Collect
Collect in a plain red top or SST
Specimen Preparation
Allow sample to clot at room temperature for 20 to 60 minutes. Centrifuge ASAP to separate serum from cells and aliquot cell-free serum into a labeled polypropylene or similar plastic tube.
Preferred volume: 1 mL serum
Pediatric Collection
Minimum volume: 0.5 mL serum
Unacceptable Conditions
Clotted or hemolyzed samples, plasma
Storage Transport Temp
Send serum Priority Overnight via FedEx and in a well insulated container with an ice pack or frozen on dry ice.
Stability
2-8°C for 48 hours, >1 month at -70°C