Sending Samples

Sample Preparation & Requisition Completion

• CSF (3 mL recommended): Send in sterile tube.
• Serum (0.5 – 1.0 mL): Draw blood and collect in a Gold or Red BD Vacutainer® tube for serum collection. Allow blood to clot at room temperature (may require 30 min or more). After clotting, centrifuge at 1000 x g for 10 min at 4°C. Aliquot serum immediately while avoiding red blood cells / blood clot. Note: ACD plasma can be tested although serum is preferred.
• Plasma (for Cytokine and Immune Biomarkers – minimum 1 mL): Draw blood and collect in a Lavender / Purple BD Vacutainer® tube for plasma (EDTA) collection. Gently invert the tube to mix, then centrifuge at 1000 x g for 10 min at 4°C. Aliquot plasma immediately while avoiding red blood cells.
• Please make sure all tube caps or closures are tight and will not leak; we highly recommend that non-screw cap closures be secured with Parafilm to prevent leaks.
• Samples must be accompanied by a Mitogen Dx requisition and must include the following information:
  • Patient full name,
  • Patient date of birth,
  • Patient PHN,
  • Collection date and time,
  • Referring lab contact information (including fax number and email address), and
  • Tests requested.