Euglobulin Lysis Time (ELT)
Use
The euglobulin lysis time is a global nonspecific screen of the fibrinolytic system.
Special Instructions
Citrated plasma samples should be collected by double centrifugation using a blue-top tube containing 3.2% buffered sodium citrate. Ensure proper blood to anticoagulant ratio and use plastic transfer pipettes for sample handling. Samples must be frozen immediately after preparation and maintained frozen until testing. Avoid drawing blood from areas with a heparin lock or catheter.
Limitations
This semiquantitative assay has a wide variation in lysis times among healthy individuals which limits its diagnostic potential. Conditions such as hypofibrinogenemia and factor XIII deficiency can cause shortened lysis times due to decreased fibrin or lack of fiber cross-linking, respectively. Factors like traumatic venipuncture, prolonged stasis, or improper sample preparation can invalidate results.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 40454-1
Result Turnaround Time
4-8 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Blue-top (sodium citrate) tube
Collection Instructions
Blood should be collected in a blue-top tube containing 3.2% buffered sodium citrate. Centrifuge for 10 minutes, remove 2/3 of the plasma carefully, transfer to a plastic transport tube, and freeze immediately. Ensure proper sample preparation is maintained.
Patient Preparation
Do not draw from an arm with a heparin lock or heparinized catheter.
Storage Instructions
Freeze.
Causes for Rejection
Severe hemolysis; improper labeling; clotted specimen; specimen diluted with IV fluids; samples thawed in transit; improper sample type; sample out of stability