This collection thoroughly explores the dynamic and ever-developing field of hemostasis and thrombosis diagnostics and research. After an introductory section covering the basics and preanalytical issues, the book continues with in-depth sections that explore how to get the best outcomes from routine coagulation and specialized hemostasis assays, thrombophilia-related techniques, investigations into bleeding disorders, as well as performance of global assays of hemostasis, and finally post-analytical issues in hemostasis and thrombosis testing. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and practical, Hemostasis and Thrombosis: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal resource for researchers and diagnostic laboratories seeking expert guidance and working to identify the best methodologies to pursue hemostasis and thrombosis testing.

Defined as red blood cell break down and the release of hemoglobin and intracellular contents into the plasma, haemolysis can seriously impact patient care as well as the laboratory's reputation through its affect on test results. Therefore, the European Preanalytical Scientific Committee, in collaboration with the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry Working Group on Patient Safety, have designed a questionnaire to collect data on prevalence and management of haemolytic specimens referred to the clinical laboratories for clinical chemistry testing. The new book will help identify the areas where haemolysis occurs most frequently, which can, in turn, guide further analysis about why it is occurring. Once these elements are known, practices and procedures can be implemented to dramatically reduce haemolysis and avoid erroneous laboratory results affecting patient care and increasing laboratory costs.