The processing of a sample in a lavender top tube received in the lab at 10 a.m. is delayed because of a sudden fire drill. The sample is processed and analyzed at 2 p.m. Significant findings on this patient include an absolute neutrophil count of 1.5 × 10⁹/L. What can be concluded from this? A) The patient is suffering from a neutropenia that needs to be investigated. B) The delay in testing resulted in a false neutropenia. C) The patient has pseudoneutropenia because of time of day the sample was drawn. D) There is not enough information to draw an accurate conclusion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The delay in testing resulted in a false neutropenia. Neutrophils are known to be unstable cells and can undergo changes when kept at room temperature for extended periods of time. Delayed processing of the sample can cause neutrophil activation and they may break down, leading to a false neutropenia.

The Processing of a Sample in a Lavender Top Tube