Triglyceride

Test Code

TRIG

CPT Codes
84478

Preferred Specimen

Serum (gold top) tube

Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Lithium Heparin Plasma (green top) tube

Instructions

A 12 to 14-hour fast is required for the most accurate result. Non-fasting results can be significantly increased. Do not use soap products to clean skin prior to venipuncture (alcohol is acceptable.)

This test is for Triglyceride measurement on Plasma or Serum. For Triglyceride measurement on Body Fluids, order MISTGL.

Transport Container

Serum (gold top) tube or Lithium Heparin Plasma (green top) tube

Transport Temperature

Room Temperature or Refrigeration

Specimen Stability

Room Temperature - 3 days; Refrigerated - 7 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Quantity Not Sufficient, EDTA contamination (purple top tube), IV contamination

Methodology
Colorimetric

Setup Schedule

Daily upon receipt

Report Available

Upon completion of analysis

Reference Range

< 150 mg/dL          Normal
150-199 mg/dL      Borderline high
200-499 mg/dL      High
> or = 500 mg/dL   Very high

Clinical Significance

Triglycerides, fatty acid esters of glycerol, represent the major form of fat found in the body; their primary function is to store and provide cellular energy. The concentration of triglycerides in the plasma at any given time is a balance between the rates of entry and removal. Triglyceride concentrations in the plasma vary with age and gender. Moderate increases occur during growth and development. Triglycerides are used for the evaluation of hyperlipidemias; high concentrations may occur with hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, glycogen storage diseases, and diabetes mellitus. Extremely high triglyceride concentrations are common in acute pancreatitis.

This test is for Triglyceride measurement on Plasma or Serum. For Triglyceride measurement on Body Fluids, order MISTGL.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.