Resources

Lithium

Message
Performed in Chemistry
Performed at Sonora Quest Laboratories for BPMC
Performed at WyMCC for TCH, PCMH
Performed at SRMC for OCH
Performed at BBMC for BIMC, BGFMC


Test Code
LI


CPT Codes
80178

Preferred Specimen
Serum - Red or SST/Gold
BUMCT - NaHep or grey


Instructions
For BPMC, see link below for specimen details, methodology, setup schedule and reference ranges.


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Collected in an outdated/expired tube
Hemolyzed, icteric or lipemic
Contaminated


FDA Status
FDA Approved

Setup Schedule
Daily, Sunday through Saturday


Report Available
Less than 4 hours


Clinical Significance
Lithium is widely used in the treatment of manic depressive psychosis. Administered as lithium carbonate, it is completely absorbed by the gastro-intestinal tract; peak serum levels occur 2 to 4 hours after an oral dose. The half life in serum is 48 to 72 hours and it is cleared through the kidneys (excretion parallels that of sodium). Reduced renal function can prolong clearance time. Lithium acts by enhancing the uptake of neurotransmitters, which produces a sedative effect on the central nervous system. Serum lithium concentrations are measured essentially to ensure compliance and to avoid toxicity. Early symptoms of intoxication include apathy, sluggishness, drowsiness, lethargy, speech difficulties, irregular tremors, myoclonic twitchings, muscle weakness and ataxia. Levels higher than 1.5 mmol/L (12 hours after a dose) indicate a significant risk of intoxication. 


Additional Information
Lithium


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.