This test is available to outreach clients only and is not for use by Allina Health facilities.

Biotin supplements may cause clinically significant interference for this test assay. If interference is suspected, it is strongly recomended that biotin is discontinued for at least one week prior to retesting. 

Lt green plasma separator (PST)

Immediately following collection, mix sample thoroughly by gently inverting 8 - 10, times to prevent clotting

1. Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection
2. If the specimen will not reach the Central Laboratory within 12 hours of collection, transfer plasma to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL), labelled as Li hep plasma and freeze

Lt green plasma separator tube (PST) tube

False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL)

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

Immediately following collection, thoroughly mix sample by gently inverting 5 times

1. Allow sample to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes
2. Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection
3. If the specimen will not reach the Central Laboratory within 12 hours of collection, transfer serum to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL), labelled as serum and freeze

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL)

Refrigerate - 12 hours*

* Transfer plasma or serum to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL) and freeze if sample will not reach the Central lab within 12 hours

Frozen (preferred) - 3 months

Refrigerated - 12 hours

Ambient - 5 hours

• Improper labels (unlabeled or mislabeled)
• Hemolysis (some procedures)
• Improper anticoagulant or ratio
• Delay in transport
• Improper storage temperature affecting results
• Improper container
• Leaking container resulting in compromised specimen
• Quantity not sufficient (QNS)

Electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA)

Male : <7.80 ng/ml

Female: <4.30 ng/ml