Hematology Tests
We offer a variety of hematology tests (e.g. hemogram) as well as individual tests for both mammalian and non-mammalian species. Please refer to the detailed for additional testing information
Mammals:
The standard hematology test is a routine hemogram (CBC). This is performed with our hematology analyzer, the Advia . The CBC provides white blood cell parameters (white blood cell count, differential cell count and leukocyte morphology), red cell parameters (red cell count, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit, red cell indices and red cell morphology), platelet parameters (platelet count, mean platelet volume and smear estimate), total protein (by refractometer) and plasma appearance.
To obtain more information about the individual components of each test, and to view our publication ready report format click here.
Non-Mammalian Hemogram
Because non-mammalian species have nucleated red blood cells, their blood cannot be analyzed through automated cell counters. Therefore, we have to use traditional bench methods, including blood smear examination for a differential cell count, for performing hemograms. Only small amounts of blood can be collected from these animals, Use of microtainer EDTA (purple top) tubes.
Note: There are certain species of birds, e.g. cranes, and reptiles, e.g. turtles, whose blood hemolyzes on contact with EDTA. For these species, blood can be collected directly from the needle into a eosinopette for WBC counts, into a heparinized microhematocrit tube for measurement of PCV and fresh blood smears can be made directly.
Alternatively collect the blood into citrate. However, the correct citrate to blood ratio must be maintained, i.e. 1 part citrate to 9 parts blood. Ideally, the citrate should be placed into the syringe and the appropriate volume of blood withdrawn directly into anticoagulant. For example, to collect 1 ml blood, 0.1 ml citrate is placed into a syringe and 0.9 ml of blood is taken from the patient (collect blood up to the 1 ml mark).
If less blood is collected, you will have to resample, hence make sure you can obtain the correct amount of blood. We require at least 500 µL of blood for performing a hemogram, hence you can collect only this amount of blood, which is achievable in most non-mammalian patients. The correct amount of citrate to blood must be maintained because citrate dilutes the blood; this dilution must be corrected for when evaluating the hemogram (i.e. each value should be multiplied by 1.1 for a 1:9 citrate:blood ratio).
Heparin is not recommended as an anticoagulant because leukocytes and thrombocytes clump, invalidating WBC counts and differential cell counts.
Individual Tests
We offer many individual hematology tests. This is useful for research samples. In this case, samples other than EDTA may be acceptable, however before samples are submitted to the laboratory for hematology testing in any other anticoagulant than EDTA, please contact the laboratory. These include the following:
Red blood cell count: The preferred sample is EDTA.
Hemoglobin concentration: The preferred sample is EDTA.
Hematocrit (HCT):
The hematocrit is a calculated value from the Advia hematology analyzer. The Advia measures the red cell count and mean cell volume directly, then calculates the HCT. Therefore, only EDTA is acceptable.
Packed cell volume (PCV) :
The packed cell volume is directly measured from a microhematocrit tube after blood has been centrifuged within a microhematocrit centrifuge. Depending on the species, the PCV is usually higher than the calculated HCT because of plasma trapping. A packed cell volume can be determined from blood collected into any anticoagulant.
White blood cell count :
The preferred sample is EDTA, however we can perform white cell counts in blood collected into citrate and heparin anticoagulants.
Platelet count :
A platelet count is automatically included as part of a routine hemogram in all non-mammalian species, whose blood can be analyzed through the Advia (this excludes llamas and alpacas). A count will only be provided if it is considered accurate by our technicians. If the Advia does not count platelets or the count is inaccurate due to clumping or interference from cell debris, a platelet count will not be included unless this has been specifically requested for that sample. On these rare occasions, a manual count will be added to the sample at extra cost. Please note that platelet clumps usually invalidate a count and if platelet clumps are observed in a peripheral blood smear, manual counts will not be performed on that sample.
Total protein by refractometer :
Total protein can be measured by refractometer in blood collected into any anticoagulant.
Reticulocyte count :
Reticulocytes are counted with the Advia providing absolute and percent and indices.
Fecal occult blood :
The indication for this test is to confirm gastrointestinal blood loss. This test is performed on feces and is based on the pseudo-peroxidase activity of hemoglobin. ( Link to Fecal anahysis) Clotting Profile:
Coagulation and Fibrinolysis
Genetic Toxicity (Reticulocyte count, bone marrow of peripheral blood): Test compounds may have an effect on the hematopoietic system and therefore appropriate measures should be employed so that evaluations of Reticulocyte counts . We provide an absolute reticulocyte count, which gives a more accurate assessment of the bone marrow response to anemia than the reticulocyte percentage. A bone marrow cytology may be performed if necessary.