Hemolysis was observed at room temperature when testing a patient's serum with reagent red cells used for screening.When this test was repeated using the patient's plasma,no hemolysis was observed.What was the most likely explanation for the different reactions?
A) The plasma sample was collected incorrectly.
B) The serum sample was contaminated.
C) Complement activation was inhibited by calcium in the plasma sample.
D) The serum sample was fresher.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Complement can be activated by some red cell antibodies; however,fresh serum samples are necessary to observe this reaction.Plasma samples contain calcium to inhibit the coagulation cascade,which also will inhibit complement activation.

Hemolysis Was Observed at Room Temperature When Testing a Patient's