Skin Prick Request Form Changes
September 11, 2023
The Pathlab skin prick testing request form has been updated and is now an online form: https://www.pathlab.co.nz/skin-prick. Please use ONLY this form to request skin prick testing at Pathlab. Aeroallergens will always be performed as a panel, and only when clinically indicated due to allergic rhinitis/conjunctivitis or asthma. A maximum of five foods can be selected, but please choose only those…
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HPV Primary Screening (BOP, Waikato, Lakes)
September 07, 2023
The new Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Primary Screening Program goes live from Tuesday 12th September. The HPV test can either be performed on the current liquid-based cytology (LBC) sample (SurePath) or utilising a self-collected or clinician collect vaginal swab. You must use the HPV specific swab and buffer tube. Cytology will still be utilised but as a reflex test for HPV positive patients or co…
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Microbiology Requesting
August 09, 2023
This communication is on behalf of Pathlab Microbiology to inform you that like many other places, we are currently experiencing some staffing challenges. Despite our team’s best effort to maintain optimal service levels, we anticipate that there may be occasional delays with testing and reporting microbiology results over the forthcoming months. To optimise the processing of critical samples and…
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Lipase to Replace Amylase Testing
July 31, 2023
Effective 7th August 2023 all Pathlab sites will be offering Lipase as a better alternative to Amylase. Amylase and lipase are digestive enzymes normally released from the acinar cells of the exocrine pancreas into the duodenum. Following injury to the pancreas, these enzymes are released into the circulation and cause a subsequent increase in their measured activity. Both amylase and lipase are…
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Urine Electrophoresis (BJP) Testing Update
July 20, 2023
Request serum free light chains instead of BJP when investigating for a monoclonal gammopathy. BJP testing will be restricted to haematologists as from Monday 31 July 2023. BJP testing will only be performed when requested by a haematologist, or if testing has been authorised by a haematologist and is clearly stated on the request form. Rationale: Bence Jones Protein was first described in 1845 by…
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