Plasma (Fl-EDTA, yellow), sample must be received within 8hr of collection
8hrs
The common cause for increased blood lactate and pyruvate is anoxia resulting from such conditions as shock, pneumonia and congestive heart failure. Lactic acidosis may also occur in renal failure and leukaemia. Thiamine deficiency and diabetic ketoacidosis are associated with increased levels of lactate and pyruvate. Lactate measurements that evaluate the acid-base status are used in the diagnosis and treatment of lactic acidosis (abnormally high acidity in the blood). However, there is currently no widely accepted concentration for the diagnosis of lactic acidosis.
The lactate level increases rapidly with physical exercise. The time required for return to normal lactate values depends on the physical fitness of the subject. 30 minutes at rest is usually sufficient for this purpose. Blood samples should be drawn from a stasis-free vein. However, minimal hemostasis (less than 30 seconds) will not affect lactate levels. Avoid the use of a tourniquet, if possible. Glycolysis in blood samples can rapidly increase lactate levels. Cells contribute to the glycolysis and their quick removal is essential for accurate lactate analysis. Samples should be taken into fluoride-EDTA bottles and the plasma separated from cells within 1hr. Calcium dobesilate causes artificially low lactate results. Glycolate, a metabolite of ethylene glycol, causes a positive interference which is variable from lot to lot of reagent.
**Please note, this information pertains to the analysis performed by the laboratory only**
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