Which of the following blood specimen tests are photosensitive and should be protected from light during handling and transportation?

Rationale

Bilirubin is a photosensitive blood specimen test that should be protected from light during handling and transportation.

Bilirubin levels can be significantly affected by exposure to light, leading to inaccurate test results. Protecting bilirubin specimens from light ensures the integrity of the sample and the reliability of the results, which are crucial for diagnosing conditions such as jaundice.

A (Gastrin) YOUR ANSWER

Gastrin is a hormone produced in the stomach that stimulates gastric acid secretion. It is not known to be significantly affected by light exposure, and therefore does not require protection from light during handling and transportation.

B (Ammonia) YOUR ANSWER

Ammonia levels in the blood are also not photosensitive. While ammonia specimens do require careful handling to prevent changes in concentration, they do not need to be shielded from light, as light does not impact the stability of ammonia in the sample.

C (Pyruvate) YOUR ANSWER

Pyruvate is a key intermediate in several metabolic pathways and is stable under normal laboratory conditions. Similar to ammonia, pyruvate does not exhibit photosensitivity and does not require light protection during transport.

D (Bilirubin) CORRECT

Bilirubin is highly sensitive to light, which can lead to its degradation and false low results if exposed. Light can break down bilirubin, thus necessitating that samples be wrapped in aluminum foil or placed in dark containers to safeguard their accuracy during testing.

Conclusion

Among the listed blood specimen tests, bilirubin is the only one that is photosensitive and must be shielded from light to maintain its integrity. The other tests—gastrin, ammonia, and pyruvate—do not exhibit this sensitivity, making light protection unnecessary for their accurate analysis. Proper handling of bilirubin specimens is essential for reliable diagnostic outcomes.

Which of the following blood specimen tests are photosensitive and should be protected from light during handling and transportation?

Bilirubin is a photosensitive blood specimen test that should be protected from light during handling and transportation.

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