Nicotine and Cotinine, Urine : 90646

Test Code

UNICOT or 90646

CPT Codes
80323 (HCPCS: G0480)

Preferred Specimen

1 mL random urine

Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Transport Container

Plastic transport tube

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Ambient: 72 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 30 days

Methodology
Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

Setup Schedule

Monday & Wednesday & Friday

Report Available

4 days (From receipt at performing laboratory)

Limitations

This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.

Reference Range

Nicotine Urine
Smoker: >200 ng/mL
Nonsmokers: < or = 17 ng/mL

Cotinine, Urine
Smokers: >300 ng/mL
Nonsmokers: < or = 20 ng/mL

Clinical Significance

This assay is used for the detection of nicotine and cotinine in urine to determine the tobacco exposure status of the individual. Nicotine has a short half-life of approximately forty minutes; its presence may indicate recent tobacco exposure. Cotinine, the major nicotine metabolite, has a half-life of 24 hours and is detectable for several days after cessation of tobacco exposure.

Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics

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.