Synonyms: Lactate

CPT 4 Code: 83605

Test Order Mnemonic: LAC ACID

Lab: Clinical Chemistry

Request Form: Routine Chemistry Form 1

Collection: Routine venipuncture

Storage Instructions: Centrifuge the specimen and remove plasma from cells within 30 minutes of collection. Keep blood on ice until separated and then keep plasma on ice or refrigerate at 2-8°C.

Causes for Rejection: Gross hemolysis, improperly labeled specimen, specimen not separated from cells, specimen QNS, specimen not on ice.

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

Turnaround Time: 1 hour

Specimen: Blood

Volume: 7 mL blood

Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL plasma

Container: 7 mL gray-topped (sodium fluoride) tube or gray microtainer tube. Place tube immediately on ice after collection.

Reference Ranges: 0.7-2.1 mmol/L

Significant Values: >5 mmol/L

Test Method: Colorimetric

Reviewed/revised April 2007 by P. Harris