Which anticoagulant is known for best preserving coagulation factors?

Sodium citrate is recognized for its superior ability to preserve coagulation factors in laboratory settings. It functions effectively as an anticoagulant by binding calcium ions in the blood, which are essential for the coagulation cascade. By sequestering calcium, sodium citrate effectively prevents clot formation, while still maintaining the integrity of the coagulation proteins. This is crucial for various coagulation assays, as it allows for accurate measurement of factors involved in blood coagulation without altering their functional properties.

In contrast, other anticoagulants have different impacts on coagulation factors. Heparin, while useful in clinical scenarios, can influence certain coagulation tests and may interfere with the activity of specific factors. EDTA is primarily used for hematological tests but is less favorable for coagulation assays because it can affect the function of some coagulation factors. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that works as a vitamin K antagonist, inhibiting the synthesis of certain coagulation proteins, which can lead to dynamics that are not suitable for preserving their activity.

Therefore, sodium citrate is preferred when the accurate assessment of coagulation factors is required, making it the best choice for preserving these crucial components in the blood.