One of the most difficult aspects of avian and exotic animal testing is obtaining a large enough blood sample to make a diagnosis without harming the patient. At Antech Diagnostics, this problem is addressed by selecting chemistry analyzers that accurately measure very small specimens and modifying hematology assays.

The ANTECH Services Directory lists the quantity and type of Microtainer® required for each assay. These should be filled completely to minimize effects of anticoagulant dilution, cell degradation and small specimen volume. If the requested specimen volume cannot be obtained, PRIORITIZE THE TESTS REQUESTED! If you do not prioritize, Antech will run the tests in the following order: Abbreviated CBC, Uric Acid, ALT, AST, CK, Ca, Phosphorus, Total Protein, BUN, Creatinine, ALP, Glucose, Total Bilirubin, Cholesterol, Na/K/Cl, Albumin, Globulin, other assays. Small specimen volumes often make it impossible to verify questionable results by repeat analysis.

The following collection devices are available from Antech:

• Fresh Smears: Two well made FRESH blood slides (no anticoagulant added) must be submitted with every avian/exotic CBC request. The smears are used for evaluating cellular morphology, WBC estimate and differential, and blood parasite screen.
  
• Heparinized Capillary (Microhematocrit) Tube: This specimen can only be used for a spun microhematocrit and nothing else. Please DO NOT place adhesive labels directly on this fragile tube! Instead, slide the tube into a labeled plain red-top VacutainerŽ tube.
  
• Heparinized (Green) MicrotainerŽ SST (with gel): This specimen should be centrifuged at your clinic to separate the plasma from the cells, thus preserving the chemistry constituents. After centrifugation, this specimen CANNOT be used to evaluate the CBC. Immediate refrigeration promotes stability. Please DO NOT attempt to transfer the plasma from this container to another transport tube, as sample recovery will be diminished.