Manual Chemistry

The Manual Chemistry section is responsible for performing specialist tests that require a significant amount of manual work and technical expertise. These investigations often involve complex preparation and interpretation, meaning turnaround times are typically longer than for routine automated analyses.

Examples of tests performed include:

•    Xanthochromia analysis
•    Faecal calprotectin
•    Faecal elastase
•    Sweat chloride analysis
•    Urine porphyrin screening
•    Faecal Immunochemical Testing (FIT)
•    Osmolality (osmo) testing
•    Trace element analysis — including zinc, ACE, copper, and bile acids
•    Investigations relating to Sudden Unexpected Deaths in Infancy (SUDIs)

The Manual Chemistry service operates within the Biochemistry Department across all NMCPS locations — Leighton Hospital, County Hospital, Royal Stoke University Hospital, and Macclesfield Hospital.

Referred Work

In addition to in-house testing, the Manual Chemistry section at Royal Stoke University Hospital is responsible for the management and dispatch of referred work to specialist external laboratories. This includes:
•    Ensuring samples are packaged and transported in compliance with safety and regulatory standards
•    Selecting appropriate referral laboratories based on the specific clinical investigation required
•    Tracking sample progress and ensuring timely return of results
•    Liaising with clinical teams to provide updates and resolve any issues with referred analyses

This referral process ensures high-quality handling of specialist samples, maintains traceability, and supports clinicians in accessing a wider range of diagnostic tests not available within the local laboratory network.