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How Long can we Store Blood Samples: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Dong-Wen Wu1, Yu-Meng Li1, Fen Wang1
1Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
Ebiomedicine
|October 3, 2017
Summary
For reliable clinical testing, store complete blood count (CBC) samples for up to 24 hours, and comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) samples for less than 12 hours. Refrigeration at 4°C improves stability for longer storage periods.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Pathology
- Laboratory Medicine
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Accurate laboratory test results depend on proper sample handling.
- Variations in storage time and temperature can affect analyte stability.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for reliable diagnostic testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of storage duration and temperature on the stability of complete blood count (CBC) and comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) analytes.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for optimal blood sample storage conditions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of multiple databases (PubMed, EMBASE, WOS, etc.) up to May 2017.
- Inclusion of clinical trials using adult whole blood samples.
- Independent data extraction and quality assessment using the MINORS tool.
Main Results:
- Most CBC parameters remained stable for at least 24 hours, with some indices stable up to 3 days.
- Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) analytes, including glucose, electrolytes, and liver enzymes, were stable for only 12 hours at 4°C.
- Room temperature (RT) storage led to decreased stability for CMP analytes.
Conclusions:
- Blood samples for CMP testing should be analyzed within 12 hours to ensure result reliability.
- CBC samples are stable for up to 24 hours at room temperature.
- Refrigeration at 4°C is recommended for longer sample storage to maintain analyte integrity.
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