On automated hematology analyzers, hemoglobin determinations may be falsely elevated due to the presence of which one of the following interfering substances?

The presence of lipemia, which is an increased concentration of lipids in the blood, can lead to falsely elevated hemoglobin determinations on automated hematology analyzers. This occurs because lipemic samples can scatter light, which interferes with the optical measurements used to determine hemoglobin levels. As a result, the analyzer may misinterpret the scattered light as a higher concentration of hemoglobin than actually exists.

In practice, lipemic samples can present a challenge in laboratory settings, as other analytes and measurements can also be affected by the presence of lipids. Therefore, recognizing that lipemia is a specific condition that leads to erroneous results is crucial for maintaining the accuracy of hemoglobin measurements in patients who may have elevated lipid levels.