Acetaminophen

Message

Performed in Chemistry

Test Code

ACETA

Alias/See Also

Tylenol

CPT Codes
80329

Preferred Specimen

Green Top LiHep, Plasma
WyMCC - SST

Other Acceptable Specimens

Gold/SST or Red Top

Specimen Stability

Room Temperature 24 hr
Refrigerated 7 days
Frozen 6 months

FDA Status
FDA Approved

Setup Schedule

Daily, Sunday through Saturday

Report Available

Less than 4 hours

Clinical Significance

Acetaminophen is a widely used analgesic and antipyretic found in a number of over‑the‑counter and prescription products. When consumed in overdose quantities, acetaminophen may cause severe liver and kidney damage, or death. The patient may have few or no symptoms early after acute overdose of acetaminophen. The only reliable early diagnostic indicator is provided by a quantitative measurement of the serum acetaminophen level. Clinical evidence of liver and kidney damage is usually delayed for 24 hours or more after ingestion, well after the time that the prophylactic antidote, acetylcysteine, can be effectively administered. Acetylcysteine is highly effective in preventing liver damage, especially if administered within 8 to 10 hours after overdose, and improves survival in patients with hepatic failure when initiated 12 to 16 hours after overdose.

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.