Collect
C3NEF - Serum from a plain red top is the only acceptable sample type. Gel barrier tubes are not acceptable.
CIC – Plasma from a lavender top (EDTA) tube is the only acceptable sample type. Mix sample thoroughly.
C1QAB – Serum from a plain red top is the only acceptable sample type. Gel barrier tubes are not acceptable.
Specimen Preparation
C3NEF - 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 serum, frozen
CIC – Centrifuge at room temp within one half hour of collection; preferably immediately after venipuncture. Transfer the cell-free plasma to a clean tube and immediately freeze the cell-free plasma on dry ice or at -70°C.
Preferred volume: 1 mL plasma, frozen
C1QAB – 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 serum, frozen
Pediatric Collection
C3NEF - 250 µL serum, frozen
CIC – 250 µL plasma, frozen
C1QAB – 250 µL serum, frozen
Unacceptable Conditions
Thawed specimens
Storage Transport Temp
C3NEF, CIC - Send frozen serum/plasma Priority Overnight via FedEx and in a well insulated container on dry ice.
C1QAB – Send frozen serum Priority Overnight via FedEx and in a well insulated container on dry ice.
Stability
Frozen at -70°C: 1 year
Notes
This panel includes the following components: C3NEF, CIC, C1QAB