We have samples from patients, but they are not well marked, and therefore we are not sure if they are serum or plasma samples? Is there a simple test to distinguish between these? We have though about adding CaCl2 or thrombin at 37 degrees and if the the sample clots we know it is plasma, but we are unsure if some serum samples might contain traces of clotting factors and thus provide us with a false positive answer.
Does anyone have a test for distinguishing plasma and serum samples?
You can run sample through haematology analyzer. If the samples are not centrifuged at higher g, the plasma might show high WBCs/Platelets relative to serum samples.
Dear the best thing is to identify coagulation factors if present to distinguish the two samples.
Assuming you have spun and separated samples , plasma contains fibrinogen and serum should not. Run a fibrinogen assay. The real question is , what is your intention for these samples after you have worked out serum or plasma.
The correct way is to check the presence or absenco of Fibrinogen. You have to use a coagulometer. The serum is absolutely free of Fibrinogen, then You must use a coagulometer and dose the fibrinogen with Clauss method, just like you wrote in your question.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry