Aid in determining whether dyspnea is related to acute or worsening heart failure versus shortness of breath unrelated to heart function (such as lung infection or inhalation of a toxic gas).

Testing cannot be added on to a specimen which has been stored at room temperature for more than 4 hours

Lavender (EDTA), 4mL

Immediately after collection, mix tube thoroughly by gentle inversion, 8 - 10 times, to prevent clotting

1. Spin and 
2. Transfer plasma to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL), labeled as EDTA plasma

• Samples stored at room temperature must be spun, separated, and tested within 4 hours of collection
• Samples stored at 2-8 °C must be spun, separated, and tested within 24 hours of collection
• If testing cannot be performed within 24 hours of collection, specimen must be spun, separated and frozen at -20 °C  
  • Due to this limited stability it is preferred the specimen be frozen

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

Frozen - 3 months (preferred)

Refrigerated - 24 hours

Ambient - 4 hours

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

Fluorescence Immunoassay

Male: <100 pg/mL

Female:

<75 yrs: <150 pg/mL

>75 yrs: <265 pg/mL

Medical necessity