Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Fluoride Oxalate Plasma

Minimum volume required

80 µL serum/plasma

Special requirements

Sample must be collected on ice and transported to laboratory for centrifugation within 30 minutes of collection.

Patient preparation

Patients should not clench and unclench hands before or during phlebotomy. Specimens should be obtained without the use of a tourniquet or immediately after the tourniquet has been applied. If there is any delay in obtaining the specimen or if the initial draw is unsuccessful, the tourniquet should be removed and the blood should be allowed to circulate for at least two minutes before trying again.

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours. The test can be ordered as an urgent request.

Reference range

<16 years: 0.6 – 2.5 mmol/L. (Source: Pathology Harmony Recommendations) Adults: 0.5 – 2.2 mmol/L (Source: Abbott Diagnostics)

Clinical guidance

Lactate is mainly requested to help detect and measure the severity of low levels of oxygen in the body (hypoxia) and lactic acidosis. Please refer to LabTestsOnlineUK to learn more about lactate. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/lactate

Notes