Metabolism Department

The Metabolism Laboratory provides a comprehensive analytical and consultation service on metabolic problems for medical and surgical patients within the St. Vincent’s Healthcare Group, and acts as a referring centre for specialist markers of bone and renal disease nationally.

Bone biochemical markers play a key role in determining bone-modelling processes. Evaluation of biochemical markers of bone turnover – an independent predictor of fracture risk – has become part of the routine service and is included in the investigation and management of patients with osteoporosis, osteomalacia, Paget’s disease, primary hyperparathyroidism, anorexia nervosa and osteogenesis imperfecta.

In addition to this very specialised work the laboratory provides a wide range of analyses, including vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone related peptide, albumin excretion rates, albumin/creatinine ratio and analysis in renal stone forming patients.

Some of the above tests require specific instructions to be followed. Protocols for these should be obtained from the Metabolism Laboratory in advance of the sample being taken.

Opening hours of the Metabolism Laboratory are Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm, and staff may be contacted at extension 4513 / 4672.