Avoid hemolysis. Erythrocytes contain proteases which degrade Osteocalcin. Centrifuge specimens immediately.
EDTA plasma preferred specimen for analysis.
EDTA plasma samples stable 2 days at 15-25C, 3 days at 2-8C, 3 mths at -20C. Feeze only once.
Serum levels reflect the extent of laying down of bone matrix. Useful in monitoring when this is affected by disease or drug therapy. |