What does EDTA stand for in laboratory terms?

In laboratory terms, EDTA stands for Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid. This compound is widely used as an anticoagulant in blood collection tubes for various laboratory tests because it effectively binds calcium ions in the blood, which helps prevent clotting. This property makes it particularly valuable for preserving whole blood and plasma samples during analysis, allowing for accurate test results. The chemical structure of EDTA, with its ability to chelate and sequester metal ions, contributes to its effectiveness in laboratory settings, especially in hematology and blood banking. Its usage is well-established and recognized in clinical and research laboratories for ensuring sample integrity.