Laboratory Medicine

Overview

The Department of Laboratory Medicine at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, is a world-class diagnostic centre, providing services for diagnostic and therapeutic evaluation, most often involving blood tests. The department also comprises histochemical analysis and blood storage for transfusions.

Our Vision

The Department of Laboratory Medicine strives to meet or exceed the expectations of clinicians with high-quality and cost-effective pathology and laboratory services that improve and complement the doctor’s ability to care for patients.

About Us
Training and Education
Accreditations & Certificates
Our Technology

The Department of Laboratory Medicine at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital offers clinical excellence by providing accurate results within a short turn-around time. The laboratory medicine team comprises highly experienced pathologist, microbiologist, histopathologist, geneticists, medical technologists, medical technicians, histotechnologists, cytology technologists, pathologist's assistants, phlebotomists, lab assistants, genetic counsellors, and other specialists working collaboratively.

The interaction between the team of laboratory doctors and ordering physicians facilitates accurate diagnosis and effective treatment approaches. Pathologists can request additional clinical information and clarify any questions from the ordering physicians.

All processes and services are continually refined to enhance patient care. The efficiency of automation and Lean principles is combined to simplify and streamline processes.

The Department of Laboratory Medicine also include Pathology & Microbiology Diplomate of National Board (DNB) residency programs and Clinical Laboratory Medicine internships.

The Department of Laboratory Medicine at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre is Certified (Certificate Number: MC-3469) by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) in accordance with standard International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 15189:2012.

Laboratory quality is measured not only by accreditation and licensure but also by the efficiency with which laboratory results are interpreted and applied to a patient’s clinical situation. Quality and standardization programs are designed to exceed the high levels of testing proficiency and standardization required by auditors.

S. no.	Technology	Technology	Clinical information
1	Dissociation-enhanced lanthanide fluorescence immunoassay (DELFIA) & AUTO DELFIA	Prenatal screening for aneuploidy (dual and quadruple marker) using LifeCycle software	Prenatal testing may be offered to pregnant women to determine if the foetus has a possibility to be born with a genetic condition or birth defect
2	DELFIA	DELFIA New born screening	Newborn screening is a specific set of laboratory evaluations performed on newborn infants in an attempt to identify potentially serious disorders that require immediate intervention.
3	Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)	Heavy and trace metals (11 elements)	Metals such us copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, selenium, iron, zinc, and sulphur play a catalytic role in biochemical processes and are only needed in trace amounts
4	Capillary electrophoresis	Serum protein electrophoresis, immunotyping	Capillary electrophoresis allows a rapid and accurate signature-based measurement in the diagnosis and monitoring of major chronic diseases. It is also routinely used for screening of serum for protein abnormalities
5	Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)	Calculi analysis	FTIR - with attenuated total reflectance (ATR) test can give decisive clues (quick and reliable composition analysis) to help the patients prevent the formation of new kidney stones in the future
6	Microarray	Food intolerance test (215 analytes)	Microarray is a food sensitivity test that identifies immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies and immune-mediated reactions to certain foods. This test assesses the level of food antibodies in a blood specimen, detecting potential foods that may trigger symptoms
7	Phadiatop (ImmunoCAP, Fluoro-enzyme immunoassay)	Allergy test (comprehensive, Vegetarian, nonvegetarian, dust panel - total 51 allergens)	This test measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to a well-balanced mixture of common allergens and helps to rule in or rule out atopic allergy, i.e. the tendency to produce an IgE-mediated response to protein(s) in the environment
8	Fluorescent platelets (Platelet F)	Platelet count	The automated complete blood count (CBC) analyser also includes reticulocyte count, Platelet F value, both of which are highly sensitive & specific. Platelet F is an accurate and quick method for those patients with significant thrombocytopenia
9	Matrix assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) technology	Identification of organisms – bacteria and fungus	Vitek MS system is a simple, convenient, and accurate method for routine bacterial and fungal identification. It provides rapid results compared with conventional method
10	Sanger sequencing and next-generation sequencing (NGS)	Rare disease diagnostics Pharmacogenomics	Diagnosing rare diseases requires cutting-edge technology and deep expertise, both of which are at the core of our molecular diagnostics lab. We specialise in identifying genetic mutations and biomarkers associated with rare and complex conditions, offering hope and clarity to patients, who may have struggled with misdiagnosis or uncertainty for years. Whole exome sequencing and comprehensive testing panels using NGS technologies are designed to detect a wide range of rare disorders, providing crucial information for accurate diagnosis and treatment

Our Services

At Reliance Foundation Hospital, a world-class healthcare in Mumbai, we possess a comprehensive range of advanced laboratory and diagnostic services. Our services include:

The department offers a comprehensive range of advanced diagnostic and analytical services, leveraging cutting-edge technology to support accurate disease detection and management including:

Cytopathology
Frozen section laboratories
Histology
Immunostain laboratory
Pathology reporting specialists
Renal & liver pathology laboratory
Electron microscopy

RFH laboratories provides a suite of diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic, and quantitative or semi-quantitative immunohistochemical stains with interpretation. The below listed predictive and prognostic key biomarker tests are also offered as a part of these services:

Therapeutic and prognostic immunohistochemical (IHC) markers with interpretation
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) immunohistochemistry testing
Special immunohistochemistry stains with interpretation
Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immunohistochemistry testing

This department offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests to assess biochemical, immunological and metabolic parameters for precise and personalised patient care:

Prenatal screening for aneuploidy (dual and quadruple marker) using LifeCycle software
Newborn screening
Heavy and trace metals (11 elements)
Serum protein electrophoresis and immunotyping
Calculi analysis
Food intolerance test (215 analytes)
Allergy test (comprehensive, vegetarian, non-vegetarian, dust panel; total 51 allergens)

Microbiology focuses on the study of microorganisms such as algae, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, providing insights into infectious disease and their management. Once bacteria grow in culture, they can be tested against various antibiotics to identify the most effective option for fighting the infection while mitigating antibiotic resistance. Microbiology encompasses various specialized fields that focus on different aspects of infectious diseases and their diagnosis. These include:

Bacteriology
Hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serology and molecular testing
Infectious diseases serology
Initial processing and media
Mycobacteriology and mycology
Parasitology
Virology

Haematology involves the study of blood, its morphology and related diseases, providing critical insights into diagnostics, treatment and monitoring.

Flow cytometry, a pivotal technique, enables identification and quantification of cells in blood, bone marrow and body fluids. It plays a crucial role in diagnosing haematological malignancies, their lineage assessment, monitoring and prognostication.

Determination, quantification, and monitoring of lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood are vital for managing patients with HIV infections and other immunodeficiencies.

Additionally, regulatory T-cell (CD25), paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), and HLA B-27 analysis via flowcytometry, and HLA B-27 or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) play crucial roles in diagnosing autoimmune disorders.

The department offers the following specialized services:

Hematopathology morphology
Flow cytometry
Molecular haematology
Pathology reporting specialists
Special coagulation
Special DNA coagulation

A molecular diagnostics lab is a specialised facility equipped with advanced technologies to analyse DNA and RNA for the detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of various diseases. It focuses on molecular-level testing, to precisely identify genetic mutations, pathogens, and other biomarkers associated with inherited disorders, cancers, and infectious diseases. It includes:

Clinical genomics sequencing laboratory
Molecular genetics

The molecular testing capabilities are enhanced by state-of -the-art instrument designed for the rapid development and deployment of assays. This ensures swift identification of emerging pathogens, particularly during pandemics. With advanced technologies and an adaptable laboratory setup, we deliver accurate results that support public health efforts and timely medical interventions.

By utilising cutting-edge technology such as real-time PCR, Sanger sequencing, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and other molecular assays, a Molecular Diagnostics Lab provides critical insights that guide personalised treatment plans and improve patient outcomes.

The department offers the following specialized services:

Complete Range of Transplant-Related Pathogens
An extensive testing menu for transplant-related pathogens is offered, that supports both pre-transplant screening and post-transplant monitoring. These tests encompass a broad range of viruses, bacteria, and fungi that may influence transplant outcomes. Early and accurate detection is critical for preventing complications and ensuring successful transplant procedures.
Closed Systems Such as GeneXpert and BioFire
The lab employs advanced closed systems like GeneXpert and BioFire to elevate the accuracy and efficiency of molecular diagnostics. These automated platforms streamline the testing process, minimises contamination risk, and ensure rapid, reliable results. With these systems, pathogens can be identified quickly and with high precision, making them essential tools in our diagnostic laboratory.
The FilmArray system enables rapid and comprehensive syndromic testing to detect multiple pathogens from a single sample, covering respiratory, gastrointestinal, and meningitis/encephalitis, sepsis and joint infections. This approach improves clinical management and facilitate antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) when used appropriately.
Viral Load Testing
Viral load testing is a critical service we provide for monitoring the severity of viral infections, particularly in chronic conditions such as HIV and hepatitis. By quantifying the virus concentrations present in the blood, our blood tests deliver vital insights into disease progression and guiding treatment decisions.

The Department of Transfusion Medicine (Blood Centre) at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital is licensed by the Food and Drug Administration, a member of the State Blood Transfusion Council and part of the Federation of Blood Banks.

The goal is to provide state-of-the-art medical facilities, incorporating safe blood transfusion practices that meet global standards. A strong focus is placed on ensuring the highest quality services, operating efficiency, donor satisfaction, and improved patient care.

The department plays a pivotal role in patient care, emphasising the rational use of blood and blood components. The dedicated team of doctors, trained medical staff, and counsellors ensure ethical healthcare practices in every aspect of safe blood transfusion, starting with donor selection procedures, bleeding procedure, donor safety, blood screening, blood group determination, irregular antibody testing, and screening for transfusion-transmitted infections.

Ensuring safety begins with a diligent check of donor’s medical history and physical examination. Each unit of blood is tested for HIV 1 and 2, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, syphilis, and malaria using state-of-the-art medical technology and methods. Additionally, each unit of blood undergoes nucleic acid testing layer of safety provided by subjecting . We are proud to be among the few centres in the country that utilises this advanced technology.

The immunohematology lab conducts blood group testing for both donor and patient, along with Rh-kell phenotyping, antibody identification, and analysis using a fully automated solid-phase system. Advanced procedures such as auto/allo adsorption, elution, extended antigen typing, and platelet crossmatch, are performed for complex cases.

Other advanced technologies available include leucocyte reduction, irregular antibody screen, and irradiation. The use of sterile connecting devices allows us to prepare blood components in aliquots for paediatric transfusions, ensuring safe and efficient delivery.

Apheresis services

Apheresis service involves passing blood from a person through a machine or apparatus to separate specific components and return the remaining blood to the person. The area is equipped with fully automated cell separator, which can be programmed to produce various components and perform various therapeutic procedures. The services provided include:

Platelet apheresis
Therapeutic plasma exchange
Red cell exchange
Granulocyte apheresis
Haematopoietic stem cell collection.

The multiphase digital pathology initiative integrates advanced digital infrastructure to facilitate new clinical, research, and education opportunities.

This initiative further enhances patient-specimen identification and reduces the occurrences of lost or damaged slides, improving overall patient care. Faster diagnostics, workflow efficiencies, and reproducible results benefit both the providers and patients.

The digital pathology scanners can handle various types of tissue samples, including those from solid tumours, biopsies, cytology specimens. The scanners accommodate different specimen sizes, from small biopsy specimens to large tissue sections, and support a range of staining techniques such as haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, and immunohistochemistry (IHC).