How should blood specimens be stored prior to testing?

Storing blood specimens at 2-8 degrees Celsius is essential for maintaining the integrity of the samples until they are analyzed. This temperature range is optimal for preserving the stability of various biochemical components within the blood, preventing hemolysis and degradation of cells, proteins, and enzymes that could alter test results.

Many laboratory testing protocols specify this temperature range to ensure that the specimens remain viable for accurate analysis. If blood specimens are stored outside this recommended temperature range, there can be significant impacts on the quality of the samples, leading to unreliable or erroneous results.

For example, storing blood at room temperature may allow for the breakdown of certain analytes, while freezing can cause the formation of ice crystals, which could rupture cells or alter the properties of serum components. Therefore, 2-8 degrees Celsius is the most appropriate and widely accepted storage condition for blood specimens prior to testing.