Site Map |
FAQ |
Glossary |
Health Links |
Contact
Haematology Department
 |
Core Haematology |
|
Specialist Haematology and Haemostasis |
|
Surface Markers |
|
Cytogenetics |
The discipline encompasses a comprehensive range of diagnostic and clinical services covering all blood cell and coagulation disorders. The diagnostic and clinical services are closely related. The expertise and equipment available within the laboratory enables the unit to contract for and provide for special projects.
The Core Haematology section uses the advanced Sysmex XE Expertline and Haematology Sample Transportation system to processes up to 900 complete blood counts per day; these modern analysers assure a prompt, reliable and cost effective service. Expert morphological assessment using Cellavision technology and microscopy for comment and differential diagnoses are provided by medical laboratory scientists, registrars and six consultant haematologists.
A consultative service is available for referral of blood and bone marrow analyses. A haematologist is available at all times.
Specialist Haematology and Haemostasis
The area of Specialist Haematology combines haemostasis with haematology special tests for the investigation of haemoglobinopathies, thalassaemia and haemolytic anaemia. Specimens are referred from throughout New Zealand.
The Haemostasis section provides an extensive range of tests for the investigation of bleeding and thrombotic disorders. This specialist section is the referral centre for many hospital and private laboratories throughout New Zealand. A close link with other specialist laboratories in Australasia is maintained via the Australasian Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis. The comprehensive repertoire of coagulation tests supports the Haemostasis Service in its clinical programme of bleeding and thrombotic disorder management, including clinical trial work.
The Haematology Special Tests section offers a full range of testing for the diagnosis of common inherited red cell disorders. A full haemoglobinopathy and thalassaemia screening service is provided along with the provision of patient information pamphlets and patient cards. Close liaison is retained with the Molecular Pathology section of Canterbury Health Laboratories allows a full and complete diagnosis to be made.
The section also provides haemopoietic stem cell processing and quality assessment of stem cell products to the South Island Bone Marrow Transplant Unit via contract to the New Zealand Blood Service (NZBS). A full allogenic and autologous processing service is provided which includes cord blood and bone marrow collection, red cell and plasma depletion processes and CFU-GM assay.
The Surface markers department utilises
flow cytometry technology for the detection and classification of leukaemia and lymphoma.
The analysis forms part of an integrated approach incorporating morphological, immunophenotypic, cytogenetic and
molecular assessment necessary for the diagnosis and management of many
haematological disorders. Other tests available include CD34 analysis for stem cell
transplantation, GPI linked antigen analysis for the detection of PNH, and
limited platelet glycoprotein analysis. The surface markers department also looks after the administration for bone marrow
aspirate and trephine samples.
The Cytogenetics section offers a comprehensive specialist service encompassing prenatal, postnatal, haematological and oncological testing.
Conventional chromosome (karyotype) analysis of:
Fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) analysis of various tissue types with an extensive range of probes for example:
The section comprises of mix of scientists and technicians, and has hosted several students over recent years. Participation in ongoing internal and external QAP programmes of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia ensures continued quality of service. The laboratory is equipped with a semi-automated karyotyping and image analysis system.
 |
|
|
| Canterbury Health Laboratories |