the special EDTA tubes containing additive required for this assay

States

QLD

Phenobarbitone

Suitable collection

PC
EDTA
LH

‍

Unsuitable collection

‍

Minimum sample size

0.75 ml whole blood

‍

Turnaround time

24 hours

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Collect blood sample into a plain/Red top tube within one hour of the next scheduled dose or at least 8 hours after the last dose (trough concentration).

Comments

Collect sample at any time between doses.
More information on monitoring of therapeutic drugs is available on this website.
Thiopentone anaesthesia does not interfere.‍
Do not use Gel/serum separator tubes as the gel may absorb some of the drug, artificially lowering the serum concentration.
Steady-state serum and tissue phenobarbitone concentrations are achieved after 7-10 days of therapy.
Induction of liver enzymes (ALP and to a lesser extent ALT) is common in animals receiving phenobarbitone therapy.

States

QLD

Poison screen general

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

This includes stimulants, depressants and tranquillisers.For the complete list of substances routinely tested, click here‍

‍Note:
Strychnine can only be tested in urine using this screen
To test for strychnine in stomach contents or bait, see Strychnine‍

‍Specimen:

Urine: minimum 3-5 mL

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (Psittacine circovirus)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

The following tests are available:

HI (haemagglutination inhibition) for detection of antibody
HA (haemagglutination test) for detection of viral antigen in feathers
PCR for detection of viral nucleic acid
Histopathology

These tests answer different questions:

HI demonstrates whether a bird has antibody and as such is an indication of previous infection.
HA demonstrates whether a bird is shedding virus in feather dander. It is less sensitive than PCR for detection of infection but is more specific than PCR for confirming chronic PBFD.
PCR is considered more sensitive than HA in that it will detect more infected birds, since it picks up infected cells as well as excreted virus. However, the extreme sensitivity of PCR may lead to false positives due to contamination of non-infected material (e.g. with infected feather dander during sampling), or cross-contamination within the laboratory. PCR may also yield results that are difficult to interpret (e.g. PCR may detect circovirus DNA for several weeks following recovery from infection). PCR is the best test to determine whether a live bird is currently infected.
In a live bird, HI, HA and PCR tests should be run together to provide as complete a picture as possible regarding the infection and disease status of the bird. Running the HA and PCR together provides different information that along with the age, species and clinical signs provides a more accurate assessment of the disease status of individual birds. The presence of HI antibody in a PCR-positive bird in many species is associated with full recovery from the infection.
Histopathology may be used to demonstrate the presence of disease (i.e. compatible lesions) and circovirus inclusion bodies.

LIVE BIRD specimens:

Blood (suitable for HI and PCR). This can be either:

- Blood spot on filter paper (minimum 6 mm diameter circle of blood, which must penetrate the filter paper) (FTA cards are not suitable for HI). Allow to dry at room temperature for 12-24 hours in a vertical position. Then store in a ziplock bag at 4°C until shipment. Does not have to be refrigerated during shipment (preferably ship within 48 hours of collection). OR
- EDTA whole blood (minimum 0.2 mL). Refrigerate during shipment.
If only serum, plasma or lithium heparin whole blood is available (rather than - EDTA whole blood), this can be used for HI and PCR but is not the preferred sample.

Feathers (suitable for HA and PCR):

- New growth feather or dystrophic feathers with a blood-filled quill (minimum 2 feathers). A good site is over the thigh (under wings). Store in a ziplock bag at 4°C until shipment. Does not have to be refrigerated during shipment (preferably ship within 48 hours of collection).

Formalin-fixed skin and developing feather follicle biopsies (affected dystrophic feathers or new growth feathers; minimum 2 feathers). Suitable for histopathology.

DEAD BIRD specimens:

Fresh tissues for PCR:

- spleen, liver, affected dystrophic feathers

Formalin fixed tissues for Histopathology. The best tissues to submit are affected dystrophic feathers, cloacal bursa, spleen and crop, though submission of a complete set of tissues is recommended to pursue other possible diagnoses or to diagnose concurrent infections.

Panel code BFD:Each test (HI, HA and PCR) will generate a separate charge.
If blood and feathers are submitted, all three tests (HI, HA and PCR) will be done unless the request form indicates otherwise.
If blood only is submitted, two tests (HI and PCR) will be done unless the request form indicates otherwise.
If feathers only are submitted, two tests (HA and PCR) will be done unless the request form indicates otherwise.

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Respiratory PCR – Feline

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

A sterile dry swab with plastic shaft (stores code 684738) is used to obtain a sample from affected areas, most commonly the conjunctival sac and oropharynx. DO NOT use swabs with wooden stem, or swabs in bacterial transport medium.
Any visible lesions in the nasal and oral cavities should be sampled.
The swab should be moistened with sterile saline and rubbed vigorously across the affected areas/conjunctival sac in an effort to obtain epithelial cells that may contain infectious organisms.
Place the swab into a sterile sealed container (eg: break/cut the swab and submit within a sterile urine container).

Comments

The sample should be collected before any use of fluorescein and should be transported dry, not in any transport medium
Local anaesthetic drops can be used if the cat is fractious.
To maximise the possibility of successful recovery of organisms, samples should be collected during the acute phase of infection and prior to any therapy.

States

QLD

Strangles (Streptococcus equi subsp equi infection) in horses

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Acute disease

Samples should be collected 24-48 h after onset of fever
Swabs and washes (both) should be collected
PCR (panel code RPE, Respiratory PCR Panel Equine) AND culture (panel code VS and VSP should be requested on all samples
This will detect around 95% of infected horses.

Recommended samples to collect before development of abscesses are:

Nasal/nasopharyngeal swabs
Use the same swab for both nasal cavities
- For PCR, use sterile dry swab with plastic shaft (Stores code 684738)
- For culture, use bacterial culture swab with transport medium
Nasopharyngeal lavage/wash (pool fluid samples from both nasal cavities).

Pus (aspirated) from an unopened abscess is also suitable for testing.

Transfer to a swab
DO NOT submit pus in a syringe for testing.

Pus or exudate from a ruptured abscess is not recommended for bacterial culture, as any S equi subsp equi may be overgrown by other bacteria (including potentially S equi subsp zooepidemicus).Carrier horses
Recommended samples to collect are:

3 nasopharyngeal swabs and washes, collected 7 days apart, OR
a single guttural pouch lavage plus a single nasopharyngeal swab/wash
PCR on these samples will detect around 90% of carrier horses.
The addition of culture may slightly increase the detection rate.

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Collect washes/lavages into a sterile container (10 mL sterile yellow screw top centrifuge tube, Stores code 682574). A 10 mL specimen volume is preferred.To perform nasal wash, instil 50 mL warm sterile saline via a 50 cm length of sterile soft tubing (5-6 cm diameter). Insert into the nasal cavity via the ventral nasal meatus. All samples should be refrigerated and kept cool during transport to the laboratory.

Comments

States

QLD

Strychnine*

Suitable collection

Stomach contents or Vomitus - freeze
Bait

‍

Unsuitable collection

Blood
Urine

‍

Minimum sample size

50 mL stomach contents frozen

‍

Turnaround time

6 - 8 weeks

‍

General

Urine:Minimum 3-5 mL

Request Poison screen (panel code VDU) in the “Other Tests” section of the request form

Stomach contents or suspected bait material:

Minimum 5g
- The more stomach content submitted the better, to reduce the risk of non-homogenous mixing of poison within the stomach
- Smaller amounts can be tested but this will increase the limit of detection

Request Strychnine (panel code VTO) in the “Other Tests” section of the request form

Contact laboratory for price

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Comments

States

QLD

Taurine*

Suitable collection

Lithium heparin

‍

Unsuitable collection

EDTA
PC
CIT

‍

Minimum sample size

3 ml (at least 1ml plasma is required)

‍

Turnaround time

3 weeks

‍

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Animal should be fasted prior to collection
Avoid haemolysis and lipaemia
Collect at least 1 mL blood in lithium heparin tube
Centrifuge
Transfer plasma (minimum 300 uL) into a plain screw top plastic tube (no additive)
Freeze plasma (ideally for at least 12 hours) and transport frozen
When booking QML courier, specifically request a frozen sample pickup
Before handing sample to courier, check they are correctly equipped for FROZEN sample collection (with DRY ICE or equivalent product).

Comments

Referred test
Sample must be submitted within 4 hours of collection for separation and freezing.

‍

States

QLD

Tripsin-Like Immunoreactivity (TLI): (Canine, Feline)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Fast the patient for 12 hours. Failure to fast the patient before sample collection may increase the TLI.
Collect serum blood into plain/red top or SST.

Comments

Treatment with pancreatic enzyme supplements does not affect serum TLI concentration.
Concurrent intestinal disease does not affect serum TLI concentration.
Active pancreatitis, marked reduction in GFR, and malnourishment may increase serum TLI concentration.

States

QLD

Urine Cortisol:Creatinine Ratio (chemiluminescent)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

If glucocorticoids have been administered recently, refer to Notes below.
Collection should be performed at home to maintain the dog in a stress free environment.
Preferably collect the urine sample in the morning.

Comments

The urine cortisol creatinine ratio is a screening test for hyperadrenocorticism in dogs.
This test methodology should not be used for monitoring patients on treatment for hyperadrenocorticism.
Any form of corticosteroid therapy may interfere with adrenal function tests, partly by affecting the pituitary/adrenal axis via suppression of ACTH production.
As a guide, the minimum periods for which corticosteroid therapy should be withheld before adrenal function testing are:
o Injectable (short acting) 7 days (48 h if dexamethasone)
o Oral 2 weeks
o Topical 2 weeks
o Injectable (depot) 2 months

States

QLD

Vitamin D (25-OH) standalone (Canine, Feline)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Animal should be fasted prior to collection to reduce lipaemia and haemolysis
Collect a minimum of 2 mL whole blood into red top (plain serum) tube
Allow to clot at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, centrifuge and transfer serum into a plain screw top plastic tube (no additive). Refrigerate.

Comments

If parathyroid hormone (PTH) or ionised calcium are also required, please send separate dedicated tubes for those tests, following their specific collection instructions.

States

QLD

Vitamin D Profile (Feline only)

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

This Profile includes Feline PTH, Vitamin D (25-OH) and Ionised Calcium.

Animal must be fasted prior to collection. Avoid haemolysis and lipaemia
Collect 4 mL blood into red top (plain serum) tube
Allow to clot at room temperature for 30-60 minutes
Centrifuge
Transfer serum (absolute minimum 1.5 mL) into a plain screw top plastic tube (no additive)
Freeze serum and transport frozen
‍When booking courier, specifically request a frozen sample pickup
Before handing sample to courier, check they are correctly equipped for FROZEN sample collection (with DRY ICE or equivalent product).

Comments

States

QLD

Von Willebrands Factor

Suitable collection

Unsuitable collection

Minimum sample size

Turnaround time

General

Background

For background, click here.

Indications

Interpretation of bacterial culture results

Collection protocol

Fast 12 hours prior to collection, must be a resting sample.
“Clean” (i.e. minimally traumatic) venepuncture is essential and If there are problems with the venepuncture, then another needle and syringe must be used.
Collect a minimum of 3mL whole blood into a Sodium citrate tube ensuring the tube is filled to the correct level to ensure an appropriate ratio of 1 part citrate to 9 parts blood.
Gently mix by inversion.
Centrifuge the sample immediately.
Transfer the plasma into a plain plastic tube (no additive) and ensure the sample is kept refrigerated until arrival at the laboratory.
If a centrifuge is not available: Submit the whole blood sodium citrate tube ensuring that the sample is kept refrigerated the entire time. The sample must arrive at the Brisbane central laboratory within 24hrs of collection.

Comments

Beware of insufficiently filled OR overfilled citrate tubes and expired tubes.
Do NOT transfer to tubes which contain clot activators (gel or powder)
It is not recommended that dogs be tested for vWD until six weeks after a significant bleeding episode.

States

QLD

Test guides & publications QLD