Ordering Guidance

This test should not be requested in patients who have recently received radioisotopes, therapeutically or diagnostically, because of potential assay interference. A recommended time period before collection cannot be made because it will depend on the isotope administered, the dose given, and the clearance rate in the individual patient. Specimens will be screened for radioactivity prior to analysis. Radioactive specimens received in the laboratory will be held and assayed after the radioactivity has sufficiently decayed. This will result in a test delay.

Necessary Information

Patient's age must be provided.

Specimen Required

Patient Preparation:

1. Fasting: 8 hours, required

2. The patient should not have recently received radioisotopes, either therapeutically or diagnostically, due to potential assay interference. See Ordering Guidance.

Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)

Collection Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA)

Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial

Specimen Volume: 3 mL Plasma

Collection Instructions:

1. Place specimen on wet ice and keep cold at all times following collection.

2. Centrifuge (refrigerated centrifuge is not required) and aliquot plasma into a plastic vial. Freeze immediately.