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Cortisol, ACTH stimulation-53

Test info

Test name:

Cortisol, ACTH stimulation

Test number:

Excellian order number:

82533.2

Abbreviation:

CAS

Alternate names:

ACTH stimulation

Limitations:

Biotin supplements may cause clinically significant interference for this test assay. If interference is suspected, it is strongly recommended that biotin is discontinued for at least one week prior to retesting.

Specimen

Specimen type:

Serum

Collection container:

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

Volume:

1.0 mL

Minimum volume:

0.5 mL

Collection instructions:

Order one test for each specimen in the ACTH stimulation; 1.0 mL required for each specimen.
Immediately following collection, thoroughly mix sample by gently inverting 5 times
Label each specimen distinctly with time collected.

Protocol when not defined by Physician:
1. The Cortisol Stimulation test should be done in the morning (before 10 AM). An overnight fast is recommended.
2. Order the appropriate order set panel for your patient.
3. Collect a gold top tube (serum) of blood for the baseline. Record the collection time and initials on tube.
4. Obtain 250 mcg Cosyntropin from the pharmacy.
5. The nurse administers the Cosyntropin to the patient I.M. using a tuberculin syringe or IV per Pharmacy instructions.
6. Additional serum specimens (gold top tube) are collected at 30 minutes (if ordered) and 60 minutes (if ordered) after the injection. Record the collection times and initials on the tubes.
7. Specimens without collection times cannot be processed.

Processing instructions:

Allow sample to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes
Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection

Transport container:

Gold serum separator (SST) tube

Alternate specimen type:

Lithium heparin (Li hep) plasma

Alternate collection container:

Lt green plasma separator (PST)

Alternate collection instructions:

Immediately following collection, mix sample thoroughly by gently inverting 8 - 10, times to prevent clotting

Alternate processing instructions:

Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection

Alternate transport container:

Lt green plasma separator (PST)

Transport and stability:

Refrigerated (preferred) - 4 days

Ambient - 24 hours

Frozen - 12 months

Reason for rejection:

Improper labels (unlabeled or mislabeled)
Hemolysis (some procedures)
Improper anticoagulant or ratio
Delay in transport
Improper storage temperature affecting results
Inappropriate timing of collection
Improper container
Leaking container resulting in compromised specimen
Quantity not sufficient (QNS)

Performance

Performing lab:

AHL - Chemistry: C

Days set up:

Daily

TAT:

1 day

Method:

Electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA)

Clinical and Interpretive info

Billing

CPT codes:

82533

Tracking

Date created:

11/30/2001

Revised date:

12/26/2022

Review date:

01/04/2024