Different pre‐analytical techniques and the results of 50 g oral glucose challenge tests

Abstract

Accurate measurement of plasma glucose has consequential results for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus regarding the different cut-off levels of several diagnostic criteria. Ex vivo glycolysis continues in blood sample tubes until analysis, and this process is affected from the duration until analysis, immediate centrifugation and the room temperature. 1,2 These factors cause a time-dependent decrease in the plasma glucose levels until analysis.The efficacy of additives to inhibit glycolysis in blood tubes has been previously investigated but a limited effect on stabilization of blood glucose was reported. 1,3 Sodium fluoride (NaF) in combination with potassium oxalate (KOx) as an additive