Pseudohyperkalaemia: causes and laboratory result validation

Abstract

Pseudohyperkalaemia refers to an elevation of potassium level in the specimen (in vitro), but a potassium level in the body (in vivo) is normal. This elevation is found without any clinical manifestation.  Pseudohyperkalaemia is a common problem found in clinical laboratory due to the inconsistency of serum potassium with the clinical picture. The focuses of this review are to summarize causes of pseudohyperkalaemia and to propose a guideline for validation of abnormal potassium result.  A high level of awareness is required to manage the risk of misinterpretation and improper patient management.