When a spun hematocrit is done in a lab, it is spun for a particular
length of time and a control specimen is run concurrently in order to
verify that the centrifuge was spinning at the correct speed, etc., at
the time the test was run.  In addition to all of the previously stated
problems with the varying percentages of fat likely to be found in a moms
breastmilk, I would like to know what the acceptable length and speed of
spin is for a crematocrit and what controls would be used to verify
accuracy?  Would it be feasible to run a lipid test on breastmilk and
again, against what standard would it be measured?  Has anyone out there
run a crematocrit and if so, what was the exact procedure?  Any other med
techs out there with thoughts on this?  Personally, outside of research
purposes, I don't see what reason there would be to do it in the first
place.  However, my interest as a tech has been piqued and I have access
to the equipment necessary to run them.  Input anyone?

Sharon Knorr, BSMT, LLLL, IBCLC
Lactation Consultant Services
Rochester, New York
mailto:[log in to unmask]

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