Blood and Urine Labratory Tests for Veterinary Assistants

This paragraph introduces the topic of diagnostics in a lab setting, focusing on hematology, the study of blood. It explains the difference between hematology tests, which analyze whole blood, and clinical chemistry tests, which use spun-down blood to obtain serum or plasma. The speaker details the composition of blood, highlighting red blood cells (44%), white blood cells (less than 1%), platelets (less than 1%), and plasma (59%). The distinction between plasma and serum is clarified, with plasma being the liquid from blood with anticoagulant and serum being the result of blood that has clotted naturally. The paragraph also discusses the importance of blood collection techniques to avoid hemolysis and the effects of different tube types on blood analysis.

The second paragraph delves deeper into blood sample collection, emphasizing the importance of proper labeling to avoid mix-ups. It discusses the potential for hemolysis during sample transfer and the correct technique to avoid it. The paragraph also explains the clotting process for different blood tubes, such as red tops and tiger tops, and the necessity of refrigerating blood samples if not immediately processed. Additionally, it introduces the concept of a complete blood count (CBC) and the specific requirements for using purple top and gray top tubes in the Idexx LaserCyte machine for accurate cell counting and analysis.

This paragraph discusses the analysis of white blood cells, which are crucial for the immune system, and their normal ranges in dogs and cats. An increase in white blood cells is a red flag for potential infections. It also covers the different types of white blood cells, including neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes, and their roles in the body. The paragraph then shifts to red blood cells and their function in oxygen transport via hemoglobin, with a decrease indicating anemia. Causes of anemia and thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by low platelet count, are also explored, along with their respective health implications.

The role of platelets in blood clotting is further elaborated upon, with conditions like thrombocytopenia and its dangers highlighted. The paragraph introduces the concept of a blood smear and describes the visual appearance of different blood cells under a microscope. It explains the packed cell volume (PCV) test, which measures the percentage of red blood cells in a blood sample, and how it can indicate anemia or dehydration. The paragraph also touches on the special case of Greyhounds, which have a higher normal PCV due to their athletic build, and the impact of living at different elevations on red blood cell count.

The paragraph introduces the total protein test, which measures the protein content in the blood after a PCV test. It then explains the purpose of chemistry panels, such as the Chem 10 and Chem 17, which assess organ function through the analysis of enzymes and biochemical markers. The functions of various enzymes and proteins, like alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and globulins, are discussed, along with their implications for liver and kidney health. The paragraph also covers glucose and total protein levels, and the importance of ratios in assessing overall health.

This paragraph delves into more advanced chemistry tests, including amylase and lipase for pancreatic function, calcium and phosphate levels for bone health, cholesterol and triglycerides for lipid metabolism, and GGT for liver enzyme activity. It also discusses electrolytes like chloride, potassium, sodium, and their ratios, which are crucial for fluid balance and cellular function. The importance of sodium and potassium levels in detecting dehydration or potential heart issues is emphasized, along with the role of T4 testing for thyroid function in pets.

The paragraph introduces urinalysis as a multifaceted test that provides insights into various health aspects beyond just the urinary system. It explains the three components of a total urinalysis: specific gravity, dipstick analysis, and sediment examination. Specific gravity assesses kidney function, dipstick analysis tests for the presence of leukocytes, nitrites, proteins, and other parameters, and sediment examination reveals cellular and crystalline components. The paragraph highlights the importance of sterile urine collection for accurate results and the potential implications of findings on overall health, including liver function and diabetes.

This paragraph focuses on the sediment examination portion of urinalysis, which involves analyzing the microscopic components of centrifuged urine. It discusses the use of the SediVue digital imaging system for ease and accuracy in identifying elements like bacteria, white blood cells, red blood cells, crystals, and casts. The paragraph also covers the manual method of sediment examination, including the use of a centrifuge, pipette, and microscope, and the importance of distinguishing between different types of crystals and casts for proper diagnosis and treatment. The potential presence of artifacts from the collection process and the need for a second opinion when unsure of findings are also mentioned.

In the final paragraph, the speaker wraps up the discussion on urinalysis and blood analysis, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of these tests in diagnosing a wide range of health conditions. The importance of understanding the results and seeking second opinions when necessary is highlighted, ensuring accurate diagnoses and appropriate patient care.