What is the purpose of adding ascorbic acid to ACD solution?

The addition of ascorbic acid to ACD (acid-citrate-dextrose) solution serves primarily as a reducing agent, specifically to reduce chromate ions. This is particularly important because chromate ions can interfere with various biochemical processes and measurements, potentially leading to inaccurate results in clinical applications. Ascorbic acid helps to maintain the integrity of the solution by preventing oxidative reactions that could compromise the blood components during storage or processing.

While stabilizing patient blood and preventing clot formation are relevant points regarding anticoagulants like ACD, these functions are primarily associated with the citric acid and dextrose components in the solution, rather than ascorbic acid itself. Enhancing imaging quality, while an important consideration in nuclear medicine, is not the direct role of ascorbic acid in this context. Therefore, the specific purpose of ascorbic acid is tied to its role as a reductant, ensuring the ACD solution remains effective and stable for its intended use.