In-House Pathology & Diagnostic Laboratory
At Oakleigh Central Vet, we know that fast, accurate diagnosis is essential for providing the best possible care. Our fully equipped in-house pathology laboratory allows us to perform a wide range of diagnostic tests on-site - often delivering results within minutes rather than days.
This means quicker treatment decisions and less stress for you and your pet.
Why In-House Diagnostics Matter
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Rapid results for urgent conditions
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Immediate treatment planning during your visit
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Improved accuracy through real-time sample evaluation
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Better monitoring of chronic illnesses
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Reduced need for external laboratory fees and long wait times
Advanced In-House Pathology Equipment
Our clinic uses state-of-the-art diagnostic machines designed specifically for veterinary medicine, including:
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Automated Hematology Analyser - evaluates blood cells quickly and precisely
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Biochemistry Analyser - measures organ function, electrolytes, and metabolic markers
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Additional testing - early renal failure detection (SDMA), cardiac troponin (TNL & BNP), cortisol, thyroid (T4), pancreas (CPL)
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Microscopy & Cytology Station - immediate sample review for infections, parasites, and cell abnormalities
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Urine Analysis & Sediment Evaluation System - fast, reliable urinalysis data
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Snap/ELISA Testing System - rapid detection of infectious diseases
Tests We Can Perform On-Site
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Assesses:
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Red and white blood cell levels
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Platelet count
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Detection of infection, anemia, inflammation, or clotting disorders
2. Blood Chemistry Panel
Evaluates the function of major organs:
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Kidneys
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Liver
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Pancreas
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Electrolytes
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Blood sugar
Ideal for sick patients, senior pets, and pre-anaesthetic screening.
Includes:
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SDMA (Early Renal Failure Detection) - detects kidney disfunction earlier than creatinine alone
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Thyroid & Endocrine Testing
- T4 (thyroid hormone)
- Cortisol screening
- Diabetes diagnostics (fructosamine, glucose curves)
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Cardiac testing - on-site biomarkers
- Cardiac Troponin (Tnl) - detects heart muscle injury
- Pro-BNP - evaluates strain on the heart
Useful for coughing or collapsing pets, monitoring heart disease and pre-anesthetic screening for seniors
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Pancreatic function testing
- cPL / fPL (Canine & Feline Pancreatic Lipase)
Helpful for diagnosing pancreatitis and monitoring pancreatic health.
3. Urinalysis
Provides insight into:
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Kidney and bladder health
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Urinary tract infections
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Diabetes
4. Cytology
Same-day microscopic evaluation of:
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Ear swabs
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Skin scrapings
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Lumps or masses
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Fluids (joint, abdominal, etc)
Helps diagnose infections, allergies, parasites, and cell abnormalities
5. Infectious Disease Testing (Rapid ELISA / Snap Tests)
Fast results for common conditions such as:
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Heartworm disease
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FIV/FeLV (cats)
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Parvovirus
6. Fecal Testing
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Parasite eggs
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Giardia antigen
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Worm identification
When Are In-House Tests Recommended?
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Your pet is sick and requires immediate diagnosis
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Before general anesthesia or sedation
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During emergency situations
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Monitoring chronic conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid disorders
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Routine wellness visits for early detection
Fast, Accurate Answers When It Matters Most
Our in-house pathology services enable us to diagnose and treat health issues more efficiently than ever. By combining modern technology with compassionate veterinary care, we ensure that your pet receives the highest level of medical support - right here at our clinic.
Additional Tests
We work closely with a reputable external laboratory for tests we cannot run in-house. These results are typically provided within 3 business days, however some tests can take longer. If your pet needs one of theses tests, our veterinarians will advise you on the expected wait time and phone you with your pet's results.
Get in Touch
All pathology tests need a consultation with our veterinarians. Please contact us if you would like to book your pet in for further instructions.
