HOMOCYSTEINE

Test Code

LAB8118

CPT Codes
83090

Includes

Preferred Specimen

1 Lavender tube (EDTA)

Note: Cannot add on to previously drawn sample

Patient Preparation
Place specimen on wet ice immediately after venipuncture.

Minimum Volume

0.3 mL (1 mL optimal)

Instructions

Centrifuge for complete separation of plasma from red cells WITHIN 4 HOURS. Levels of Homocysteine increase when there is a delay in seperation of the red cells. Transfer plasma into an aliquot tube and maintain refrigerated or frozen DO NOT send whole blood.

Transport Container

Transfer tube

Transport Temperature

Refrigerate or freeze

Specimen Stability

Plasma stored at 2-8°C up to 2 days
-20°C for 7 days

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

Whole blood submitted
Improper storage temperature
Frozen lavender tube

Methodology
Chemiluminescent

Setup Schedule

M, T, W, Th, F, Sa, Sun

As received, STAT testing is available

Reference Range

3.7-13.9 umol/L

Clinical Significance

Homocysteine levels are used to diagnose homocystinuria, vitamin B12 deficiency, and folate deficiency. It has also been utilized to assess risk of stroke, dementia, and cardiovascular disease. This test is often performed in conjunction with lipid testing.

Performing Laboratory
Alverno Central Lab

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.