Effects of time of collection and sample processing on von Willebrand factor concentration in retired racing greyhounds.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Concentrations of von Willebrand factor (vWF) are less than 30% in approximately 10% of Greyhounds. HYPOTHESIS: That sample collection, processing, and storage can affect the concentration of vWF in plasma of Greyhounds. ANIMALS: Nineteen healthy former racing Greyhounds. METHODS: Prospective study: Blood samples were obtained from the jugular vein of dogs at 4 times during the day. Samples were divided and processed in each of 3 ways. The 1st tube was centrifuged immediately, the 2nd tube was kept in a household refrigerator, and the 3rd tube was kept at room temperature for 3 hours before centrifugation and processing. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the vWF concentration between different sample storage and processing (P = 5.31). There was no statistically significant diurnal variation in vWF concentration in the samples evaluated (P = .37). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Time of sample collection and short-term storage temperature do not influence the vWF concentration in retired racing Greyhounds.