ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia Antibodies : 0051052

Mnemonic: PLT HAT

Methodology: Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: 1-2 days
Specimen Required: Collect:  One 7 mL plain red.

Storage/Transport Temperature:  1 mL serum, frozen.  (Min: 0.2 mL) Also acceptable: plasma (EDTA or sodium citrate).  Submit specimen in an ARUP Standard Transport Tube.

Remarks:  CRITICAL FROZEN.  Separate specimens must be submitted when multiple tests are ordered.  Remove serum or plasma from cells ASAP.  Specimen may be stored at 2-8°C if tested within 48 hours.
Pediatric Transport: Ship on dry ice using overnight service.

Unacceptable Conditions:  Heparinized specimens.  Microbially contaminated, hemolyzed, icteric, lipemic, or heat-inactivated sera may give inconsistent results. 

Stability (collection to initiation of testing):  After separation from cells: Ambient: Unacceptable; Refrigerated: 2 days; Frozen: 1 month
Reference Interval:
0.399 OD or less
Interpretive Data: By itself, a positive result on this ELISA test is relatively non-specific for a clinical diagnosis of heparin-associated antibody syndrome (HIT) (frequent false-positives) and a negative result does not exclude a diagnosis of HIT if the clinical suspicion remains high (occasional false-negatives). Results should be used in conjunction with clinical findings, platelet counts and other laboratory results.

For a clinical scoring system to assess pretest probability of HIT and other guidance for diagnosing HIT, refer to the Heparin-Associated Antibody Syndrome topic at www.arupconsult.com.
CPT Code(s): 86022
 
 

 

 

 
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