Influence of Anticoagulants on the Nitroblue Tetrazolium Test

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Abstract
The influence of anticoagulants on the nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) test in neutrophils from 12 patients with bacterial infections and 40 healthy individuals has been examined. Calcium-binding anticoagulants caused a marked inhibition of formazan formation, making the test useless. 10 IU heparin per ml blood significantly facilitated the differentiation between patients and controls, compared to 100 and 500 IU heparin. Endotoxin stimulation of the neutrophils did not alter this influence of heparin on the test. Standardization of the NBT test with 10 IU heparin per ml blood should increase the applicability of the test as a diagnostic aid.