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NICOTINE (COTININE) METABOLITE SCREEN, SERUM

Message
                                                       *************** EFFECTIVE 02/09/2025 ***************


This test is temporarily being sent to Quest Diagnostics.  Please order Quest #90642 - Nicotine and Cotinine, Serum/Plasma (CPT 80323) using the Soft code UNCMS.  



IMPORTANT
Gold-top (SST) tubes are not accepted for Quest test.  Collect serum in red-top tube (no gel).  Centrifuge then aliquot (transfer) serum to a plastic, screw-capped vial.  Send refrigerated.


Test Code
NICTS


CPT Codes
80307

Preferred Specimen
1 Gold tube (gel-separator)


Minimum Volume
0.5 mL


Instructions
Centrifuge for complete separation of serum and red cells.  Refrigerate until tested.


Transport Temperature
Refrigerate


Specimen Stability
  • 2-8°C up to 21 days
  • Frozen up to 6 months


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Quantity not sufficient


Methodology

EIA



Setup Schedule
M, Tu, W, Th, F, Sa, Su


Report Available
Within 24 hours of receipt at the performing laboratory.


Reference Range
     Result                    Value (ng/mL)
Negative <50
Positive >50
Indeterminant LC/MS confirmation is recommended

 



Clinical Significance
Nicotine is readily metabolized into cotinine. This assay is intended as an aid in the detection of cotinine after use or exposure to tobacco products.


Performed By
Alverno Laboratories

Performing Laboratory
Alverno Central Lab  
NCHB1 (Chemistry, Beckman AU)


Last Updated: February 21, 2025


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.