Variations in serum glucose, urea, creatinine and sodium and potassium as a consequence of delayed transport/processing of samples and delay in assays.
Author(s): Joshi AR
Publication: JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc, 2006, Vol. 45, Page 186-9
PubMed ID: 17160095 PubMed Review Paper? No
Purpose of Paper
The purpose of this paper was to determine the effects of storing whole blood for 3 or 24 h before centrifugation on levels of glucose, potassium, urea, creatinine and sodium in serum.
Conclusion of Paper
Serum glucose concentrations declined by 15.8% and 44.8% when blood was stored for 3 or 24 hours before centrifugation, respectively. Serum potassium levels were not significantly affected by a 3 h delay in blood processing, but the authors report a significant increase in potassium when centrifugation was delayed for 24 h. The authors report that levels of urea, creatinine and sodium were not significantly affected by delayed centrifugation.
Studies
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Study Purpose
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of storing whole blood for 3 or 24 h before centrifugation on levels of glucose, potassium, urea, creatinine and sodium in serum. Blood specimens were obtained from 50 patients, but diagnosis was not specified. All blood analysis was done by manual methods. While the authors state changes were significant, P-values were not presented.
Summary of Findings:
Serum glucose concentrations declined by an average of 15.8% (range 8-24%) and 44.8% (range 10-60%) when blood was stored for 3 or 24 hours before centrifugation, respectively. Serum potassium levels were not significantly affected by a 3 h delay in blood processing, but the authors report a significant increase in potassium when centrifugation was delayed for 24 h (magnitude unclear). The authors report that levels of urea, creatinine and sodium were not significantly affected by delayed centrifugation.
Biospecimens
Preservative Types
- None (Fresh)
Diagnoses:
- Not specified
Platform:
Analyte Technology Platform Carbohydrate Colorimetric assay Electrolyte/Metal Ion selective electrode Small molecule Colorimetric assay Pre-analytical Factors:
Classification Pre-analytical Factor Value(s) Storage Time at room temperature 0 h
3 h
24 h
Biospecimen Aliquots and Components Centrifugation Centrifugation delays investigated