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HelpEpic Test Code LAB702 Carotene, Beta
Additional Codes
MML:FCARO
Useful For
Confirm the diagnosis of carotenoderma; detect fat malabsorption; depressed carotene levels may be found in cases of steatorrhea.
Method Name
High-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC)
Reporting Name
Carotene, BetaSpecimen Type
SerumSpecimen Required
Supplies: Sarstedt 5 mL Aliquot Tube (Amber) (T915)
Specimen Type: Serum
Container/Tube: Red
Specimen Volume:1 mL
Collection Instructions: Draw blood in a plain, red-top tube(s). (Serum gel tube is acceptable.)
Spin Down and send 1 mL of serum ambient in an amber vial to protect from light.
Note:
1. Protect from light within 1 hour of collection.
2. Patient must be fasting overnight (12 hours). Blood should be collected before breakfast in the morning and prior to any medication.
3. Abstain from alcohol for 24 hours prior to collection.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serum | Ambient (preferred) | 14 days | LIGHT PROTECTED |
| Frozen | 14 days | LIGHT PROTECTED | |
| Refrigerated | 14 days | LIGHT PROTECTED |
Reject Due To
| Hemolysis: | Mild reject; Gross reject |
| Thawing: | Warm OK; Cold OK |
| Other: | Specimen other than serum Red or SST, or if not light protected. |
Reference Values
3 - 91 ug/dL
Interpretation
High levels are useful to rule out steatorrhea but lower values lack specificity. There is poor sensitivity. High in the serum of those ingesting large amounts of vegetables.
Day(s) Performed
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Report Available
5 to 10 daysPerforming Laboratory
LabCorp BurlingtonCPT Code Information
82380