Eosinophil Cationic Protein (ECP)

Message

For Specimen Integrity during Extreme Weather see the “Lockbox Usage in Extreme Weather” document at the top of this page.

Test Code

ECP

CPT Codes
83520

Preferred Specimen

1 mL serum collected in a red-top tube (no gel)

Minimum Volume

0.3 mL

Instructions

Parameters such as blood collection tube, coagulation time and temperature must be kept within specified limits, since they affect the concentration of released ECP in serum samples. The clotting represents the first incubation in the assay, in which the ECP measured is to be reproducibly released from the eosinophils which have been activated by the inflammation.
Collect blood by venipuncture. After collection gently invert the tube 5 times. Release ECP by clotting for 60-120 minutes at room temperature 20-24° C. The temperature must not vary more than + or - 1 degree between sampling occasions to give comparable results. Centrifuge at 1000-1300 x g for 10 minutes at room temperature. Decant serum into a new tube.

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated (cold packs)

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 24 hours
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 30 days

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

Hemolysis • Grossly lipemic • Serum Separator Tube (SST®)

Methodology
Fluoroenzyme Immunoassay (UNICAP)

FDA Status
This test was performed using a kit that has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. The analytical performance characteristics of this test have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. This test should not be used for diagnosis without confirmation by other medically established means.

Setup Schedule

Tuesday, Friday Morning
Report available: 5 Days

Reference Range

2-10 mcg/L

Clinical Significance

UNICAP ECP is an invitro test system for quantitative measurement of Eosinophil Cationic Protein (ECP) in human serum. Determination of ECP levels in human sera is important to diagnose a variety of allergic disorders and other clinic conditions connected with activated eosinophils.

Performing Laboratory

Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute-San Juan Capistrano, CA

33608 Ortega Highway

San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675-2042

Last Updated: November 29, 2021

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.