Vortexing specimens to disaggregate platelet clumps in EDTA specimens.

Objective: To compare platelet count results of specimens that yield platelet clump flags to platelet count results on these specimens after vortexing.

Method: Specimens that generated platelet count flags on Sysmex XN 3000 instruments were vortexed and rerun. Only data from specimens demonstrating elimination of platelet clump flags were used in this study. Pearson r analysis was performed on data.

Results: Comparison of complete blood count results (white blood cell count, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet count) all yielded Pearson r scores >0.9.

Conclusion: Additional patient comfort and safety concerns, as well as concerns over additional specimen collection and processing costs, may be avoided by vortexing and rerunning specimens flagged for platelet clumps when the platelet count is normal.