Evaluation of three different specimen types (serum, plasma lithium heparin and serum gel separator) for analysis of certain analytes: clinical significance of differences in results and efficiency in use.

摘要: Background There is a lack of consensus regarding the most appropriate specimen type for analysis many biochemistry analytes. The aim this study was to compare renal and lipid analyte profiles phenytoin values in plain serum (S), gel (G) plasma (lithium heparin, P) tubes investigate stability these analytes after prolonged contact with cells or at room temperature (RT, 20 degrees C) as aliquoted stored 4 C. Methods Primary specimens were centrifuged once, maintained RT analysed within 2 h (T(0)) 24 (T(24)) 48 (T(48)). For assessment C, two cell-free aliquots separated from each primary C then T(24) T(48). Differences concentrations between T(0) following storage (at T(48)) evaluated both statistical clinical significance. Results At all analytes, except potassium, demonstrated equivalence serum, tubes. Potassium creatinine more stable than serum/plasma In contrast, phentytoin up T(48) RT, but showed progressive clinically significant decrease concentration RT. All CO(2) when Conclusions We concluded that tube has advantages over measurement investigated study, exception phenytoin. practice, demonstrate enhanced reduce need aliquot specimens, greater protection against possible contamination. Further investigation would be required evaluate broader range