Which compound can interfere with the coulometric chloride assay?

The coulometric chloride assay is a sensitive method used to measure chloride levels in biological samples. The interference of an analyte occurs when its presence affects the accuracy of the assay's measurement. In the case of bromide, this compound can cause interference because it has a similar ionic charge and size to chloride ions. The reactions in the coulometric system that are designed to specifically oxidize chloride can be affected when bromide ions are present, leading to an overestimation of the chloride concentration.

When bromide is oxidized in the assay, it can contribute to the current measured, mimicking the signal that would normally be attributable to chloride ions. This interference can result in inaccurate chloride readings, making it important for laboratories to be aware of potential interfering substances, particularly halides like bromide.

While ascorbate, acetoacetate, and nitrate may have their own effects in different types of assays or under different conditions, they do not exhibit the same degree of interference in the coulometric chloride assay as bromide does. Understanding the nature of the compounds that can interfere with specific assays is crucial for accurate clinical measurements.