Publish date: 1 December 2025
This is a reminder from Liverpool Clinical Laboratories (LCL) of the time-critical requirements for Quantiferon TB (QFT/IGRA) samples to ensure they remain suitable for analysis. Essential pre-analytical steps must be completed promptly on the day of collection for the samples to remain viable.
To support timely processing and minimise avoidable rejections, please ensure the following:
• Samples should reach the laboratory ideally within 3 hours of collection.
• QFT samples cannot currently be receipted at weekends. Do not collect and send samples on weekends.
• Collect samples into two full lithium-heparin tubes.
• Samples from outside the Royal - please avoid collecting after 2pm Monday to Friday to allow sufficient time for transport to the Royal LCL CSSB laboratory.
• All samples must arrive at CSSB by 4.30pm on the day of collection, to avoid rejection.
LCL are working on improving and extending this service in the near future. In the meantime, your support in following the current requirements is greatly appreciated.
If any clinics or wards are unable to meet the above requirements, please contact Medelyn