FREE CARBAMAZEPINE, serum (087-0597)

Synonyms: Free Tegretol

CPT 4 Code: 80156

Test Order Mnemonic: CARB FREE

Lab: Clinical Chemistry

Request Form: Special Chemistry Form 2

Collection: Routine venipuncture; immediately before the next dose

Storage Instructions: Store blood at room temperature or refrigerated at 2-8°C. Centrifuge the specimen to remove the serum from the red cells within 4 hours of collection and store serum refrigerated.

Causes for Rejection: Blood collected in SST/gel separator tubes, heparinized blood

Availability: Samples are received 24 hours per day at Sample Management, Room 5.136 McCullough.

Turnaround Time: Routine: 24 hours; STAT: 1 hours

Specimen: Blood

Volume: 3 mL blood

Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL serum

Container: Red-topped tube. Do not use serum separator tubes.

Reference Ranges: Therapeutic Range: 0.6 – 4.2 mcg/mL

Critical Values: Potential toxic: >4 mcg/mL

Test Method: FPIA

Reviewed/revised April 2007 by P. Harris