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Fidan Veteriner Kliniği — Fidan Veterinary Clinic LogoFidan Veterinary ClinicGebze Veterinary Clinic

Laboratory and Imaging

Veterinary Laboratory and Imaging: A Protocol Built for Diagnostic Accuracy

Medically reviewed by: Adem Fidan, DVM — Chief Veterinarian, Fidan Veterinary Clinic

At Fidan Veterinary Clinic, complete blood counts, serum biochemistry, urinalysis and rapid antigen tests are run in-house, while digital radiography and abdominal ultrasound are completed during the same visit. Results are interpreted alongside physical examination findings, with external laboratory confirmation when needed. Fasting and preparation instructions are provided in writing before imaging.

Fidan Veterinary Clinic — Laboratory and Imaging department

In-House Laboratory and Result Flow

At our in-house laboratory in Tatlıkuyu, Gebze (serving Darıca, Çayırova, Dilovası and Kocaeli), a complete blood count guides the assessment of anaemia, infection and clotting disorders through red cell, white cell and platelet values. The biochemistry panel covers liver enzymes, renal parameters, glucose, protein and electrolytes, and is decisive when calculating treatment doses.

Urinalysis supports renal and urinary tract assessment as well as diabetes monitoring; a first morning sample is preferred and is read together with sediment microscopy. Rapid antigen tests such as parvovirus or FeLV / FIV allow isolation and treatment to start the same day.

  • CBC and biochemistry results reviewed during the same visit
  • External laboratory confirmation for equivocal cases
  • Trend comparison against previous results in chronic patients

Preparation Standards for Radiography and Ultrasound

Plain radiography is first-line for bone, joint and thoracic assessment, with a four-view thoracic series as standard. Abdominal ultrasound depends on tissue contrast, so an 8 to 12 hour fast and a full bladder where possible markedly improve image quality.

Related Clinical Procedures & Health Guides

Diagnostic method, clinical purpose and patient preparation
MethodClinical PurposePatient PreparationTurnaround
Complete blood count (CBC)Anaemia, infection, inflammation monitoring8 hour fast recommendedSame visit
Serum biochemistryLiver, kidney, glucose, electrolytes8 – 12 hour fastSame visit
UrinalysisRenal, urinary tract, diabetesFirst morning sample preferredSame visit
Plain radiographyBone, joint, thoraxNo anaesthesia requiredSame visit
Abdominal ultrasoundOrgan parenchyma, effusion, mass8 – 12 hour fastSame visit
Rapid antigen testParvovirus, FeLV / FIV screeningNo extra preparation15 minutes

Clinical Pathway

  1. The examination defines the clinical question and the priority test list.
  2. Sample collection and patient preparation for imaging are completed.
  3. Results are combined with physical examination findings by the veterinarian.
  4. Diagnosis, treatment plan and recheck schedule are explained to the owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fasting required for an ultrasound?

Yes. Because stomach and intestinal gas reduce image quality, an 8 to 12 hour fast is usually recommended. Water is not restricted, and a full bladder makes the assessment easier.

Does radiography harm the animal?

Plain radiography needs no anaesthesia and is a safe examination at diagnostic doses. Protective equipment for staff and correct patient positioning prevent unnecessary repeat exposures.

How often will repeat blood work be needed?

That depends on disease stage and response to treatment. Chronic cases are monitored at intervals between two and twelve weeks, with each result compared against the previous trend.

The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a physical examination.