Tests and investigations

Our database of tests and investigations within Pathology.

Pathology: Information for Patients

Our lab staff perform tests on tissues and fluids to help with diagnosis and treatment. Our pathology staff also provide blood tests at our hospitals and in the community.

Information for service users

This information is aimed at healthcare professionals who are using our pathology services.

Latest news

Healthcare worker access to Consultant Medical Microbiologists

Blood Transfusion

The department is open 24 hours a day all year round and below is a summary of the type of work covered by the department.

Chemical Pathology (Biochemistry)

Department of Chemical Pathology and Metabolic Medicine also known as Clinical Biochemistry

Cytopathology

The Cytopathology Department is a branch of the Pathology Laboratory based at Cheltenham General Hospital that is involved in diagnosing disease at a cellular level.

Haematology

The Haematology and Blood Transfusion department provides a comprehensive high quality screening and advisory service to Cheltenham General Hospital, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital and to GP surgeries in Gloucestershire and parts of Worcestershire.

Histopathology

Ensure that the pot is big enough for the specimen. Allow enough room for the specimen and an adequate amount of formalin to cover the specimen. The pre-filled yellow pots of formalin can be obtained from pathology stores, and the bigger white pots that are not pre-filled can be obtained by ringing the Histology Department. Please be aware when filling the white pots with formalin, this is a hazardous chemical and requires the correct personal protective equipment. If you require any COSHH or risk assessment data please contact the laboratory, or read this formalin health and safety data sheet

Immunology

The majority of our immunology tests are performed in-house, but a number are sent to specialist reference centres. A clinical immunology service is also provided for patients with primary immune deficiencies and allergies.

Microbiology

The department offers a comprehensive service for bacteriology, mycology, parasitology, serology and virology

Mortuary Services

We have the care and dignity of your loved one at the very heart of our practice. We work closely with the bereavement and chaplaincy teams to support you and your family during what can be a very difficult time.

Pathology contacts & advice service

Blood Transfusion, Department of Pathology, Cheltenham General Hospital, Cheltenham, GL53 7AN

Pathology Stores

Pathology Stores at both sites hold a wide range of disposable goods and chemicals used by each of the departments within the building. It also supplies the appropriate specimen containers, bags, forms and equipment needed for sample testing.

Sample materials

Work experience and laboratory tours

The Pathology laboratories are usaually able to offer a limited number of work experience placements each year.

Downloads and links

Pathology quality dashboard (intranet link)