Which preanalytical factor is associated with falsely increased phosphate results?

Prepare for the CAMLPR Chemistry Test. Enhance your understanding with interactive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and readiness for exam success!

Multiple Choice

Which preanalytical factor is associated with falsely increased phosphate results?

Phosphate is largely inside cells, especially red blood cells. If the blood sample is hemolyzed, red cells burst and release their intracellular phosphate into the plasma, causing the measured phosphate level to rise falsely. That’s why the preanalytical factor linked to a spurious high phosphate result is hemolysis. Using a heparinized tube helps collect plasma with fewer clotting steps and can reduce handling that might promote hemolysis, making it the practical way to minimize this issue. In contrast, keeping the sample on ice or exposing it to light doesn’t drive phosphate up, and EDTA can interfere with assay chemistry rather than specifically causing a true, hemolysis-related increase.

Phosphate is largely inside cells, especially red blood cells. If the blood sample is hemolyzed, red cells burst and release their intracellular phosphate into the plasma, causing the measured phosphate level to rise falsely. That’s why the preanalytical factor linked to a spurious high phosphate result is hemolysis. Using a heparinized tube helps collect plasma with fewer clotting steps and can reduce handling that might promote hemolysis, making it the practical way to minimize this issue. In contrast, keeping the sample on ice or exposing it to light doesn’t drive phosphate up, and EDTA can interfere with assay chemistry rather than specifically causing a true, hemolysis-related increase.

More practice questions