Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a recognised complication of Heparin anticoagulant therapy. It is an immune mediated disorder with antibodies being produced against a Platelet Factor 4/Heparin (PF4/Hep) complex. This occurs typically 5 days after starting Heparin therapy and presents as a falling platelet count which may develop into a thrombotic disorder with high morbidity as the platelets clump together and generate diffuse thromboses. Suspected patients may need to be switched to an alternative anti-coagulant whilst the results of testing are obtained.
The HIT screening test is a rapid Automated Chemiluminescence assay which has similar sensitivity and specificity to the ELISA assay.
Specimen container paediatric:
Citrated Platelet Poor plasma (Light Blue), or serum (no anticoagulant), for the serum tube we can use RED or Yellow (GEL) tubes
Specimen container adult:
Citrated Platelet Poor plasma (Light Blue), or serum (no anticoagulant), for the serum tube we can use RED or Yellow (GEL) tubes
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5mL
Minimum volume adult:
1.0mL
Sample stability:
Both citrated and serum specimens should be centrifuged and separated within 2 hours of collection. Once separated, the serum or citrated plasma is stable at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If delays in testing are expected, separate specimens and freeze at -35oC or below.
Transport requirements:
Samples should be transported to Blood Sciences at RVI without delay
Freq analysis:
On request
Add on test :
[email protected] (external)
Quality assurance:
UKNEQAS BC
Reference ranges:
Negative = <1 U/mL
Other info:
Screening procedure for heparin induced thrombocytopenia.