Sample Storage

Samples should be sent to the Laboratory as soon as possible. However, if this cannot be done, please follow the instructions below for appropriate storage. Specimen Storage Comments Histology Seminal fluid must be fresh infertility must reach lab within 2 hrs Routine histology in fixative Biochemistry Electrolytes (U&E) fresh and unrefrigerated Other routine specimens refrigerate contact the lab for storage of esoteric tests Haematology Blood film and INR must be fresh - few hours old ESR, FBC refrigerate Immunology HLA, cell studies must be fresh, few hours old Other specimens refrigerate Microbiology Swabs - in transport medium refrigerate Fastidious organisms may be lost Urine refrigerate Boric acid helps preserve organisms. Specimens must be taken prior to commencing antibiotic therapy Sputum fresh <8 hrs Faeces refrigerate Enteric pathogens remain viable except Shigella Tissue, pus, fluids refrigerate nature of specimen helps preserve pathogens Fungal scrapings room temperature Chlamydia - antigen room temperature