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HOMOCYSTEINE
Message***Cannot add on to previously drawn sample***
Do NOT use gel separator tube (i.e. Pearl Top)
Test Code
HCYST
CPT Codes
83090
Preferred Specimen
1 Lavender tube (EDTA)
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
None
Instructions
Levels of homocysteine increase when there is a delay in separation of the red cells. Place specimen on wet ice immediately after venipuncture. Sample MUST be separated from red cells within 4 hours of collection. Transfer plasma into an aliquot tube and maintain refrigerated or frozen. Do NOT send whole blood.
Transport Temperature
Refrigerate or freeze plasma - do not freeze lavender tube
Specimen Stability
Plasma stored at 2-8°C up to 2 days; -20°C for 7 days
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
The following conditions will result in a rejected sample:
- Whole blood submitted
- Improper storage temperature
- Frozen lavender tube
Methodology
Chemiluminescent
Setup Schedule
M, T, W, Th, F, Sa, Sun
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.
Performed By
Alverno Laboratories
Performing Laboratory
Alverno Central Lab
NCHB3 (Chemistry, Centaur)
Last Updated: April 25, 2023
