EDTA
& Hemostasis Testing
Definition:
EDTA = ethylenediaminetetraacetic
acid
Modes of
action:
Binds free Ca++ which inhibits clotting
Inhibits thrombin conversion of
fibrinogen to fibrin
Binds the Ca++ added in reagents of clot-based tests
Used as
anticoagulant for:
Hematology testing (CBC, platelet
count. Etc)
Special hemostasis testing such as:
Factor V Leiden
Prothrombin 20210A