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Interferon-alpha
Test Code34887
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
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.