Trace Element and Micronutrient Unit
Scotland's specialised laboratory for trace elements and vitamins in health and disease
Micronutrient Monitoring Service
Full Micronutrient Screen - Sample Requirements
If you use the Vacutainer or Greiner system, we require:-
- One special (navy blue top) sodium heparin or plain tube for trace elements.
- One lithium heparin tube (green top) or Trace Metal sodium heparin tube for vitamins. For Vitamin C analysis special sample preparation is required if the sample cannot reach the laboratory within 24 hours
If you use the Sarstedt or other system, we require:-
- Two lithium heparin tubes. Monovettes or 2 ml paediatric tubes are suitable. Do not use gel separator tubes.
If possible, separate the cells from the plasma in the first tube using a plastic pasteur pipette. Alternatively, arrange for the samples to get to our laboratory within 24 h. The second tube should not be separated. Store samples at 4 - 10 °C. Do not freeze.
|
Sample component |
Used for |
|
Plasma |
Selenium, zinc, copper, vitamins A, E and B6 |
|
Whole blood |
Manganese, vitamins B1 and B2, glutathione peroxidase |
Sending samples
Samples can be mailed at ambient temperature by first class mail. Samples need to be handled in our laboratory within 48 h for vitamin B1 analysis. Please do not therefore send samples on a Friday. Please ensure samples are sent in mailing containers or sealed in plastic bags and are adequately protected for transit (e.g. by a padded envelope)
Send to:
Micronutrient Monitoring Service
Department of Clinical Biochemistry
P.O.Box 508
Glasgow
G31 2EZ