Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly persistent synthetic chemicals that are now ubiquitous in the environment. Due to PFAS stability leading to its environmental persistence, there is concern regarding potential long-term health effects as PFAS accumulation occurs in humans from dietary and inhalation exposure routes. Chronic exposure may lead to adverse effects such as fertility issues or liver damage. Although a wide range of PFAS have been found in human samples, specifically human serum, there remains data gaps for what PFAS are present in human blood. Recent innovation in detection technology has led to the ability to more accurately screen for ultrashort-chain PFAS levels in human samples. Combined with the current increase in ultrashort chain PFAS levels in the environment, detection and reporting of ultrashort-chain PFAS such as trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) have dramatically increased. However, studies on the potential background contamination of ultrashort chains from manufacturing processes or non- essential additives are limited compared to legacy PFAS. This study collected various tubes used for human blood sampling and tested each tube for PFAS background contamination including TFA, the most challenging ultra-short chain. Findings displayed TFA concentrations in multiple tubes, with no significant concentrations of other PFAS compounds. TFA was found at particularly high rates in tubes containing separator gel. Previous studies have used a plethora of tubes without concern for PFAS contamination, possibly negatively impacting results. This study can inform future researchers how to choose blood collection tubes that will not falsely inflate results and avoid eliciting unnecessary concern.

Keywords

Serum, TFA, Human Samples, Contamination, Manufacturing

Date of this Version

12-6-2025

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