Which type of specimen must be protected from light?

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Multiple Choice

Which type of specimen must be protected from light?

Light exposure can alter bilirubin levels in certain specimens, so they must be protected from light. Bilirubin is photolabile—when it’s exposed to light, it degrades into other compounds such as biliverdin, which changes the measured value. Amniotic fluid is commonly analyzed for bilirubin to help assess fetal well-being, and accurate results depend on preserving the true bilirubin concentration. Keeping the sample in darkness during collection, transport, and storage prevents photodegradation and ensures the measurement reflects the actual bilirubin level. The other listed specimens are not routinely required to be shielded from light for standard tests, so this specific handling is not as critical for them.

Light exposure can alter bilirubin levels in certain specimens, so they must be protected from light. Bilirubin is photolabile—when it’s exposed to light, it degrades into other compounds such as biliverdin, which changes the measured value. Amniotic fluid is commonly analyzed for bilirubin to help assess fetal well-being, and accurate results depend on preserving the true bilirubin concentration. Keeping the sample in darkness during collection, transport, and storage prevents photodegradation and ensures the measurement reflects the actual bilirubin level. The other listed specimens are not routinely required to be shielded from light for standard tests, so this specific handling is not as critical for them.

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