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16. May 2012
Claire CromptonClaire Crompton BVSc, MRCVS Claire qualified from Liverpool University in 1988 with a BVSc (Hons). She spent 8 years primarily in small animal practice in the north of England. Her particular interests were soft tissue, reconstructive surgery and in-house diagnostics including urinalysis, infectious disease investigation and parasitic conditions. Claire started as a clinical pathologist at [...] -
9. May 2012
Laboratory Units – Conversion FactorsConversion Table (SI units/Traditional units) -
3. May 2012
Haematology Images -
24. April 2012
Contact FormView Larger Map -
24. April 2012
Avian Haematology Photographs -
23. April 2012
Frequently Asked Questions -
23. April 2012
Veterinary ResourcesCTDS downloads – http://ctdslab.co.uk/veterinary-resources/downloads/ Frequently asked questions – http://ctdslab.co.uk/veterinary-resources/frequently-asked-questions/ Add a test online – http://ctdslab.co.uk/veterinary-resources/add-additional-tests-to-samples/ External links: A great clinical pathology resource for vets and nurses -
23. April 2012
Add Test Online -
21. April 2012
Equine Pregnancy Diagnosis and ReproductionEquine pregnancy diagnosis. Dependant on the time of blood sampling post-covering there are two tests available to confirm successful equine matings: Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin (PMSG) – also know as Equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) PMSG provides the earliest indication of pregnancy from 40 days post covering. PMSG is a protein produced by the endometrial [...] -
21. April 2012
Equine Services -
19. April 2012
Marta Dell’OrcoMarta Dell’Orco DVM, MRCVS CTDS Resident in Veterinary Clinical Pathology Marta graduated in Veterinary Medicine at Milan university in 2002, she then worked for 6 years in a first and second opinion small animal hospital in Italy where her main duties involved emergency medicine, internal medicine and clinical pathology. During these years she progressively became [...] -
17. April 2012 - Interesting cases
A case of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in a 4 year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.A case of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in a 4 year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The dog had presented with recurrent dyspnoea and tachypnoea and showed a generalized interstitial pattern on radiographs. A few small round granular structures are found in a cytospin preparation from a BAL, consistent with Pneumocystis Carinii. This may [...] -
17. April 2012
Fluid Flow CytometryFlow cytometry is the measurement of characteristics of single cells suspended in a flowing saline stream. Many scientific procedures involve obtaining measurements as an average values for the whole population, however key to flow cytometry is the ability to take measurements separately on each particle within the suspension in turn. Several parameters in turn can be [...] -
17. April 2012 - Interesting cases
Canine Multicentric Lymphoma – Atypical LymphocytesAtypical lymphocytes found in the circulating blood from a 8 year old, female dachshund with multicentric lymphoma. Peripheral blood lymphocytes, described as intermediate size atypical cells with round to slightly indented nuclear margins, moderately granular chromatin patterns, single large or occasionally multiple smaller nucleoli and small amounts of basophilic cytoplasm often with perinuclear pale zones. [...] -
11. April 2012
Exotic Diagnostic Laboratory Services (formerly EVDS)Our Exotics Service Laboratory testing in pet exotic, small mammal and zoological species can provide invaluable diagnostic information but poses unique challenges in relation to sample acquisition and sample handling, analysis and interpretation. CTDS exotics has an international reputation in this area and provides laboratory services to first and second opinion practices, universities, research and [...] -
11. April 2012
HaematologyHaematology is the study of blood disease and diseases of the blood forming organs. Many people say that haematology is more of an art than a science and this is particularly appropriate when one considers the morphological assessment of red cells, white cells Haematology and platelets which is a critical part of a haematological assessment. [...] -
10. April 2012
CEMO and EVA TestingContagious Equine Metritis (CEMO) is a highly contagious venereal disease caused by Taylorella equigenitalis. Klebsiella Pneumoniae andPsuedomonas Aeruginosa can also cause veneral disease and cause loss of fertility in the mare. The disease is resident in mares and transmitted by stallions with infection being spread from the stallion/teaser to mare or from mare to stallion/teaser during mating or teasing. The [...] -
5. April 2012
Cardiac TestsTests For Cardiac Function and Damage in Cats, Dogs and Horses ProBNP ProBNP is a new test of ventricular dilatation which is assayed on serum and is now suitable as an add-on test to profile submissions. Naturetic peptides are released in response to expanded extracellular fluid volume and are antagonistic to the actions of the [...] -
5. April 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Foal IgG testingFailure of passive transfer of immunity leaves foals at risk of septicaemia. CTDS offers a same day rapid turnaround test to assess the actual concentration of IgG and adequacy of colostrum absorption. In foals with adequate levels of colostrum absorption, IgG levels would be expected to be more than 8 g/l at 24 hours of [...] -
4. April 2012
Allergy TestingSerological testing for allergy in dogs, cats and horses has made huge progress in the last ten years following the production of monoclonal antibodies against IgE in dogs and later cats. The diagnostic sensitivity of the best serum tests for atopy is now considered to be at least comparable with intradermal skin tests and these [...] -
3. April 2012 - Please ask us a question
Please ask us a question on any lab related topicPlease post a question here on any lab related topic relating to companion, exotic or equines and we’d be happy to discuss or contact us here http://ctdslab.co.uk/contact/ -
29. March 2012 - Interesting cases
Microfilaria in yellow headed amazon parrot bloodInteresting but incidental finding, Microfilaria are microscopic, immature forms of filarial roundworms (related to heart worms in dogs) that are found in plasma and blood from many parrot species. -
28. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Feline Liver and Kidney Pathology PresentationFeline Liver and Kidney Presentation Nick Carmichael BVM&S, BSc VetSci(Hons), DVCS, FRCPath, MRCVS, Diplomate ECVCP. RCVS Recognised Specialist in Clinical Pathology. -
28. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Beyond Pre Anaesthetic TestingBeyond Pre-Anaesthetic Testing Presentation Nick Carmichael BVM&S, BSc VetSci(Hons), DVCS, FRCPath, MRCVS, Diplomate ECVCP. RCVS Recognised Specialist in Clinical Pathology. -
27. March 2012
Ramon MalupingRamon P. Maluping, DVM, MS, MSc (Cantab), FIBMS, MSB Ramon has more than 12 years experience in veterinary diagnostic microbiology and parasitology. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of the Philippines in 1998. After more than a year of mixed animal practice, he joined the University of the Philippines to [...] -
26. March 2012
Service list -
26. March 2012 - Interesting cases
Spinal haemorrhage associated with factor VII deficiency in a young BeagleSpinal haemorrhage associated with factor VII deficiency in a young Beagle L. Motta*(1), U. M. Altay(1), N. Carmichael(2), G. C. Skerritt(1) EJCAP – Vol. 21 – Issue 1 April 2011 -
26. March 2012
PublicationsSpinal haemorrhage associated with factor VII deficiency in a young Beagle EJCAP – Vol. 21 – Issue 1 April 2011 L. Motta*(1), U. M. Altay(1), N. Carmichael(2), G. C. Skerritt(1) -
22. March 2012
Laura HaighLaura Haigh Laura joined CTDS in 2006 and is our Leading Laboratory Scientist and supervisor within biochemistry and immunology. Laura’s hobbies include craft making, reading fiction in particular crime stories. -
22. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Easter OpeningBank Holiday Laboratory Opening Hours - April/May/June Laboratory Opening Times 2012 Thursday 5th April 8.30-18:00 Friday 6th April Good Friday Closed Saturday 7th April Easter Sat 8.30-14:00 Monday 9th April Easter Mon Closed Tuesday 10th April onwards Normal service 8.30-18.00 Friday 4th May 8.30-18.00 Saturday 5th May 8.30-14.00 Monday 7th May Closed Tuesday [...] -
22. March 2012
Acute Phase ProteinsAcute Phase Proteins This term covers a range of proteins synthesised by the liver which increase in concentration in blood in response to the presence of the acute inflammation. The exact glycoproteins which are most sensitive for inflammation varies between species. For dogs C reactive protein (CRP) is commonly used, in cats alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) [...] -
22. March 2012
HistopathologyHistology samples should be submitted in 10% formalin – in secure screw topped pots. Pre filled pots are available from CTDS in 2 sizes, regular (pack of 10 containing 20ml of formalin) and large (pack of 5 containing 50ml formalin). Alternatively if you wish to prepare your own formalin pots concentrated formaldehyde (usually 40-50%), available [...] -
22. March 2012
General Lab Photos -
21. March 2012
Grace RobertsGrace Roberts Grace works as medical laboratory assistant primarily within biochemistry, immunology, endocrinology and haematology as a work placement student during her 3rd year. Grace is currently studying microbiology with virology (BSc Hons) at Leeds University. Grace is the adoptive parent of Maisie a 9 month old Labradoodle. Grace is a keen guitar player and [...] -
21. March 2012
Jemma KleinJemma Klein – BSc (Hons) Biotechnology from Leeds University. Jemma joined CTDS in 2009 as an undergraduate. Jemma works as a medical laboratory officer within immunology, endocrinology, haematology and is currently undergoing training in blood smear examinations. Jemma is doing a part time fashion course and enjoys painting, dressmaking and is the labs resident film buff [...] -
21. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Canine Prostatic Specific Esterase (CPSE)- for canine benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)Canine Prostatic Specific Esterase (CPSE)- for canine benign prostatic hyperplasia CTDS is one of only three labs in the UK to offer a new assay for canine prostate-specific arginine esterase (CPSE) as an aid to the diagnosis of prostatic disease. CPSE is a major protein secreted by prostatic epithelial cells under the control of androgens. [...] -
21. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Progesterone Testing To Predict Canine OvulationProgesterone Testing Natural matings often require no intervention as fresh semen remains viable for a number of days and multiple matings can maximise the contact time between fertile ova and viable sperm. Circumstances are often not typical or ideal and in these situations measurement of progesterone can be helpful to try and identify the optimal [...] -
21. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Blood Smears For HaematologyBlood Smear Evaluation Often the examination of a peripheral blood smear is the single most useful procedure in haematology which is unfortunately often overlooked in practice since it is either considered unnecessary or beyond the skills of the practitioner. The sole reliance on the output of in-clinic haematology analysers can often be misleading, although most [...] -
21. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Direct Debit PaymentsDirect Debit Payments DON’T MISS OUT ON YOUR 2% DISCOUNT!! We are pleased to be able to offer a direct debit payment system. BENEFITS OF DIRECT DEBIT • Quick, simple and convenient • No more administration time and expense • No more chase calls • No more bank or postal [...] -
21. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
FructosamineFructosamine testing in cats and dogs Fructosamines are stable complexes of carbohydrates and proteins that are produced by an irreversible, nonenzymatic glycosylation of serum proteins. Fructosamine (glycated serum protein) measurements are useful in diagnosing and monitoring diabetes mellitus in both cats and dogs. The test is highly sensitive and can be used to distinguish non-diabetic [...] -
21. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Lipaemia in blood, serum and plasma samplesClouding the issue with lipaemic samples Lipaemia is the term used to describe the turbidity or cloudiness noted in serum or plasma samples arising as a result of increased lipid presence. Most commonly lipaemia is a result of taking an unfasted sample. It is important to note on the request form if the sample [...] -
21. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Easter Opening HoursEaster Laboratory Opening Hours – 2012 Thursday 5th April 2012 8.30-18:00 Friday 6th April Good Friday Closed Saturday 7th April Easter Sat 8.30-14:00 Monday 9th April Easter Mon Closed Tuesday 10th April onwards Normal opening times Telephone support out of hours – 07881711924 -
20. March 2012
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring -
20. March 2012
Andy Torrance Andrew Torrance MA, Vet MB, PhD, MRCVS, Diplomate ACVIM, Diplomate AVCP, RCVS recognised specialist in clinical pathology Andy trained at Cambridge University, UK and Michigan State University, USA. He obtained a doctorate from the University of London in veterinary physiology. He holds two post graduate diplomas that distinguish him as a specialist in Veterinary [...] -
20. March 2012
Nick CarmichaelNick Carmichael BVM&S, BSc VetSci(Hons), Diploma VCS(Syd), Diploma RC Path, Diplomate ECVCP, MRCVS RCVS recognised specialist in clinical pathology Nick graduated from Edinburgh in 1980 with an Honours degree in Pathological Sciences and in 1982 as a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery. After a year with the PDSA in London, he completed a Diploma [...] -
20. March 2012 - Interesting cases
Avian Liver DiseaseAvian liver disease Liver disease can occur in pet psittacine birds of all species and ages. Infectious causes are most common in young birds but in older birds degenerative disease is a more common cause. Clinical signs can be non specific and depend on the severity of the disease – these can range from anorexia, [...] -
19. March 2012
CTDS / TDDS GroupThe CTDS/TDDS partnership: CTDS (Carmichael Torrance Diagnostic Services) Ltd, based in Garforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, was formed in 2004 as a veterinary diagnostic laboratory with the purpose of providing high quality laboratory results and interpretations with client care and case continuity underpinning its objectives. We believe that our strength in the veterinary diagnostic market [...] -
19. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Collecting Good Quality Skin And Hair SamplesQuality Skin and Hair Samples 1. Sample Collection The following information regarding sampling techniques enables us to give you the most accurate result for animals with skin, parasite and abscess conditions. a. Skin scrapes A sterile scalpel blade should be scraped across the skin until oozing of the wound occurs. The blade should be held [...] -
19. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Collecting And Storing Urine SamplesGood quality urine samples 1. Sample Collection and Preparation Catheterisation – animals may require sedation prior to catheterisation although there is minimal risk of contamination using this technique. The catheter is slowly passed up the urethra and gently into the bladder and urine is collected aseptically as it flows out of the catheter into a [...] -
19. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Good Serum Sampling TechniquesSerum samples 1. Sample collection. A standardised approach to sampling and laboratory testing is essential when comparing patient results collected at different occasions and appropriate sampling techniques can minimise both costs and patient discomfort by reducing the need for repeat tests. In the dog and cat blood is frequently collected from either the jugular or [...] -
19. March 2012 - Interesting cases
Feline Cystic Thyroid AdenocarcinomaHistory: 13year old DSH, presents with a 2-3 month history of coughing, increased respiratory effort and a large palpable throat mass. Aspiration yielded 80 ml of blood tinged fluid. T4 is increased ( 84 nmol/l), consistent with mild hyperthyroidism. Lab Abnormalities: Increased T4 , increased ALP and ALT. Cytology of the fluid reveals a moderate [...] -
19. March 2012 - Interesting cases
Feline iron deficiencyHistory : This 13 month old cat presented with pale mucous membranes, an increased heart rate and general malaise. Flea infestation was apparent. Lab abnormalities included: Reduced PCV of 22, lowered haemoglobin of 6.1, reduced red cell count, redcued MCV and abnormal blood film morphology as above. Diagnosis: Iron Deficiency Anaemia In iron deficiency, red [...] -
19. March 2012 - Interesting cases
Canine Leishmania – LeishmaniasisEndemic diseases of continental Europe are being seen with increasing frequency in the UK as animals travel more widely. We have been dealing with an adopted Spanish dog, Abi who has been resident in the UK for some months now. She presented with ulcerating skin lesions, weight loss, lethargy and shifting lameness and joint swelling, [...] -
19. March 2012
CytologyVeterinary cytology provides a quick, inexpensive and relatively non-evasive way to evaluate the cells in body fluids, skin masses and increasingly (in conjunction with ultrasonography) internal organs. Inflammation, infection and neoplasia can often all be identified without the need for biopsy and anaesthesia. In our experience we find that often cytology is a much underutilised [...] -
15. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Ionised CalciumHow do I send samples for ionised calcium -
15. March 2012 - Frequently Asked Questions
Bile Acid Stimulation Tests / ACTH -
14. March 2012
Profile ListFor a complete list of the tests within our profiles and screens please download here. Download complete list of tests in profiles -
14. March 2012
NewsLatest news here: - 2 May 2012 May Day opening hours – 7th May 2012 The laboratory is open as normal this week and next with the exception of Monday 7th May 2012 when we will be closed. In the event of emergency please contact us on 07881 711924. -1 May 2012 Great [...] -
14. March 2012
Find usCarmichael Torrance Diagnostic Laboratories is situated in Garforth, near Leeds in West Yorkshire. View Larger Map The lab is open Monday to Friday from 08:45 until 17:30 and Saturdays from 08:45 until 12:00 – although our staff are often there outside these hours and always available on the emergency contact number below. Please contact us [...] -
14. March 2012
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14. March 2012
ContactView Larger Map -
14. March 2012
Photos -
14. March 2012
Downloads -
14. March 2012
Test listPlease use this table to search for the test code you require – please contact us if there are any tests that you cannot find and we will try to source them for you. Please refer to current pricelist for prices ex VAT. -
14. March 2012
ImmunotherapyImmunotherapy. We can also provide specially formulated immunotherapy regimes, devised from list of allergens to which the animal is sensitised. In order to formulate a regime we must receive a written prescription from a registered veterinary surgeon. VMD regulations also state that veterinary practices must complete a SIC form which again can be downloaded below or [...] -
14. March 2012
Services -
14. March 2012
What we doCTDS provides a full and wide range of veterinary diagnostic laboratory tests that include haematology, biochemistry, allergy testing, cytology, endocrinology, histopathology, virology, microbiology, PCR testing and much more for canine, feline, rabbits, small mammals, avians, exotics and horses. Our veterinary laboratory staff have many years experience in veterinary diagnostic testing and although the company is [...] -
14. March 2012
StaffVETERINARY DIRECTOR Nick Carmichael BVM&S, BSc VetSci(Hons), DVCS, FRCPath, MRCVS, Diplomate ECVCP. RCVS Recognised Specialist in Clinical Pathology. HEAD OF LABORATORY SERVICES Karen Scott BSc, AIBMS CLINICAL PATHOLOGISTS Nick Carmichael BVM&S, BSc VetSci(Hons), DVCS, FRCPath, MRCVS, Diplomate ECVCP. RCVS Recognised Specialist in Clinical Pathology. Claire Crompton BVSc, MRVCS Senior Clinical Pathologist Francesca Pitorri DVM, MRCVS CTDS Resident [...] -
14. March 2012
QualityEvery one of our pathology procedures undergo stringent quality checks and the use of standard operating procedures ensure consistency in our methods and results. CTDS is fully approved by the laboratory standards committee of the European College of Veterinary Clinical Pathology as a training laboratory. The lab is directly supervised by a RCVS Recognised Specialist [...] -
14. March 2012
Our aimsOur goal is to offer a friendly, personalised laboratory service that provides you with analytical and service quality, case continuity, meticulous care and full pathology support. Each and every case we deal with is reported and interpreted based on the history you give us we don’t use coded, affectionately known as canned, comments. Our database [...] -
14. March 2012
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