Update 07.07.25: The analyser failure has been fixed and testing has resumed. The department will be working extended hours to clear the backlog of samples and Pathlab expect testing to be back to normal by the end of the week.
Pathlab has had an equipment failure, compounded by a delayed replacement device delivery impacting the following tests: Anti-TPO antibodies, CMV serology, EBV serology, Hepatitis B serology, Hepatitis A serology, Hepatitis C antibody, HIV serology, Rubella IgG, Syphilis screen and Toxoplasma serology. Full details below.
Please keep sending in the tests but expect an additional 1-2 weeks delay in reporting.
If you have samples with any of the below tests pending, and the results are required urgently, please email immunology@pathlab.co.nz with the patient NHI, sample date, and which tests are urgent. Pathlab can arrange for these to be tested at Waikato Hospital or prioritise them when processing the backlog after the analyser is fixed.
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Due to an unexpected analyser failure on Monday, followed by a delay in the shipment of required parts from Sydney due to cancelled freight flights, the following tests are currently unable to be processed at Pathlab.
HIV screen and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) are still available at one of their other laboratories and will be automatically tested for needlestick /BBFE requests only.
Pathlab will provide an update with the expected resumption of service once they have confirmation that freight is able to leave Sydney. The repair itself is anticipated to be straightforward, so at this stage it could be Friday at the earliest, otherwise early next week.
Once Pathlab is back on-line, they will work to catch up on the backlogged samples as quickly as possible.
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