Which sample should be rejected for CDC PRA testing?

For complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) panel reactive antibody (PRA) testing, the integrity and composition of the sample are crucial to obtaining reliable and accurate results. The preferred sample type for PRA testing is serum, which can be obtained from serum separator tubes or other appropriate collection tubes that prevent coagulation and maintain the stability of the antibodies.

A plain red top tube is designed to collect serum but lacks the separation mechanism, which might lead to the potential for hemolysis or contamination with cellular material, both of which can negatively impact the assay's outcome. The absence of a serum separation gel ensures that the cells and serum are not separated effectively, risking an unreliable reading of antibody levels during the testing process.

On the other hand, serum separator tubes contain a gel that reduces the likelihood of cellular contamination, while frozen serum aliquots are suitable as they preserve the stability of antibodies for prolonged periods. ACD yellow top tubes contain anticoagulants designed for certain tests but are not ideal for PRA testing, as preliminary handling and timing may affect purity and viability, though they may be acceptable for other uses.

In summary, the plain red top tube is not an appropriate choice for CDC PRA testing due to the lack of mechanisms to ensure the quality and purity of