Dried Blood Spots Requirements

Dried blood spots (DBS) are not accepted if the patient has ever received an allogeneic bone marrow/stem cell transplant. For these patients, DNA from cultured fibroblasts is the required specimen type. GeneDx can provide a punch biopsy kit and can culture fibroblasts on site, as needed.

For best results, send 8 spots per person, of 10mm diameter, completely filled. If 8 spots are not available, send as many as possible to reduce the chance of incomplete or delayed results. Minimum 2.

Label with the patient name plus a second identifier such as date of birth, specimen ID or medical record number. Name and 2nd identifier on the specimen label must match what is on the test order.

The blood on the DBS cards should dry at room temperature for at least 3 hours after collection.

Dried blood spots will be rejected if submitted for any test for which DBS is not listed as an alternative specimen, if there is insufficient volume, or if the patient has had an allogeneic bone marrow transplant.