Why Is Citrate Used in Blood Collection Tubes? Learn About Its Role and Benefits
Summary
- Citrate is commonly used in blood collection tubes because it acts as an Anticoagulant by binding to calcium ions, preventing blood from clotting.
- The most commonly used citrate in blood collection tubes is Sodium Citrate, which is non-toxic and does not affect blood cell morphology or function.
- Citrate is also used in blood collection tubes for the purpose of plasma separation and storage, as it helps maintain the stability of certain proteins and enzymes in the blood sample.
Introduction
When you go to the doctor for a blood test, you may have noticed that the blood is collected into tubes that are often colored differently. One of the common additives used in blood collection tubes is citrate. But why is citrate used in blood collection tubes? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the use of citrate in blood collection tubes and its role in preserving blood samples for testing.
What is Citrate?
Citrate is a salt or ester of citric acid, which is naturally found in citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges. It is commonly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries for various purposes due to its chelating properties and ability to form complexes with metal ions.
Role of Citrate in Blood Collection Tubes
When blood is drawn from a patient for testing, it is essential to prevent the blood from clotting to obtain accurate results. Clotting can alter the composition of the blood sample and interfere with various tests, leading to inaccurate results. Citrate acts as an Anticoagulant in blood collection tubes by binding to calcium ions, which are necessary for the clotting cascade to occur. By chelating calcium ions, citrate prevents the blood from clotting and ensures that the sample remains in a liquid state for testing.
Types of Citrate Used in Blood Collection Tubes
The most commonly used citrate in blood collection tubes is Sodium Citrate. Sodium Citrate is preferred for its effectiveness as an anticoagulant, non-toxicity, and compatibility with a wide range of blood tests. It does not affect blood cell morphology or function, making it suitable for use in clinical laboratories. Other citrate salts, such as potassium citrate and citric acid, may also be used in specific types of blood collection tubes.
Plasma Separation and Storage
In addition to its Anticoagulant properties, citrate is also used in blood collection tubes for the purpose of plasma separation and storage. After the blood is drawn into the tubes containing citrate, it is centrifuged to separate the plasma from the cellular components of the blood. The plasma can then be collected and used for various tests, such as measuring glucose levels, cholesterol, and coagulation studies. Citrate helps maintain the stability of certain proteins and enzymes in the plasma, ensuring accurate Test Results.
Benefits of Using Citrate in Blood Collection Tubes
- Prevents blood clotting: Citrate effectively prevents blood from clotting by chelating calcium ions, ensuring that the blood sample remains in a liquid state for testing.
- Non-toxic and safe: Sodium Citrate, the most commonly used citrate in blood collection tubes, is non-toxic and does not affect the quality of the blood sample or the accuracy of Test Results.
- Facilitates plasma separation: Citrate aids in plasma separation and storage, allowing for the accurate analysis of various blood components and Biomarkers.
- Stability of proteins and enzymes: Citrate helps maintain the stability of proteins and enzymes in the blood sample, ensuring the reliability of Test Results over time.
Conclusion
Citrate is an essential component of blood collection tubes used in clinical laboratories for various tests and analyses. Its role as an anticoagulant, plasma separator, and stabilizer of proteins and enzymes makes it indispensable in preserving blood samples and obtaining accurate Test Results. The use of citrate in blood collection tubes ensures the quality and reliability of laboratory testing, benefiting both Healthcare Providers and patients.
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