Hormone Stability Testing
Laboratory procedures to evaluate how hormone concentrations change under various storage and transport conditions.
Full Definition
Hormone stability testing involves systematic evaluation of how hormone concentrations in blood or other biological samples change under different pre-analytical conditions such as temperature, time delays, and storage methods. This testing is crucial for establishing proper sample handling protocols and determining acceptable time limits between collection and analysis. Different hormones show varying stability profiles; for example, some peptide hormones degrade rapidly at room temperature, while steroid hormones may be more stable. The testing includes assessment of freeze-thaw cycles, refrigerated storage duration, and the effects of different collection tube types. Results from stability testing inform laboratory protocols, sample rejection criteria, and specimen transport requirements to ensure accurate patient results.
Usage
Usage note: Important for laboratories establishing sample handling protocols and transport logistics.
In Context
- "Hormone stability testing revealed that cortisol samples remained stable for 48 hours at room temperature." — Laboratory validation report
- "The laboratory's hormone stability testing protocols ensure reliable results for remote collection sites." — Laboratory procedure manual