Collect
Serum from a plain red top is the only acceptable sample type.
Gel barrier tubes are not acceptable.
Specimen Preparation
Allow blood to clot at room temp for 20 to 30 minutes. Centrifuge to thoroughly remove cells and immediately transfer cell-free serum to a fresh tube and freeze the cell-free serum on dry ice or at -70°C.
Preferred volume: 1 mL
Pediatric Collection
Minimum volume: 250 µL serum, frozen
Unacceptable Conditions
Thawed specimen.
Storage Transport Temp
Send frozen serum Priority Overnight via FedEx and in a well insulated container on dry ice.
Stability
Frozen at -70°C: 1 year