Effect Of Storage Time And Temperature On Platelet Indices Of EDTA Samples

Abstract

Objectives: This study was conducted to find effect of storage time and temperature on platelet indices of samples taken in EDTA. Methods: In this study 100 samples without the specification of gender were included. CBC samples were taken in two EDTA vials from each patient. All the samples were separated in two groups. One sample group was stored at room temperature(RT) and other at 2-6°C. CBC was run on CBC analyzer Sysmex XN-1000 at 0 hours, 4 hours, 12 hours and 24 hours. Results: There was significantly increasing trend for MPV, PDW and P-LCRat RT and decreasing trend at 4°C when compared with 0 hours. PCT showed significant decreasing trend at 4°C with respect to 0 hours. Significant decrease in platelet count was observed after storage at room temperature as well as at 4°C. Conclusion: Although 4°C consider as optimal temperature to transport specimen for CBC but Platelet Indices values varies significantly in comparison to baseline when stored at 4oC and at room temperature. It seems prudent to conclude that if platelet pathology is the major drive for CBC test performance then specimen should be run without delay.