What Does It Mean When A Sample Is Hemolyzed?


Edta High Resolution Stock Photography and Images Alamy
Edta High Resolution Stock Photography and Images Alamy from www.alamy.com

Introduction:

When a blood sample is taken, it is sent to the laboratory for testing. Sometimes, the sample may be hemolyzed, which means that the red blood cells have ruptured and released their contents into the plasma. This can affect the accuracy of the test results, and it is important to understand what hemolysis is and what it can mean for your health.

What Causes Hemolysis?

Hemolysis can occur during the process of collecting, handling, or transporting the blood sample. It can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as hemolytic anemia, where the body destroys its own red blood cells. Hemolysis can also occur due to the use of certain medications, such as antibiotics or diuretics.

How Can You Detect Hemolysis?

Hemolysis can be detected by looking at the color of the plasma. If the plasma is pink or red in color, it is likely that the sample is hemolyzed. Another way to detect hemolysis is by measuring the amount of hemoglobin in the plasma. If the hemoglobin levels are elevated, it can indicate that the sample is hemolyzed.

What Are the Effects of Hemolysis?

Hemolysis can affect the accuracy of the test results, as it can release substances into the plasma that can interfere with the testing process. For example, hemolysis can cause falsely elevated levels of potassium, LDH, and bilirubin. It can also cause falsely decreased levels of haptoglobin and iron.

What Tests are Affected by Hemolysis?

Hemolysis can affect a wide range of tests, including blood chemistry tests, blood cell counts, coagulation tests, and drug level tests. It is important to note that different tests have different levels of tolerance for hemolysis, and some tests may be more affected than others.

What Should You Do If Your Sample is Hemolyzed?

If your sample is hemolyzed, your healthcare provider may need to request a new blood sample to be taken. Alternatively, they may choose to interpret the results with caution and take into account the possibility of hemolysis affecting the results.

How Can You Prevent Hemolysis?

To prevent hemolysis, it is important to follow proper collection, handling, and transportation procedures. This includes using the appropriate size needle, avoiding excessive suction during venipuncture, and avoiding agitation of the blood sample during transportation.

Conclusion:

Hemolysis is a common problem in the laboratory, and it can affect the accuracy of the test results. By understanding what hemolysis is and how it can affect your health, you can take steps to prevent it and ensure that your test results are accurate. If you have any concerns about hemolysis or your test results, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Posting Komentar

0 Komentar