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Lithium
MessageTest performed at York Hospital Laboratory.
Test Code
LI
CPT Codes
80178
Preferred Specimen
0.2 mL serum collected in a serum separator tube (SST)
Other Acceptable Specimens
0.2 mL serum collected in a no additive (red-top) tube
Instructions
Samples are commonly drawn approximately 12 hours after the last dose has been taken. Separate serum from the cells within 4 hours of collection.
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours
Refrigerated: 24 hours
Frozen: 6 months
Refrigerated: 24 hours
Frozen: 6 months
Methodology
Spectrophotometry
Setup Schedule
Daily
Report Available
Next Day
Reference Range
0.6-1.2 mmol/L Detection Limit: 0.2 mmol/L Critical Values >1.5 mmol/L
Clinical Significance
Lithium is used in the treatment of bipolar (manic-depressive) illness. Lithium measurements are used to monitor patient compliance and therapy and to diagnose potential overdose. Symptoms of lithium intoxication include sluggishness, drowsiness, muscle weakness, and ataxia.
