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Biochemistry
Services:
- Blood chemistry analysis
- Macro-elements: Calcium, Inorganic Phosphorus, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride.
- Micro-elements (trace): Copper, Zinc, Selenium.
- Proteins: Albumin, Total Plasma Proteins, Globulin.
- Enzymes: Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Gamma-glutamyltransferase (Y-GT).
- Other: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), Glucose, Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Total bilirubin, Direct bilirubin, Haematocrit.
- Liver analysis
- Micro-elements: Copper, Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Selenium, Molybdenum.
- Feed samples
- Trace element analysis.
Blood samples
- The blood sample should be sent for analysis as soon as possible and should be kept cool (0 - 10°C). The sample should not be frozen, as this may cause haemolysis.
- Heparin or EDTA may be used as an anticoagulant for Plasma. However, heparin is preferred as it interferes with the least number of tests. Heparin should be used for Calcium and Chloride analysis.
- Whole blood (heparinised blood) should be sent for selenium analysis.
- If zinc is to be analysed on serum, cling wrap should be placed between the tube and the red rubber stopper as the rubber stopper contains trace amounts of zinc, which may result in elevated readings.
- Serum is generally preferred for analysis and normal values quoted are for serum only (except selenium).
- Haemolysis should be avoided at all times as this changes certain constituents in the blood and therefore affects the readings.
Test fees
Refer to the laboratory’s latest price list.
Contact person (technical matters)
Reneé Pieterse: Veterinary technician
Tel: +27 021-887-0324
Fax: +27 021- 886-5341
E-mail: reneep@wcape.agric.za
