Equipment & Methods
Technology is a tool. Method and expert interpretation give a result its value.
Laboratory diagnostics does not depend solely on the instrument on which the analysis was performed. Result quality begins with an appropriate sample, continues with a controlled analytical process and concludes with evaluation of the result in the appropriate clinical context.
At VetPro laboratory, we combine automated analytical platforms with microscopic, microbiological, immunological and molecular methods. The choice of method depends on sample type, animal species and the diagnostic question.
Analytical platforms
Siemens ADVIA 2120
Automated haematology system for complete blood count, differential leucocyte count, reticulocyte enumeration and detailed assessment of erythrocyte and platelet parameters. Analysis of different cell populations is based on a combination of optical measurements and cytochemical reactions. Analyser results are supplemented by microscopic blood smear review when indicated.
Beckman Coulter AU480
Automated clinical biochemistry platform enabling photometric, turbidimetric and electrolytic analyses from serum, plasma and other appropriate samples. Used for routine and extended biochemical profiles, individual parameters and monitoring of various organ system functions.
Siemens IMMULITE 2000
Automated chemiluminescent immunoassay platform for determining hormones and other analytes for which this methodology is appropriate. Endocrinological results are evaluated together with the patient species, clinical data and, where applicable, the functional test protocol.
TOSOH AIA-CL300
Automated immunoassay platform based on CLEIA technology — chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay. Expands the range of endocrinological and immunological analyses available in the laboratory and enables the use of small sample volumes for appropriate tests.
DAS APE Elite
Automated ELISA processor for performing immunological tests on microtiter plates. Used for various serological testing, including detection of specific antibodies or antigens where EIA/ELISA is the designated test method.
bioMérieux VITEK 2 Compact
Automated system for identification of microorganisms and testing of their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents. Identification and antimicrobial susceptibility results are evaluated together with the sample type, collection site, isolated microorganism and clinical significance of the finding.
UriSed
Automated analysis of urinary sediment elements as part of a complete urinalysis. The sediment finding is evaluated together with the physicochemical characteristics of the sample, specific gravity and clinical data, with additional microscopic examination when required.
Methods that require more than automation
Not all laboratory information is the result of an analyser. A significant part of diagnostics at VetPro laboratory is based on direct assessment of the sample and selection of the appropriate method.
Microscopy
Examination of blood smears, cytological preparations, urinary sediment, parasitological preparations and microbiological stains enables direct assessment of cells, microorganisms and other structures that automated systems cannot always reliably characterise.
Cytology
Cytological diagnostics is based on morphological evaluation of cell populations in aspirates, imprints, body fluids and other samples, with interpretation in the clinical context of the patient.
Clinical Microbiology
Microbiological testing includes cultivation, assessment of growth, identification of isolates and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Automated systems form part of the process, but final interpretation also depends on the origin and quality of the sample.
Molecular Diagnostics
PCR methods are used for direct detection of nucleic acids of infectious agents. Sample selection and timing of collection are equally important as the analytical method itself.
Parasitology
Direct microscopy, flotation, sedimentation, McMaster and Baermann methods are used depending on the type of parasite and the diagnostic question.
From sample to result
APL LIMS VetPro
The laboratory information system connects sample receipt, patient identification, the analytical process, result validation and report issuance. Veterinarians can access sample status, results and laboratory reports via the VetPro portal.
The LIMS is an important part of sample traceability throughout the laboratory process — from receipt to result issuance.
Quality and method validation
Equipment is regularly maintained and monitored, and analytical methods are tracked through defined internal quality control, external quality control and inter-laboratory comparison procedures.
Before a method is introduced into routine use, its analytical characteristics and suitability for the intended purpose are evaluated, including applicability to veterinary samples where required.
VetPro is accredited to the standard SRPS ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for the methods listed in the current scope of accreditation. Accreditation applies exclusively to the methods covered by that document. For us, quality control is not a final check on results, but part of the entire laboratory process.
A result is not just a number.
Automation enables precise and reproducible measurement. Diagnostic value is given to a result by an appropriate sample, a verified method, quality control and correct interpretation.
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