Chemistry

The Chemistry Division consists of the Clinical Services, Lead, and Chemical Terrorism/Biomonitoring branches.

The Clinical Services Branch offers routine chemistry profiles, screening for hepatitis A, B, and C, complete blood counts (CBCs), CD4 lymphocyte subset enumeration, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction for HIV viral load testing. Specimens submitted for analysis performed in this Branch are received from county health departments, federally funded primary health care centers, and community-based HIV treatment programs.

The Lead Branch conducts both clinical and environmental lead testing. Paint, soil, water, and wipe samples submitted by Public Health Environmentalists are analyzed to determine the source of lead exposure for children with confirmed blood levels greater than or equal to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter.

The Chemical Terrorism/Biomonitoring Branch performs cyanide and trace metal analysis as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for statewide emergency preparedness.