A sample that has undergone centrifugation and appears green/brownish is likely to have what characteristic?

A sample that appears green/brownish after centrifugation is indicative of high amounts of bilirubin. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that results from the breakdown of red blood cells and is processed by the liver. When present in elevated levels, such as in conditions like liver disease, hemolysis, or bile duct obstruction, the color of the serum or plasma can shift from its normal straw-yellow hue to a more pronounced green or brown. This coloration serves as a visual marker for clinicians and laboratory personnel to identify possible jaundice or other underlying issues related to bilirubin metabolism.

While other factors like increased white blood cell counts or low plasma volumes can affect the appearance of a sample, they would not specifically lead to a green or brown tint. Normal bilirubin levels usually result in a typical yellow coloration, and alterations in plasma volume or cell counts generally manifest differently visually in centrifuged samples. Therefore, the appearance of green/brown in a centrifuged sample can be confidently interpreted as reflecting high amounts of bilirubin.