Aspirate microscopy and culture

Department

Microbiology - Bacteriology

Delphic Registration Code

ASP

Laboratory Handling

Registration

URGENT sample - fast track and notify department

Synonyms

Bi-refringent crystals
Cell count
Crystal examination
Gout
Pseudogout
Quantitative cell count

Turnaround Time

2 weeks

Test Code

2125

Specimen Type

• Aspirate

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Syringe

Acceptable

• Pottle

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Syringe

Acceptable

• Pottle

Pre-testing Requirements

Pre-Testing Requirements - Not required but necessary if required urgently, please contact the laboratory.

Additional Specimen Information

Patient Specimen - Aspirate in capped syringe* or sterile pottle

For cell counts and differential - put aspirate into EDTA tube and mix.
Deliver ambient temperature, to lab ASAP. Do not send syringe with attached needles.Use protective cap on syringes or deliver sample in person.

Aliquot Instructions

Test Method

Microscopy (polarised microscopy if requested, quantitative cell count if requested or if EDTA tube is received**) Gram stain and culture

PLEASE NOTE: EDTA ONLY IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CULTURE

Full fungal culture if requested.

Non-Funded Test Cost

$15.81 (Exclusive of GST)

Billing Code

2125

Microbiology to aliquot to other departments.*Do not send syringe with attached needles.Use protective cap on syringes or deliver sample in person. Clotted specimen gives equivocal cell counts.

Contact Information

Enquiry Form