ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Homocysteine, Total : 0099869

Mnemonic: HOMOCY-QNT

Methodology: Quantitative Enzymatic
Performed: Sun-Sat
Reported: Within 24 hours
Specimen Required: Patient Prep: Fasting specimen preferred.

Collect: Green (sodium or lithium heparin) or serum separator tube.

Specimen Preparation: Serum or plasma must be separated from cells within one hour of collection. If specimen cannot be separated from cells within one hour, store specimen on ice. Transfer 1 mL serum or plasma to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.5 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Unacceptable Conditions: Sodium citrate.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 1 hour; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 3 months
Reference Interval:
< 11 µmol/L, for both male and female
Interpretive Data: Plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) is a graded risk factor for cardiovascular disease.  The risk increases progressively with homocysteine concentration.  Maintenance of homocysteine levels below 15 µmol/L is recommended.
 
Plasma Total Homocysteine graded risk factor for cardiovascular disease (Clin Chem 2009; 55:378-84):  
Less than 11 µmol/L
11-14 µmol/L
15-29 µmol/L
Greater than 29 µmol/L 		Desirable
Intermediate
High
Very High

Note:  False elevations of plasma or serum homocysteine may occur if the plasma or serum is not promptly separated from the cells at the time of collection.
CPT Code(s): 83090
 
 

 

 

 
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