VALPROIC ACID, TOTAL

Test Code

VAL

Alias/See Also

Depakote

CPT Codes
80164

Preferred Specimen

Red Tube

Patient Preparation
None

Minimum Volume

1 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Green Tube (Lithium Heparin)

Instructions

Centrifuge for complete separation of serum or plasam from red cells.

Transport Container

RED Tube

Transport Temperature

Room Temperature

Specimen Stability

2-8°C up to 2 days

Methodology
EIA

Setup Schedule

DAILY, as received

Report Available

STAT: <60 minutes
Routine: <4 hours

Reference Range

Male/Female All Ages: Normal Range: 50-125 ug/ml Critical High : >=125 ug/ml
Reference ranges may vary based on performing lab. Use lab reports when interpreting patient results.

Clinical Significance

Valproic acid is used as an anticonvulsant to treat certain types of seizures, to prevent migraine headaches and to treat various psychiatric illnesses such as bipolar disorder and aggression. Drugs that compete for protein-binding sites with valproic acid can increase the concentration of valproic acid. Therapeutic drug monitoring is useful to optimize dose and detect the toxicity.

Performing Laboratory
Mount Sinai Hospital
Holy Cross Hospital

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.