Comparison of SPE vs. SLE for the Quantitative Analysis of Anabolic Steroids in Serum Using LC-MS/MS

Analysis of anabolic steroids in serum typically requires a sample pretreatment step such as solid-phase extraction (SPE) prior to instrumental analysis. Traditional SPE-based methods utilize C18 or alternative reversed phase sorbents to retain the hydrophobic steroids. Alternatively, the use of a supported liquid extraction, or SLE, is also gaining popularity for this panel of compounds. This application note demonstrates a method that utilizes a traditional reversed phase interaction, but also features the addition of strong-anion exchange functionality (QAX) within the sorbent. This added functionality aids in the removal of unwanted matrix components commonly found in serum such as amino acids and inorganic ions.