Toxicology FAQS

Toxicology cases can be complex, and we understand how important it is to get clear and confident answers when time and patient safety are critical. This dedicated FAQ section brings together the most common questions we receive about our toxicology services, including sample requirements, turnaround times, reporting, and access to specialist advice. Whether you are managing a suspected poisoning or simply looking to understand the process better, you will find straightforward guidance and support here.

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Sample Submitting

What is the minimum amount of sample required for a general toxicology screening?

For general toxicology screening (e.g. TXES – Extensive General Screen or TXESOC – Extensive General Screen + Organic Compound) we recommend at least one or any combination of the following*:

 

  • 2mL of whole blood
  • 10mL of urine
  • 5mL stomach contents
  • 5g of liver.
  • 5g of bait/suspected poison/residue

 

The method involves extraction and concentration of analytes, so more sample gives more sensitivity. Quantities below these amounts can be tested but the sensitivity will be reduced.

 

*Other sample types may be considered at our discretion

Is only one sample type tested or are they pooled?

For general toxicology testing the samples are pooled unless you request otherwise. If you require each site to be tested separately they will be charged and run separately. For more specific panels, such as anticoagulants or mycotoxins, for example, the most appropriate sample type will be tested.

Can I submit samples stored in formal saline?

No, samples stored in formal saline are not suitable for toxicology testing. Please submit fresh tissues only.

I’ve frozen my samples, will they still be ok to test?

Freezing samples for toxicology testing is an appropriate way to store them prior to shipping but do avoid repeated freeze-thawing. Please note that the K1 epoxide test requires separated serum or heparin plasma, this should be separated before freezing.

How should we store our samples before shipping to you?

For short periods refrigeration is adequate but for longer periods, i.e., >2 days, freezing is advised. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles where possible and separate plasma/serum beforehand for tests that require it (e.g. vitamin K1 epoxide).

Do I need to include a clinical history?

Yes please, clinical history is very useful to us and will help you get the best result.

I’m a private customer, may I send you samples directly?

We recommend submitting samples through your preferred veterinary practice as we do not routinely accept samples from individuals.

How long after symptoms were observed may I collect samples for testing?

This depends on factors such as how fast the drug/poison is metabolised and the quantity that was taken/ingested. Please consult the relevant literature regarding the suspected agent(s) and their metabolic rate. Generally speaking, we would not recommend submitting samples collected more than 48 hours after a suspected poisoning with an exception being when baits or residues are to be examined.

Testing

What compounds are covered on your anticoagulant rodenticides screen (TXCOAG -Anticoagulants) and what samples do you need?

Our anticoagulant rodenticides panel includes Brodifacoum, Bromadiolone, Chlorphacinone, Dicoumarol, Difenacoum, Difethialone, Diphacinone, and Warfarin. This test is best performed on liver tissue or heparin/citrate/EDTA wholeblood. At least 3 mL of blood or 3g of liver tissue is recommended for best results.

Can you offer quantification of positives?

Outside of specific panels that include quantified results we generally do not offer quantification. Quantified results are provided for the following only: TXCOAG – Anticoagulants, TXHM – Heavy Metals, TXK1EP – Vitamin K1, K1 epoxide.

Can you test for blue-green algae toxins?

Not currently. We recommend contacting your local water authority for advice.

Do you test for cyanide?

We do not currently test for cyanide.

What is covered in your Extensive Toxicology Screens?

Both panels use gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry (GC/MS) to test samples against a library of more than 50,000  compounds which includes therapeutic drugs, toxins, metabolites and other volatile organic substances. The TXES screen is rapid and cost-effective whilst the TXESOC screen is slower but more exhaustive and covers a broad range of pesticides and industrial chemicals.

What is the best sample type to test for slug pellets i.e., metaldehyde?

The best sample for metaldehyde is stomach contents or a portion of the suspected bait. Blood and urine can give unreliable results for this compound.

Can you test for nightshade (Atropa belladonna)?

Not currently.

Results

What are your turnaround times?

3 – 5 days*:
TXES – Extensive General Screen
TXESEG – Extensive General Screen + Ethylene Glycol
TXEG – Ethylene Glycol
TXMTHX – Methylxanthines (Theobromine, Caffeine and Dimethylxanthine)
TXSA – Tremorgenic Mycotoxin Marker
TXXYL – Xylitol

5 – 7 days:
TXDOA – Drugs of Abuse

10 – 14 days:
TXESOC – Extensive General Screen + Organic Compounds
TXCOAG – Anti-coagulation (Warfarin; Coumarins)
TXCONP – Convulsant Panel
TXHM – Heavy Metals
TXK1EP – Vitamin K1/ K1 Epoxide

14 – 21 days:
TXMYCP – Mycotoxin Panel

 

*Can be upgraded to next working day results for an additional fee.