Analysis and identification of drugs and suspicious substances

What substances does the LNS Analytical Chemistry Service (SCAN) analyse?

The LNS Analytical Chemistry Service (SCAN) specialises in identifying drugs and pharmaceutical products.

Who can request a substance analysis?

The SCAN service works mainly for public authorities such as the police, customs, the judiciary, the Ministry of Health and Social Security, the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & HealthCare (EDQM), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), as well as social services (Jugend an Drogenhellef, Abrigado, etc.).

If there are concerns about pharmaceutical products (for example, suspected defects), private companies and individuals should contact the Pharmacy and Medicines Division within the Health Directorate.

As a private individual, can I request an analysis if I suspect poisoning or the presence of poison?

No. Analyses are carried out only pursuant to a judicial decision.

Anonymous screening for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C

For which infections is anonymous testing available?

The LNS offers anonymous testing for:

• HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
• syphilis
• hepatitis B
• hepatitis C

What does “anonymous testing” mean?

With anonymous testing, no personal information (name, address, date of birth, etc.) is collected. The sample is linked only to an anonymous code, ensuring that no one – including medical staff – can know who it belongs to.

Why should I consider anonymous testing?

Anonymous testing may be appropriate if you:

• wish to avoid any risk of discrimination or stigmatisation,
• believe you may have been exposed to a risk (for example after unprotected sex or sharing needles),
• prefer to obtain clear answers first without having to disclose your identity.

How does anonymous testing work at the LNS?

The procedure is as follows:

1. A blood sample is taken by an LNS doctor
2. If desired: counselling (voluntary, anonymous and confidential)
3. Laboratory analysis within 3 working days
4. Collection of the results at the LNS using the anonymous code provided when the sample was taken

Is the test result reliable?

Yes. The tests used meet strict quality standards. The timeframes shown below indicate how long you should wait after the most recent risk exposure for the test result to be reliable.

Infection	When is the test reliable? (after the most recent risk exposure
VIH	after 6 weeks
Syphilis	usually after 3 weeks, and no later than after 3 months
Hépatite B	usually after 3 weeks, and no later than after 3 months
Hépatite C	usually after 2-3 months, and no later than after 6 months

Is my result recorded anywhere?

No. No link is established between you and the result. It is not recorded in a medical file or with the National Health Fund (CNS).

I am afraid of the result. What can I do?

This is understandable and completely normal. Many services offer psychosocial support before and after testing – anonymously and free of charge, of course. You are not alone.

Advice: If you have been exposed to a risk, do not delay getting tested. Early diagnosis enables prompt care, protects those around you and can save lives.

Autopsies

Is it possible to request an autopsy for a deceased family member?

Yes, in certain cases.

In the event of a natural death, the doctor (general practitioner or specialist) may request a medical autopsy, with the agreement of the deceased person’s family.

In this case, the autopsy will be performed by the National Centre of Pathology (NCP), which requires the following:

• a medical prescription requesting the medical autopsy and specifying the medical hypotheses to be confirmed or ruled out as a priority,
• written authorisation from the family,
• the declaration of causes of death form,
• and relevant information on the deceased person’s medical history.

If the death is violent, unknown or suspicious, the body is placed under judicial authority and a police investigation is conducted.

• As part of a judicial investigation, the competent District Court may, following a request from the Public Prosecutor’s Office, order a medico-legal autopsy. In this case, the LNS Department of Forensic Medicine is responsible for performing the autopsy. Such a request is made independently of the deceased person’s family and does not require prior consultation with them.
• If the body is released without the competent Public Prosecutor’s Office requesting a medico-legal autopsy, the family may request a medical autopsy which, if accepted, may be performed by the LNS National Centre of Pathology. In this situation, the body-release document issued by the Public Prosecutor’s Office must be attached to the documents listed above that are required for the medical-autopsy request.

How can I access the autopsy report?

A distinction must be made between a medical autopsy and a medico-legal autopsy.

In the case of a medical autopsy (natural death), a copy of the report may be requested by the prescribing doctor from the National Center of Pathology (NCP) by telephone on (+352) 28 100 345.

Please note that reports are never sent by email and results are not communicated by telephone.

In the case of a medico-legal autopsy (violent, unknown or suspicious death; opening of a judicial investigation and involvement of the police), ordered by the District Court of Luxembourg or Diekirch, access to the report for the family must be authorised by the competent Public Prosecutor’s Office (Luxembourg City district, Tel.: (+352) 47 59 81 1; Diekirch district, Tel.: (+352) 80 32 14 1). Forensic doctors are not authorised to inform the family of the autopsy results unless expressly authorised by the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

A deceased relative is undergoing an autopsy: what happens next?

In the case of a medico-legal autopsy, the body is placed under judicial authority and can only be returned to the family once the competent Public Prosecutor’s Office has issued authorisation for its release.

Once the body has been released, the family, in coordination with the funeral home of its choice, can proceed with the following steps:

• collecting the death declaration for municipal administrative procedures,
• completing the administrative formalities related to the death (death certificate, sealing of the coffin and authorisation from the health inspectorate for transport abroad),
• making an appointment with our service for a possible farewell ceremony at the LNS and/or ritual or funeral washing in accordance with religious practices. For any request or to arrange an appointment, you can contact us on the following numbers: (+352) 28 100 381 / 385 / 696 / 699
• collecting the body for funeral arrangements.

Families are strongly advised to contact a funeral home at an early stage to prepare for the handling of the body. The appointed funeral home can then coordinate between the mortuary and the deceased person’s family.

Is it possible to see a deceased person after an autopsy?

Yes. It is possible to see the deceased person after the autopsy once the body has been released (medico-legal autopsy) or once the examination process has been completed (medical autopsy).

The body is returned under conditions that ensure respect and dignity for the deceased. A farewell ceremony may also be organised at the LNS.

The ceremony must be organised by the funeral home and requires a prior appointment with the mortuary staff, who can be reached on (+352) 28 100 381 / 385 / 696 / 699.

 

Does an autopsy involve any costs for the deceased person’s family?

The costs associated with the autopsy are covered:

• by the Ministry of Justice in the case of a medico-legal autopsy;
• by the CNS in the case of a medical autopsy. Please note, however, that the cost of transporting the body to the LNS, when carried out by a funeral company, remains payable by the family unless the transport is covered by the hospital or by private insurance.

Bacteriology, mycology and mycobacteriology testing

How long will it take for my bacteriology test result to be available?

In bacteriology, turnaround times are measured in days because bacteria need time to grow. For more information on result turnaround times, please consult our analysis catalogue available here.

How long will it take for my mycology test result to be available?

For a mycology analysis (i.e. testing for yeasts/fungi in a sample), turnaround times may vary from 3 to 20 days depending on the type of analysis and pathogen. For more information on result turnaround times, please consult our analysis catalogue available here.

How long will it take for my final result to be available for an analysis involving testing for mycobacteria?

Testing for mycobacteria requires a longer turnaround time. A reliable definitive result is generally obtained after around 2 months because these bacteria grow extremely slowly.

Billing

Why did I receive an invoice?

If you are affiliated with the CNS when the analyses are performed, the costs are covered directly and billed to the CNS. You will therefore not receive an invoice.

However, if you are not affiliated with the CNS, you will be invoiced for the costs. Once the invoice has been paid, you may request reimbursement from your private insurer.

How will I receive my invoice?

Invoices are sent by post to the address you provided. If you changed address after the sample was taken for analysis, please inform us as soon as possible at facturation@lns.etat.lu.

Why did I receive a fee statement, and what are the costs of a genetics consultation?

In accordance with the Schedule of Medical Acts and Services established by the National Health Fund (CNS), consultations in genetic medicine are billed according to the official rates in force, which doctors are required to follow.

Please consult the current rates for genetics consultations: (link to Fees Notice)

After the consultation, you will receive a fee statement by post. The medical fees must initially be paid directly by the patient to the LNS Billing Service. After payment, you may submit a reimbursement request to your health insurance fund by providing the original paid fee statements together with proof of payment. The reimbursement level depends on the organisation with which you are insured.

Your personal situation then determines the level of coverage. In summary:

If you are affiliated with the CNS:

• You must pay the consultation costs up front and will then be reimbursed by the CNS.
• As an indication, the reimbursement rate is 88% for adults and 100% for minors.

If you are not affiliated with the CNS:

• You are responsible for all medical fees related to genetics consultations.

We recommend contacting your insurer to find out about any reimbursement conditions that may apply.

 

How can I pay my invoice?

You will find all the information needed to make the bank transfer on your invoice.

I did not include the payment reference, or I entered an incorrect reference on my bank transfer. What should I do?

If the payment reference shown on your transfer is incorrect or incomplete, please contact us as soon as possible at facturation@lns.etat.luand send us the payment details. We will then be able to match the payment to your file.
It is important to include the invoice reference when making your bank transfer to avoid any delay in processing.

I paid my invoice twice. What should I do?

If you notice that your invoice has been paid twice, please contact our Billing Service at facturation@lns.etat.lu and provide the details of your payments. After verification, we will issue a refund as soon as possible.

Why did I receive a payment reminder?

A reminder is sent if your invoice has not been paid within the required period. If you have already made the payment but nevertheless receive a reminder from us, please accept our apologies. Your payment may have crossed with our reminder. Please send us a copy of your proof of payment to avoid any confusion.

I would like proof of payment (debit advice) for my invoice.

The Billing Service is unable to issue proof of payment. Please remember to request a debit advice from your bank when making payment by bank transfer.

We can, however, stamp the invoice “paid” when payment is made on site.

How can I contact the Billing Service?

You can contact our Billing Service by email at facturation@lns.etat.lu or by calling the following numbers: (+352) 28 100 326 / 327 / 727. Our team will be happy to respond to your queries as soon as possible.

Change of contact details

How can I inform LNS of a change of address or contact details?To notify us of a change of address or contact details, please complete the contact form available here and select “Change of contact details” as the subject.

To notify us of a change of address or contact details, please complete the contact form available here and select “Change of healthcare professional contact details” as the subject.

How can I inform the LNS that my address or contact details have changed?

To notify us of a change of address or contact details, please complete the contact form available here and select the subject “Change of contact details”.

Complaints and Feedback

How can I provide feedback or submit a complaint?

We attach great importance to your feedback, whether positive or relating to dissatisfaction. If you would like to share a comment or suggestion, or submit a complaint, please consult our Complaints and Feedback , where you will find all the information needed to submit your request.

Environmental medicine

If I have health problems and suspect that my environment (for example at home or at my workplace) may be the cause, how can I arrange environmental analyses or analyses of human samples to detect the presence of chemical or microbiological substances?

Your general practitioner can refer you, by means of a medical prescription, to the National Hospital Service for Environmental Medicine (SHNME).

There, a doctor specialising in environmental medicine will see you for a full consultation and determine which analyses need to be performed.

To make an appointment for a consultation at the SHNME, please send the prescription together with your consultation request to the following address: info.medi@lns.etat.lu.

info.medi@lns.etat.lu.

What are the symptoms of chemical or microbiological pollution in my home?

There are no specific symptoms that directly identify a particular type of pollution. However, air quality or the presence of dust in your home may cause various problems (respiratory, eye, skin, ENT, gastrointestinal, etc.), the severity of which varies according to the type of pollutant, the duration and the level of exposure.

Do you perform water analyses?

No. For any water analysis, please contact the Water Management Administration (AGE) directly.

How can I take part in the LëtzHBM general biological monitoring survey?

Registration is completed online via the following link: Take part in the LëtzHBM survey.
If you are eligible to take part in the survey, you will be contacted by telephone to arrange an appointment and have the samples collected directly at your home.
If you are not eligible, you will receive an email informing you that you cannot take part in the survey.

Genetic consultation and testing

How do I make an appointment for a genetic consultation?

Please send your prescription by email to ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu and include your telephone number so that our secretariat can contact you to arrange an appointment.
For any further information, you can contact our secretariat on (+352) 28 100 441.

How can I change or cancel my consultation?

To cancel or change your genetics consultation, please contact our secretariat by email at ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu or by telephone on (+352) 28 100 441.

How should I prepare for my genetics consultation?

Before attending your genetics consultation, it is important to prepare properly so that discussions with the specialist are easier and your care can be optimised. Please bring the documents and information listed below:

• Medical records: relevant diagnoses, treatments, pathology reports and test results. If you have already undergone genetic testing, it is important to bring the laboratory reports.
• Family history: if you are consulting about a disease present in your family, it is important to bring the medical report and test results of the family member concerned. We also need information about health problems and diseases affecting your parents and grandparents.
• Questions and concerns: write down any questions you may have about genetic risks, tests or their possible implications.

Note: You do not need to fast for a blood sample for genetic analysis. You may therefore eat normally and take your usual medicines before your appointment.

Can I eat before the consultation?

Yes. You do not need to fast for a blood sample for genetic analysis. You may eat normally and take your usual medicines.

How can I access the results of my genetic analyses after a consultation at the LNS?

Once the results are available, our secretariat will contact you to arrange a results consultation. At the end of this consultation, you will receive a copy of your results. A more detailed medical report will be sent to you by post and also to your prescribing doctor.

How long does it take to receive the results?

The turnaround time depends on the type of analysis performed. Our specialists will inform you of the expected timeframe during the consultation.

I have not received my results. What should I do?

Your results are communicated during a dedicated consultation with your geneticist.
Please contact our secretariat by email at ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu or by telephone on (+352) 28 100 441.

I have received my results and would like to discuss them. Who should I contact?

If the genetic test was prescribed by an LNS doctor, your prescribing doctor remains your main contact for explaining your test results and ensuring appropriate medical follow-up based on your clinical situation. Please contact our secretariat by email at ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu or by telephone on (+352) 28 100 441.

How should my patients prepare for their consultation at the LNS?

Please ask them to bring copies of relevant medical documents (for example: hospital discharge letter, histopathology reports, developmental assessments for children).

I have not received my patient’s genetic test results. What should I do?

If the test was initiated by a physician outside the LNS, please contact our secretariat by email at ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu or by telephone at (+352) 28 100 549.ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu

I have received my patients’ test results and would like to discuss them. Who should I contact at the laboratory?

Please contact our secretariat by email at ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu or by telephone at (+352) 28 100 549.ncg-clingen@lns.etat.lu

Genetic paternity / parentage testing

As a private individual, can I request a forensic genetic analysis?

No. Analyses are carried out only pursuant to a judicial decision.

Can I have a genealogical test to determine my genetic origins?

No. Analyses are carried out only pursuant to a judicial decision.

As a private individual, can I have a paternity / parentage test?

No. Parentage tests are performed only pursuant to a judicial decision.

Can a doctor prescribe a parentage test?

No. Parentage tests are performed only pursuant to a judicial decision.

If I need to undergo a parentage test ordered by a court (judgment), how do I make an appointment?

You will receive an initial notification from the LNS Forensic Genetics Service (SIG) indicating the date and time of your appointment.

If you cannot attend or are otherwise prevented from attending, you can contact the service by telephone on (+352) 28 100 671 (Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except public holidays) or by email at secretariat.SIG@lns.etat.lu.

 

For a parentage test ordered by a court (judgment), when and where is the DNA sample collected?

DNA samples are collected by appointment only, without exception.
Collection takes place at the LNS, 1, rue Louis Rech, L-3555 Dudelange.

For a parentage test, how is DNA collected?

The collection is painless, risk-free and non-invasive and requires no prior preparation.
DNA is collected by gently rubbing a swab against the inside of each cheek.

For a parentage test, can I collect the sample myself?

No. Self-collected samples are not accepted for traceability and identification reasons.

For a parentage test, how can I obtain the result?

The report is sent to the court, which is responsible for communicating the results to the persons concerned.

Hair toxicology testing

What types of hair analyses does the LNS Forensic Toxicology Service perform?

The Forensic Toxicology Service performs toxicological analyses on hair to detect:

• various drugs of abuse: cannabis/THC (upon specific request: CBD, CBN and the THC-COOH consumption marker), amphetamines (including amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDA, MDMA and MDEA), cocaine (including cocaine and its metabolites BZE, norcocaine and cocaethylene), opiates (including morphine and 6-monoacetylmorphine, as well as the opioid methadone and its metabolite EDDP)
• the chronic alcohol-consumption marker ethyl glucuronide (EtG)
• various classes of medicines (antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, other opioids, sedatives)

Can I request an analysis without a prescription?

No. We perform analyses only upon presentation of a medical prescription or at the request of a Luxembourg authority (for example, the Ministry of Transport).

How can I make an appointment for a toxicological hair analysis?

You can make an appointment by clicking the following link: here. You will first need to create an account and follow the steps indicated.
You can also make an appointment by calling our service on (+352) 28 100 563, Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (except public holidays).

How much does a toxicological hair analysis cost?

The exact price will be communicated when you make the appointment via the online portal. Payment is made on site at the LNS. Please note that this analysis is not covered by the CNS.

When and where is the hair sample collected?

The appointment for hair collection must be booked in advance at www.portal.lns.lu. Collection is performed exclusively at the LNS, 1, rue Louis Rech, L-3555 Dudelange.

Can I collect the sample myself?

No. We do not accept samples collected by clients themselves for traceability and identification reasons. Collection is performed exclusively at the LNS, 1, rue Louis Rech, L-3555 Dudelange.

How much hair will be collected?

The sample must be approximately the thickness of a pencil; small quantities may be collected from several places at the back of the head to obtain the required amount.
The full length of the hair is not analysed: the proximal section (closest to the scalp) is used (for example, a maximum of 3 cm for the Ministry of Transport).

Can hair from other parts of the body be analysed?

No. Only scalp hair is accepted.

What should I bring to the appointment?

For your appointment, please bring the following:

• A valid national identity card or passport;
• A medical prescription or a request from a Luxembourg authority (for example, the Ministry of Transport), dated less than six months ago;
• A means of payment (bank card or cash); payment is made on site at the LNS.

Note: To carry out this analysis, our teams must be able to collect at least 1 cm of hair.
If these requirements are not met, the appointment will have to be rescheduled.

 

What should I do if I cannot attend the appointment?

Please contact our service to change or cancel the appointment on (+352) 28 100 563, Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (except public holidays).

How long does it take to obtain the results?

The turnaround time is indicated in the analysis catalogue.

Can I obtain a copy of the result?

If the request for analysis was submitted by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, please contact the competent Public Prosecutor’s Office for any information.
If the request for analysis was submitted by a doctor, you can receive your analysis report if this option was requested at the time of prescribing. It will be sent by post to the address recorded in our systems.

LNS forms

How can I access LNS forms and documentation?

All our documentation and LNS forms are now available in our new Analysis catalog, accessible via the Ubilab platform.

By selecting the “A patient” or “A healthcare professional” profile in our Analysis catalog, you can access all our LNS forms and manuals. Simply select the desired analysis, then go to the “Documents” section of the analysis. There, you will find all the forms and documents associated with the analysis.

To discover how to log in, familiarise yourself with the navigation and make the most of the features available in our Analysis Handbook, we invite you to visit our Our Analysis catalog page.

Medical biology

Do I need an appointment to come for a medical biology test?

You may come for a blood sample or urine sample without an appointment from Monday to Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.

Do I need an appointment to come for an allergology test?

For a specialised allergy test (LTT or BAT), you need to make an appointment by calling (+352) 28 100 582.

My test results

Will I receive my analysis report?

Your test results are automatically sent to the healthcare professional who requested the test, as well as to any other healthcare professionals copied on the request, where applicable.
You may also receive your test report by post if this option was requested when the test was prescribed.

However, for certain tests, the reports cannot be sent directly to you.

This is particularly the case for certain genetic and pathology tests, which require appropriate support and additional explanations to ensure their results are properly understood. For these tests, the results are sent only to the requesting physician, so that they can be communicated to you with the appropriate guidance and in the context of your medical care.

Since 1 October 2026, pathology and cytology reports are directly integrated into your electronic healthcare record (DSP). You will therefore be able to see in your DSP that your examination report is available.

Pathology reports will remain locked in the DSP. Access to them can be unlocked by any healthcare professional who is part of the circle of trust defined by the patient. This measure ensures that the results, which may be complex to interpret, can be explained to you and put into context by a healthcare professional.

Cytology reports will be immediately accessible.

 

How long does it take for analysis results to become available?

Turnaround times vary depending on the nature and complexity of the analyses performed. They can be found in the analysis catalogue.

Please note:

• For certain specialised examinations, additional time may be required because of the techniques used or additional analyses.
• Samples are generally processed on D+1 after collection. This period may be longer for certain analyses.
• Analyses are performed only from Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

I have questions about my results. Who can I discuss them with?

Your prescribing doctor remains your main point of contact for explaining your test results and ensuring appropriate medical follow-up based on your clinical situation.

NIPT

What is NIPT?

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a screening test for fetal chromosomal abnormalities performed using a simple blood sample from a pregnant patient. The test is based on the analysis of cell-free fetal DNA circulating in the maternal blood. It is a highly reliable screening test and poses no risk to the fetus.

The most common chromosomal abnormalities include trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), and trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome).

What is a trisomy?

Each cell in the body has DNA, which contains all of a person’s genetic information. This information is organised into 23 pairs of chromosomes: 22 autosome pairs (1 to 22) and two sex chromosomes, namely XX or XY.

Female karyotype 46,XX

Male karyotype 46,XY
A trisomy refers to the presence of 3 copies of a chromosome, instead of two.

Karyotype showing trisomy 21 : 47,XY,+21

How does non-invasive prenatal testing work?

During pregnancy, fragments of foetal DNA from the placenta (cytotrophoblast) enter the mother’s bloodstream. These fragments are free-floating and not within cells, and are called cell-free foetal DNA (cffDNA). Through a simple blood test done at a laboratory, the fragments of cffDNA are counted to look for the presence of an extra chromosome 21, 13 or 18. This avoids invasive testing (such as an amniotic fluid test), which carries a greater risk for the foetus and results in miscarriages in 0.1-0.3% of patients.

The method used to count cffDNA is high-throughput sequencing. The technique offered by National Center of Genetics is a whole-genome approach using the NIPT Veriseq Solution V2 developed by Illumina® ; CE-IVD certified.

Sequencing is more extensive and not limited to the chromosomes of interest. This technique also allows number abnormalities of chromosomes 13, 18 and 21 to be detected. It is used for twins or where there is a low volume of cffDNA in the mother’s blood.

In very rare cases, this whole-genome sequencing technique can detect other chromosomal anomalies (other trisomies, large duplication or deletion > 7Mb in size, or exceptionally chromosomal anomaly from maternal origin)

When is NIPT recommended?

This screening test is requested for pregnant women by physician in charge of monitoring their pregnancy, based on their medical history, and may be done from 12 weeks gestation (10^th week of pregnancy) onwards.

It is not suitable for investigating abnormalities revealed on ultrasound scans, particularly nuchal translucency of > 3.5mm in the first trimester. In practice, this test should be done following the 1^st trimester scan. Before it is performed, a specific form must be filled out by the doctor requesting the test and the patient, which must be sent to the Laboratoire national de santé along with a blood sample.

Pricing and Payment / Reimbursement Terms

There are two situations depending on the patient’s affiliation with the CNS:

1. Patients affiliated with the CNS

The NIPT test is fully covered by the CNS.
Affiliated patients do not receive any invoice, as the coverage is handled directly between the LNS and the CNS.
The applied rate, set at €606.80, is determined and updated annually by the CNS.

2. Patients not affiliated with the CNS

Patients who are not eligible for CNS reimbursement will receive an invoice directly issued by the LNS.
The test fee is €606.80, the same for all patients, whether affiliated or not.
Non-affiliated patients must then submit a reimbursement request to their own insurance provider.

 

When should NIPT be done?

NIPT may be done from 10 weeks gestation onwards, but ideally should be done from 12 weeks gestation, following the 1^st scan. However, it may be recommended throughout the pregnancy. This test does not require fasting beforehand and you may have the blood taken at your normal laboratory. However, you can also have it taken at the LNS.

Who performs this analysis?

All stages of the test are carried out by the team at the National Center of Genetics (the Cytogenetics team, in collaboration with the Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics and Sequencing platforms). The team comprises specialized and experienced technical, administrative and medical staff with expertise in prenatal cytogenetics.

How long will I have to wait for my results and how will I get them?

Results are sent solely to the doctor who requested the test 7 to 10 days after the LNS receives your blood sample. They are never sent directly to the patient.

In the event of a:

Positive result

This means there is a high probability that the fetus has trisomy 21, 13 or 18. Nevertheless, NIPT is a screening test and the relevant professional bodies recommend having a positive NIPT result confirmed by way of an invasive diagnostic test (primarily an amniotic fluid test). Your gynaecologist will talk you through the results and next steps.

The cytogenetics team will analyze the sample of amniotic fluid taken and interpret the results. You may also be asked to attend a genetic consultation with our team.

In very rare cases, NIPT can detect other chromosomal anomalies (other trisomies, large duplication or deletion > 7Mb in size, or exceptionally chromosomal anomaly from maternal origin). Only chromosomal anomaly of medical interest for the ongoing pregnancy would be reported.

In case of detection of a rare chromosomal anomaly, medical genetic consultation is required to explain in details the anomaly, potential effects for the fetus (or for you), and need of further investigations.

 

Negative result:

This means that the probability of the fetus having trisomy 21, 13 or 18 is very low. In this case, your pregnancy will be monitored as planned.

Inconclusive result:

This means that it is not possible to reliably determine if the fetus has trisomy 13, 18 or 21. Inconclusive results are rare (around 1% of cases), but may occur for example when there is not enough cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) circulating in the blood sample taken from the mother. The proportion of cffDNA in the mother’s blood is known as the fetal fraction and is determined by many factors, including her BMI, if she is taking certain blood thinners, etc. Depending on your medical history, your gynaecologist may recommend you repeat the test or have further tests done.

Under no circumstances does having NIPT mean you do not have to go to your prenatal scans or attend check-ups with your obstetrician. This test is not a substitute for having your 1^st trimester scan.

Is NIPT reliable?

The NIPT performed by the LNS is very reliable in terms of sensitivity and specificity.

The sensitivity is over 99% for detection of the most common anomalies, trisomy 13 , 18 and 21.

For more rare anomalies, the sensitivity ranges from 74 to 96%
– 96% for rare autosomal trisomies
– 74% for gain or loss of chromosomal >7 Mb (data Illumina®)

NIPT remains therefore a screening test and cannot exclude at 100% presence of fetal chromosomal anomaly even in case of normal result.

Predictive positive value, meaning probability that the fetus is truly affected if the NIPT result is abnormal, is :
– 93% for trisomy 21
– 80% for trisomy 18
– 50% for trisomy 13
– 15-20% for rare chromosomal anomalies. (data : National Center of Genetics)

NIPT analyzes cell free circulating DNA from placental origin. In some cases, the anomaly detected can be limited to the placenta without affecting the fetus. This phenomenon is known for every kind of chromosomal anomaly but more frequent for rare anomalies.

That’s why in case of abnormal NIPT result, a confirmation should be done on an invasive testing (preferably amniocentesis).

What are the limits of NIPT?

The non-invasive prenatal testing is a screening test for abnormalities in chromosomes. NIPT is unable to detect polyploidies (such as triploidy), balanced chromosomal rearrangements (exchanges of chromosomal fragments without any loss or gain of material), microdeletion/microduplication syndromes, or point mutation leading to monogenic disorders.

Any other questions about the NIPT test?

For all queries relating to NIPT, please get in touch with the constitutional cytogenetics team at the National Center of Genetics.

Tel. : +352 28100 549 (Monday-Friday, 09.00-12.00 and 13.00-17.00)
Fax : +352 28100 542
Email : ncg-cytogen@lns.etat.lu

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)

What are the sampling requirements for the NIPT test?

The NIPT test request form, as well as the sampling and storage protocol, are available in the Analysis Catalogue.

To order Streck tubes, please complete the order form available here, then send it to the LNS Supply Department at:

LNSMagasin@lns.etat.lu.

Use 1 STRECK tube

Fill the tube

Invert the tube 10 times

Transport: T° et duration
May be kept at ambient temperature for a maximum period of 72 hours

Sample reception: Monday to Friday

Required documents:

• Prescription
• Consent form completed and signed by both the prescribing physician and the patient

 

As a healthcare professional, who can I contact if I have questions about NIPT?

For any questions regarding the NIPT, you can contact the Constitutional Cytogenetics Team at the National Centre of Genetics.

• Tel.: (+352) 28 100 549 (Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Email : ncg-cytogen@lns.etat.lu

Order supplies

How can I order sampling materials from the LNS?

You can order sampling materials from LNS only for analyses performed at the LNS. To place an order, please complete the order form and send it to the following email address: LNSMagasin@lns.etat.lu. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our Central Stock Team at (+352) 28 100 277.

Recruitment

How can I apply for a position at the LNS?

We invite you to apply for our job opportunities via our  page. To apply, you will be asked to provide an up-to-date CV, a cover letter and, where applicable, a licence to practise (for ATM staff and laboratory technicians only).

Please note that only applications submitted via the Our Vacancies page will be considered. Applications submitted through any other channel (contact form, email or other) will not be processed.

How does the LNS recruitment process work?

The LNS is an equal opportunities employer. It promotes a multicultural working environment that values gender equality, teamwork and respect for diversity. Qualified applicants are considered without distinction as to colour, age, sex, religion, disability, national or ethnic origin, or social status.

Recruitment process: stages of your application

Here is what will happen after you submit your application for a specific position:

• Acknowledgement of receipt: You will receive an automatic confirmation as soon as your application has been submitted.
• Application review: Our team will review your application against the requirements of the position and the skills sought.
• Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 6 weeks. If you have not heard from us after this period, this means that your application has not been selected for this position. You will, however, be welcome to apply for other opportunities in the future.
• Interviews: If your profile is shortlisted, an initial interview will be arranged according to your availability. During this interview, we will explain the recruitment process and the different stages to come in more detail.
• Final decision:
  • If your application is successful: You will be contacted by phone and email to confirm our decision, followed by a job offer.
  • If your application is unsuccessful: You will be informed as soon as possible by phone or email.
• Hiring: If you accept our job offer, you will need to provide the required administrative documents, including copies of your diplomas, employment certificates, authorisation to practise in Luxembourg where applicable, and criminal record certificates (Bulletin No. 3, as well as Bulletin No. 4 for driving positions). Once these documents have been verified, we will prepare your employment contract, which must be signed no later than the day before you start work.

What types of positions are available at the LNS?

We offer positions in diagnostics, research, technical support, administration and more. Visit our Vacancies page to view current opportunities.

Do I need a licence to practise to work at the LNS?

For certain regulated professions, you must hold a licence to practise issued by the Luxembourg authorities. This procedure ensures that you meet the legal requirements specific to your profession. For more details, please consult the dedicated page on the website of the Ministry of Health and Social Security.

 

What is the working language of the laboratory?

The LNS is a multicultural environment with 26 nationalities. Our main working languages are French and English, but you will also commonly hear Luxembourg’s two other official languages: Luxembourgish and German.

How can I learn more about the LNS culture?

You can find out more about life at the LNS by following us on LinkedIn and Instagram !

Does the LNS offer internship opportunities?

Yes, we regularly offer internship opportunities in a range of fields. These experiences allow students and young professionals to discover our working environment, acquire practical skills and contribute to our projects. To see available opportunities, consult the Vacancies page.

 

What is the LNS commitment to the GDPR in the recruitment process?

We process all personal data collected during recruitment in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring the confidentiality and protection of your information. For more information, please consult our Data Protection Information Notices.

 

 

Resistance to antiretroviral treatment (HIV)

What is HIV drug-resistance sequencing?

This test analyses the genome of the HIV virus present in the blood in order to identify possible mutations that may be associated with resistance to antiretroviral treatment. It therefore helps in choosing the most appropriate treatment.

When is HIV drug-resistance sequencing indicated?

This test is indicated in the following situations:

• Before starting antiretroviral treatment
• In the event of virological failure (viral load does not decrease or rises again)
• When changing treatment
• In the event of virus transmission with suspected resistance

How is the HIV drug-resistance sequencing test performed?

The test is performed on a blood sample (EDTA tube). It is generally carried out in hospital at the request of your general practitioner or infectious-disease specialist.

Is there a minimum viral load required for HIV drug-resistance sequencing?

Yes. A viral load of at least 200 copies/mL is recommended to ensure an interpretable result.

What type of sequencing is used?

At the LNS, next-generation sequencing (NGS) is used, enabling more precise analysis and better detection of resistance mutations.

Which genes are analysed in the HIV drug-resistance sequencing test?

The genes analysed are reverse transcriptase, protease and integrase.

How long does it take for the results to become available?

The total turnaround time for the results may be up to 30 days.

For more information on result turnaround times, please consult our analysis catalogue available here.

 

 

How are the results interpreted?

The results are interpreted using international reference databases (including Stanford HIVdb). A detailed medical report is sent to the prescribing doctor.

Visit the LNS

Is it possible to visit the LNS?

Yes. The LNS regularly organises educational visits for Luxembourgish secondary school students, as well as visits for professional associations.

The LNS also opens its doors to the general public as part of the “Dat ka Lëtzebuerg” Open Days, held every September. The LNS participates occasionally. Dates and participation details are communicated on our website and social media channels.

Who can take part in school visits at the LNS and how can a visit be arranged?

School visits are reserved for Luxembourgish secondary schools.

You can find all the practical information on this page, including the visit programme and the request form.

Please note that submitting the form constitutes a request, not a booking. After reviewing your application, you will receive a response by email as soon as possible.

Which associations can visit the LNS and how can a visit be arranged?

Any association with a direct or indirect link to healthcare or to the LNS’s areas of expertise may request a visit by email at myvisit@lns.etat.lu, specifying:

• the name of the association;
• its field of activity;
• the purpose of the visit;
• the number of participants.

How long does a visit last?

The average duration of a visit is approximately 2 hours.

In which languages are the visits conducted?

Visits can be organised in French, German, Luxembourgish or English, depending on the availability of our staff.

How do you create your regify account?

Go to regify.esante.lu

• Click “Sign up now”.
• Complete your identification details and click “Register”.

For a medical practice

If you work in a medical practice where your email address is shared by several physicians, you can use the same address to create a single regify account that can host several regiboxes (one per physician) with each laboratory.

 

Where and how can you download regibox?

Regibox is available on Windows, OS X, Linux, iOS, and Android.

• Go to regify.esante.lu.
• Click “Download”.
• Click “Download regibox manager”. Make sure to select the appropriate version by clicking “Other downloads” to display the complete list

How do you log in to regibox?

• To log in to regibox, you must first create a regify account on regify.esante.lu and activate it.
• Open regibox.
• Enter the login details received when you created your account.
• Click “Login” to confirm.
• A regibox management window opens. You can close it by clicking the X.

How do you open a regibox with the LNS?

After completing the Laboratory Results Exchange Request Form via Regibox :

• You will receive a regibox invitation by email from the LNS with the subject “regibox invitation for…”.
• Open the regibox_xxxx.rgbx file attached to this email with regibox.
• A regibox invitation window opens. Click “Accept”.
• Your regibox has now been created.

 

How can you access LNS test reports?

You can view LNS test reports directly from your computer’s file explorer.

Reports are available in PDF format. They are systematically accompanied by an XML metadata file that can be used to automatically integrate LNS reports into your patient management software.

Some patient management software providers have already made their tools compatible so that LNS reports can be integrated automatically. Please contact your provider to check compatibility.

What does the LuxTrust seal mean?

The “LuxTrust Data Integrity Guarantee” seal affixed to each document shared via Regibox guarantees the integrity and authenticity of the data and certifies its origin. This seal provides a legal guarantee that the electronic data exchanged was signed by a specific person at a specific time and that the document has not been altered since.

To view all this LuxTrust information in the test report of your choice, click the “LuxTrust Data Integrity Guarantee” seal. Further information is available by clicking “Signature properties”.

Who should you contact in case of problems?

If you experience problems using regibox, please contact the eHealth Agency HelpDesk from 8:00 to 17:00.

Email : helpdesk@esante.lu
Tel : +352 27 12 50 18 33
Website : www.esante.lu

For any request for assistance and support that can be provided by the LNS, please contact: elab@lns.etat.lu

How can you terminate the exchange of laboratory results via regibox?

You may terminate the exchange of laboratory results via regibox at any time by downloading the exchange termination form, completing it, and returning it duly signed by email to elab@lns.etat.lu.

Is anonymous testing free?

Yes. Anonymous testing is completely free of charge at the LNS.