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Methotrexate
Test CodeMTX - NCMC
CPT Codes
80204
Preferred Specimen
0.9 mL serum from Red Top Non-Gel or SST Protected from light
Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
0.9 mL plasma from Green top (LiHep) Protected from light
Instructions
Keep sample protected from light.
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Reject any hemolysis, not protected from light
Clinical Significance
Methotrexate [N-[4[[(2,4-diamino-6-pteridinyl) methyl] methylamino]benzoyl]-L-glutamic acid],formerly Amethopterin, is an antimetabolite used in the treatment of certain neoplastic diseases, severe psoriasis, and adult rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate has the potential for serious toxicity. Patients undergoing methotrexate therapy should be closely monitored so that toxic effects are detected promptly. Guidelines for methotrexate therapy with leucovorin rescue should be consulted. Intermediate to high doses of methotrexate (approximately 35 mg/m2 - 12 g/m2) with leucovorin (citrovorum-factor) rescue have been used with favorable results in the treatment of osteogenic sarcoma, leukemia, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, lung and breast cancer.
Performing Laboratory
North Colorado Medical Center
