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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HPV Primary Screening Postponed Go-live
July 11, 2023
Following the announcement on Friday 7th July by the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health regarding the postponed go-live date for HPV Primary testing to 12th September 2023 as below, please note the change in HPV swab distribution dates. SurePath orders will be dispatched as they are received but HPV swab orders will not be dispatched until the week starting 28th August 2023. The HPV swabs must not…
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Change of Urine Tubes
July 11, 2023
Pathlab are changing from the 6mL Greiner VACUETTE yellow top urine Z tubes (no additives) to BD tan top urine tubes (no additives) for biochemistry urine tests (e.g. Microalbumin; Protein/Creatinine Ratio, etc.) The BD tan top urine tubes are the current tube required for Microbiology testing. Table showing current urine tubes and new tubes Please exhaust your existing stock of VACUTETTE yellow…
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HPV Screening - Wider Regions
June 27, 2023
The current National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) utilising cervical cytology as the primary test will change from Wednesday 26th July 2023. The new primary screening test from this date will be the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) nuclei acid amplification test. This new HPV molecular test will be more sensitive than the current cytology leading to better health outcomes for the women of New…
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