Test Category: Specialist BiochemistryToxicology
Investigation Name:Synthetic Cannabinoids
Alias or Abbreviation:NOIDS
Accreditation:UKAS Accredited ISO15189:2022, on scope
Intro:
Synthetic cannabinoids (SCRAs) are compounds that mimic the effects of the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), acting on the same cannabinoid receptors in the brain, however they can be much more potent. SCRAs are typically sold in the form of herbal material that is smoked together with loose tobacco; however they may also be present in other forms such as vapes.Whilst SCRA compounds mimic the effects of THC, structurally they are very different and so cannot be detected using the same screening methods. The toxicology laboratory screens for 6 of the most common synthetic cannabinoids using LC-MS/MS. Because novel SCRA compounds are frequently being developed, a negative screen does not exclude SCRA use.
Pathology Laboratory:Toxicology Laboratory
Requestable Seperately?Yes
Minimum Sample Volume:A minimum of 1mL EDTA whole blood or 2mL urine.
Expected Turnaround Time:4 working days from receipt of sample. Urgent available upon request
Test Code:NOIS/NOIU
Sample Type:
A minimum of 1mL of EDTA whole blood/plasma or 2mL of urine collected into a plain (white top) container.Referred to Another Laboratory?No
Storage Requirements:EDTA whole blood should be separated and stored frozen at -20oC prior to sending.
Urine should be refrigerated and transported at ambient temperature using the normal postal system.
Posting Address / Requirements:Sandwell Health Campus
Pathology Department
Specialist Chemistry
Lyndon
B71 4HJ
NPEX / PDF Reporting Available: NPEX and PDF reporting available.
EQA Scheme:EQA for Synthetic Cannabinoids is provided by LGC Scheme.
Further information:
Lead Contact Details:Dr Loretta Ford Consultant Clinical Scientist, Toxicology 0121 507 6026Dr Loretta Ford Consultant Clinical Scientist, Toxicology 0121 507 6026
Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.bcpsspecialistchemistryenquiries@nhs.net
Site Sample Tested:City Health Campus
Cost:Please email: bcpspathology.info@nhs.net for further details
Contact Number:0121 507 4138
