Understanding Your Laboratory Testing Pathway
Welcome to our laboratory services. We are here to support your healthcare journey by providing an accurate and timely diagnostic pathology/laboratory service, samples are received only from healthcare professionals. Below is an overview of the testing pathways for different specialties and how your samples and information are managed:
Microbiology
Microbiology tests help diagnose infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Your sample (e.g., blood, urine, or a swab) is collected and sent to the lab. Here, it undergoes culture and sensitivity testing to identify the microorganism and determine the best treatment.
Virology
Virology focuses on detecting viral infections. Samples such as blood or nasal swabs are analysed using advanced techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to identify viruses such as influenza or COVID-19. Results guide your doctor in managing your condition.
Serology
The virus serology section detects antibodies to viruses and viral antigens in serum using automated assays. In addition, some bacterial antibodies are also assayed in this section.
Blood Sciences
This includes Biochemistry, Haematology, and Immunology. Blood samples are tested for markers like glucose, cholesterol, or hormones to assess organ function, detect anaemia, or monitor immune responses. Automated analysers ensure quick and precise results.
Cellular Pathology
Histology examines tissue samples to diagnose a variety of diseases. This includes biopsies, intraoperative samples and surgical samples. Cytology focuses on the interpretation of cells from body fluids and samples on spread slides from Fine needle aspirates.
A pathologist studies the cells under a microscope to provide detailed insights into your condition, helping your doctor plan the best treatment.
Genetics
Genetic testing analyses your DNA to identify inherited conditions/acquired conditions or predispositions to certain diseases. This involves extracting DNA from a blood or saliva sample and using specialised techniques to detect genetic variation.
What Happens to Your Samples?
Once collected, your samples are carefully labelled with unique identifiers to ensure accuracy. They are stored and transported under strict conditions to maintain their integrity. For example, some samples are refrigerated, while others are processed immediately. The NHS follows rigorous protocols to prevent contamination or loss, ensuring reliable results. There are detailed specimen retention and discard protocols followed in the laboratories.
With appropriate consent, utilisation of archived samples for research purposes is conducted under strict ethical guidelines and regulatory approvals, ensuring patient anonymity, consent and compliance with relevant authorities, such as the Human Tissue Authority.
Control of Your Information
NUTH ILM (Newcastle Hospitals Integrated Laboratory Medicine) is committed to safeguarding your personal data. Your test results and related information are stored securely and accessed only by authorised healthcare professionals involved in your care. The results of your samples can also be viewed on your NHS app if appropriately set up to do so. Information governance policies ensure that your data is handled ethically and transparently, in compliance with legal and regulatory standards. You can trust that your privacy is a top priority.
What is a Pathology Report?
A pathology report is a detailed document that explains the findings of tests performed on your tissues, cells, or bodily fluids. It is crucial in diagnosing and monitoring diseases. Think of it as a roadmap that helps your doctor understand what is happening inside your body and decide on the best treatment plan.
Once the analysis is complete, the findings are compiled into a pathology report. This includes:
- A clear description of the sample.
- Test results and whether any abnormalities were found.
- A diagnosis or interpretation explaining what the results mean.
- Recommendations for further tests or treatments, if needed.
Laboratories follow strict protocols to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results. Every step is carefully reviewed before the report is finalized.
Your pathology report is sent to your healthcare provider, who will explain the results to you and discuss the next steps.
Why are Pathology Reports Important?
Pathology reports are essential for providing precise diagnoses, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and tailoring care to your individual needs. Rest assured, your samples and personal information are handled with the highest levels of care and confidentiality within the NHS or your healthcare provider.
If you have questions about your report or the testing process, your healthcare provider can provide detailed answers and guidance.
What Happens Next?
Once your sample is processed, the results are sent to your healthcare provider. The results of your samples can also be viewed on your NHS app if appropriately set up to do so. The healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you and decide on the next steps in your care plan. We are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centred services.
If you have any questions about your tests, please don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider.