Serology Testing

Serology Testing

Sample Collection & Shipping Guidelines

Opti-Spot® Sample Collection

1. Materials required 
   • Opti-Spot card (available from IDEXX BioAnalytics for no charge)
   • Lancet or needle
2.  Sample labeling
   • Label one Opti-Spot card with a unique identification number for each sample strip.
3. Opti-Spot cards and strips
   • The Opti-Spot cards are constructed with 5 individual strips separated by perforations. The strips are easily separated along the perforation lines for individual use.
   • On each strip, a 1.0 cm2 circle is printed on the face of the Opti-Spot membrane as a guide. It is not necessary that the blood spot be centered within the circle.
4. Opti-Spot sample collection
   • Ante-mortem blood samples may be obtained by lancing the lateral saphenous, facial or the temporal vein. Touch the Opti-Spot membrane to blood drop as it forms on the surface of the skin.
   • If the blood sample is taken by cardiocentesis, quickly dispense one drop of whole blood onto the Opti-Spot strip.
   • The blood spot should be of sufficient size (approximately 1 cm2) to nearly fill the printed circle and be of sufficient volume to saturate the membrane. The blood spot will appear similar on both sides of the membrane.
   • Allow the blood spot to dry for a minimum of one hour.
   • Once dried, fold the protective upper tab over the blood spot and tuck under the lower tab.
5. Sample Shipment
   • It is important that the Opti-Spot strip is protected from moisture. Once dry, place Opti-Spot samples in a water-tight plastic bag containing the provided silica gel desiccant pack, and ship samples in a standard overnight envelope.