(BURLINGTON) -- Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings reported third quarter net earnings of $134.3 million and earnings per diluted share of $1.31. This compared with $140 million, or $1.34 per share during the same period last year. This latest quarterly report exceeded analysts expectations.

The Burlington-base diagnostic company reported third quarter operating income of $239.4 million. The Company recorded restructuring and other special charges of $24.1 million during the third quarter. These charges included $7.9 million in net severance and other personnel costs along with $16.2 million in net facility-related costs primarily associated with the ongoing integration of Genzyme Genetics, Westcliff and Clearstone.

“We delivered another quarter of solid revenue and volume growth, made significant progress on our acquisition integration activities and achieved strong earnings,” said David P. King, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

LabCorp's net earnings were $384.3 million and earnings per diluted share were $3.76 in the first nine months of 2011.