Effects of temperature and duration of sample storage on the haematological characteristics of western grey kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus)

• Published in: Australian veterinary journal 2006-04, Vol.84 (4), p.143-147
• Main Authors: HULME-MOIR, KL, CLARK, P., SPENCER, PBS
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Blood Specimen Collection - methods; Blood Specimen Collection - veterinary; Female; Hematologic Tests - standards; Hematologic Tests - veterinary; Macropodidae - blood; Male; Specimen Handling - methods; Specimen Handling - veterinary; Temperature; Time Factors
• ISSN: 0005-0423; 1751-0813
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2006.tb13400.x

Objective To investigate the effects of storage duration and temperature on haematological analyses performed on blood from the western grey kangaroo (Macropus fuliginosis). Method Blood samples from five western grey kangaroos were stored at 4°C, 24°C and 36°C. Each sample was analysed haematologically over a 5‐day period. Results The blood samples maintained optimal stability at 4°C. At this temperature the haematological values remained essentially unchanged for the duration of the study, while samples stored at 36°C and 24°C showed significant changes in some haematological measures by 12 h and 48 h, respectively. Disturbances in leukocyte morphology were evident, to varying degrees, in all samples. Conclusions Blood samples from macropodids should be tested within 48 h of collection if stored at a room temperature of about 24°C. Where testing is to be delayed for more than 48 h, samples should be refrigerated as soon as possible. Exposure of samples to heat in excess of 24°C should be avoided at all times.