Avian, Exotics, & Small Mammal Testing   Hematology For avians and reptiles, a blood smear and 2 microhematocrit tubes are preferred. Use microscope slides for blood smears, as cover slips produce less than optimal smears and are easily broken. Smears that are too thick or lack a "feathered-edge" will compromise the accuracy of results obtained. Microhematocrit tubes should be at least half full. For small mammals, a lavender top (LT) Microtainer™ tube is preferred. Fill the tube between the 2 lines and invert 6-8 times to ensure proper mixing of blood with the EDTA anticoagulant.   Chemistry Profiles The preferred specimen for blood chemistry testing is a spun green top tube (GRT) containing a separator gel. This tube is often referred to as a plasma separator tube. The tube needs to be filled to the top line (0.6 mL) to ensure adequate sample volume, inverted 6-8 times to ensure proper mixing of blood and heparin anticoagulant, and centrifuged immediately.   Other Tests Serology (antibody testing) can be performed from either a spun GRT with gel or spun Microtainer™ serum separator tube (SST). PCR (DNA) testing on birds requires whole blood. A Microtainer™ GRT without gel is preferred. A GRT with gel can also be used, but must not be centrifuged. A Microtainer™ LT is the specimen of choice for measuring lead concentrations. Whole blood in an unspun GRT is also acceptable. or determination of zinc concentrations, submit a spun GRT with gel or a spun Microtainer™ SST. For other tests, refer to the February 2000 Antech News or contact our Avian and Exotic Client Service representatives.       Please send comments to the webmaster. ©1997-2008 Antech Diagnostics, Inc. Site design and maintenance by amesDesign.