What is the final dilution and dilution factor of a serum sample prepared by mixing 0.4 mL serum with 2.4 mL saline (Sodium Chloride Solution) and 1.6 mL reagents?

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Calculation of Serum Dilution and Dilution Factor

The final dilution of the serum sample is 1:11, and the dilution factor is 11.

Calculation Method

To determine the final dilution and dilution factor of a serum sample, we need to analyze the components of the mixture and calculate the ratio of serum to total volume.

Step 1: Identify the Components

  • Serum volume: 0.4 mL
  • Saline volume: 2.4 mL
  • Reagents volume: 1.6 mL

Step 2: Calculate the Total Volume

Total volume = Serum + Saline + Reagents Total volume = 0.4 mL + 2.4 mL + 1.6 mL = 4.4 mL

Step 3: Calculate the Dilution

Dilution is expressed as the ratio of serum to total volume:

  • Dilution = 1:Total volume/Serum volume
  • Dilution = 1:4.4/0.4 = 1:11

Step 4: Calculate the Dilution Factor

The dilution factor is the denominator in the dilution ratio:

  • Dilution factor = Total volume/Serum volume
  • Dilution factor = 4.4/0.4 = 11

Understanding Dilution Calculations

When working with laboratory dilutions, it's important to understand that:

  • The dilution (1:11) represents the ratio of the original sample to the final solution
  • The dilution factor (11) represents how many times more dilute the final solution is compared to the original sample
  • In clinical laboratory settings, this information is crucial for interpreting test results and calculating the actual concentration of analytes in the original sample

Clinical Application

In clinical laboratory practice, dilution calculations are essential for:

  • Preparing samples for analysis when the concentration of an analyte exceeds the analytical measurement range
  • Interpreting immunoassay results where antibody titers are reported
  • Preparing reagents and standards for analytical procedures
  • Calculating the actual concentration of an analyte in the original sample by multiplying the measured concentration by the dilution factor

This calculation follows standard laboratory dilution principles as outlined in clinical laboratory guidelines 1.

References

1
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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