OBJECTIVES: We studied the stability of 33 analytes related to clinical chemistry, bone, and vitamin metabolism, after storage in serum separator tubes (SST). DESIGN AND METHODS: Blood was collected from 6 subjects using SST tubes. Some serum remained in the tube in contact with the barrier gel and was stored at -80 degrees C for 12 mo. RESULTS: Clinically significant changes occurred only in 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and retinol-binding protein. CONCLUSIONS: Freezing SST tubes before sample analysis is a viable option for some analytes.
OBJECTIVES: We studied the stability of 33 analytes related to clinical chemistry, bone, and vitamin metabolism, after storage in serum separator tubes (SST). DESIGN AND METHODS: Blood was collected from 6 subjects using SST tubes. Some serum remained in the tube in contact with the barrier gel and was stored at -80 degrees C for 12 mo. RESULTS: Clinically significant changes occurred only in 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and retinol-binding protein. CONCLUSIONS: Freezing SST tubes before sample analysis is a viable option for some analytes.