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 or 37°C for 20 to 60 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