A-382 Evaluation of the Labcorp TrueSpinTM for Decentralized Blood Sample Centrifugation

Abstract

Abstract Background The increased demand for decentralized blood sample collection presents numerous operational challenges for diagnostics providers. Sample degradation including sample hemolysis due to time, temperature, and handling between collection and laboratory analysis leads to limited test menus and unreliable results. Here we evaluate the light-weight, portable Labcorp TrueSpin™ for rapid point-of-care blood separation using commercially available microvolume blood collection tubes. The TrueSpin is a class I FDA registered device designed for layperson use. The centrifuge runs on AA batteries and separates a blood sample in five minutes. Methods Here we show results of studies evaluating sample quality and analyte stability in serum samples collected into gel microtubes and processed using the TrueSpin. Hemolysis and residual red blood cell (RBC) concentration are compared between samples separated using the TrueSpin and conventional centrifugation. Additionally, we evaluate serum-based chemistry analyte stability in both separated and unseparated samples stored for three days refrigerated and unrefrigerated. Results No significant difference was seen in hemolysis or residual RBC concentration in serum samples prepared by TrueSpin compared to the reference centrifuge method. Furthermore, we show that many common serum-based chemistry analytes have limited (<1 day) stability if uncentrifuged, but improve to ≥3-day stability following TrueSpin separation and refrigerated or room temperature storage (see Table 1). Conclusions These findings suggest that the TrueSpin is a simple and effective solution for remote sample separation and may enable broader test menus and increased test result reliability for decentralized sample collection pursuits.