Effects of contamination of blood specimens with liquid potassium-EDTA anticoagulant

Abstract

Background: Use of the anticoagulant EDTA, in high-concentration liquid form, in blood collection tubes can lead to cross-contamination of routine biochemistry specimens. Methods: In the present study, tests affected by EDTA in the sample were potassium, calcium, magnesium, unsaturated iron-binding capacity, bicarbonate, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, alkaline phosphatase and amylase. The likely mechanisms are discussed. Conclusions: In the interests of best practice, the identification of subtle contamination of blood specimens for biochemical analysis requires a sensitive method for measurement of EDTA itself.