Sample Collection
Preferences for Sample Collection, Serum or Plasma
| Test |
Serum
(red top)
|
EDTA Plasma
(purple top) |
Comments |
| T4 |
Yes |
Yes |
Avoid Glass ? |
| T3 |
Yes |
No |
Lipemia Interferes |
| Cortisol |
Yes |
Yes, preferred |
Ship cold
(if serum) |
| Free T4 |
Yes |
No |
|
| TSH |
Yes |
No |
|
| Insulin |
Yes |
No |
No hemoysis
Ship cold |
| Endogenous ACTH |
No |
Yes |
Needs trasylol (aprotinin)
No hemolysis
Ship cold |
| Generally, avoid heparin |
|
