Test Details

Mnemonic

CATFP

Ordering Code

3700210

CPT-4 Code(s)

82384

Specimen Information

Patient Preparation

Patients should be relaxed in either a supine or upright position before blood is drawn. States of anxiety and stress can cause fluctuations in the catecholamine levels. Draw specimen in a pre-chilled green-top vacutainer. Patient should avoid alcohol, coffee, tea, tobacco and strenuous exercise prior to collection. Overnight fasting is required.

Collect

Green sodium heparin (pre-chilled)

Specimen Preparation

After drawing specimen, place green sodium heparin tube in ice bath. Centrifuge for 20 minutes 1000 x G. The plasma must be free of red blood cells. Send 4.0 mL plasma frozen in 2 screw capped plastic vials. CRITICAL FROZEN.

Alternate Specimen

Plasma: Lithium heparin

Minimum Volume

2.5 mL

Transport Temperature

Critical frozen

Stability

Room temperature: 6 hours
Refrigerated: 6 hours
Frozen: 30 days

Methodology

High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Electrochemical Detection
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Reference Range

See report
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Performing Laboratory

Quest SJC
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New York DOH Approval Status

Yes
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