A blood specimen is received in the laboratory for a PCR assay to detect cytomegalovirus (a DNA virus) on a Wednesday night. The PCR assay will not be performed until the next Monday morning. How should this specimen be stored to maintain the integrity of the nucleic acid prior to analysis?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The specimen should be stored at -20°C to maintain the integrity of the nucleic acid prior to analysis. Lyzing RBCs and centrifugation are not necessary for this task. Whole blood should not be stored at room temperature, as that can lead to degradation of the nucleic acids. Refrigeration at 4°C is another option, but it is not as ideal as -20°C storage.

A Blood Specimen Is Received in the Laboratory for a PCR