Interferon-alpha

Test Code

34887

CPT Codes
83520

Preferred Specimen

1 mL frozen serum collected in a red-top tube (no gel)

Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Instructions

Keep samples frozen. Freeze within 30 minutes of draw.

Transport Temperature

Frozen

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: Unacceptable
Refrigerated: Unacceptable
Frozen: 30 days

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

Gross hemolysis • Lipemia • Icteric • Heat inactivated serum • Serum separator tube (SST) • CSF and other body fluids • Received refrigerated • Received room temperature

Methodology
Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

FDA Status
This test was performed using a kit that has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. The analytical performance characteristics of this test have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. This test should not be used for diagnosis without confirmation by other medically established means.

Setup Schedule

Set up: 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month; Report available: 7-14 days

Clinical Significance

IFNalpha is mainly produced by monocytes/macrophages, lymphoblastic cells and fibroblasts, but different types of virus activated cells may produce the cytokine. IFNalpha shows antiviral, antiparasitic, and antiproliferative properties. Increased levels suggest recent or ongoing viral or parasitic infection.

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.