SPECIMEN PROCESSING and HANDLING

Whole blood samples should be centrifuged within 1 hour after collection or refrigerated for up to 8 hours prior to centrifugation.

After blood is drawn, homocysteine is released from erythrocytes and the concentration will increase at a rate of approximately 1 µmol/L per hour at room temperature.

Handle and store specimens in stoppered containers to avoid contamination and evaporation.