Requests for further/additional tests
 
The laboratory retains samples where possible for a short period until a report has been issued. It is therefore possible to contact the laboratory to ask for further tests to be added. Below are guidelines for the timescale within which this is possible. In some instances all the sample has been used and so these requests are not always possible.
 
Please note:  request forms should be generated by the sender for additional tests that are requested.
 
 
Bacteriology Tests
 
Times for additional tests for bacterial investigation are limited due to the probability of bacterial overgrowth in the sample. This may also affect any results obtained from additional testing within the timescale given.
 
 
Urines:                                               24 hours post collection
 
Respiratory samples:                      These are completely processed when tested and additional tests are NOT possible.
 
TB/Mycobacterial testing:               These are completely processed when tested and additional tests are NOT possible.
 
Other samples:                                 48 hours post collection
 
 
 
Serology/Virology Tests
 
Blood samples:                                10 days from date of collection.
 
Virology samples:                            48 hours post collection, where sample still available.
 
 
 
Molecular, including Chlamydia/Neisseria gonorrhoeae
 
Blood samples:                                10 days from date of collection
 
Chlamydia/N. gonorrhoeae:           These samples are specific for this test and cannot be used for other tests.
 
Other samples:                                 48 hours post collection, where sample still available.