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HelpTest Code LAB302 Lithium, Serum
Additional Codes
| Test Name in EPIC | EPIC Test Code | Mnemonic |
|---|---|---|
| LITHIUM | LAB302 | LITH |
Methodology
Colorimetric
Clinical Information
Lithium alters the intraneuronal metabolism of catecholamines by an unknown mechanism. It is used to suppress the manic phase of manic-depressive psychosis.
Lithium is distributed throughout the total water spaces of the body and is excreted primarily by the kidney.
Toxicity from lithium salts leads to ataxia, slurred speech, and confusion. Since the concentration of lithium in the serum varies with the time after the dose, blood for lithium determination should be drawn at a standard time, preferably 8 to 12 hours after the last dose (trough values).
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Serum
Container/Tube: Plain red top or serum gel
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Draw blood 30 minutes prior to next does or least 6 to 12 hours after last dose (trough specimen).
2. Spin down, separate serum from cells within 2 hours of draw.
3. If plunger filters are used, immediate removal of serum is indicated unless an air gap can be created between the device and specimen.
Additional Information: Plasma is not acceptable.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient 1 day/Refrigerate 5 days OK/Frozen OK
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Performing Laboratory
Chemistry-
St. Joseph's Medical Center Lab
International Falls Clinic Lab, SMDC Clinical Lab, Moose Lake Hospital Lab
Fargo Hospital Lab
Test Classification and CPT Coding
80178
Reference Values
Therapeutic Range: 0.6-1.2 mEq/L
Toxic: >2.0 mEq/L
Elderly patients may show signs of toxicity at levels at or below the upper limits of the reference range.
Usefuil For/Utility
Monitoring therapy of patients with bipolar disorders, including recurrent episodes of mania and depression
Evaluating lithium toxicity