Synonyms
Li; Eskalith®; Lithobid®
Expected Turnaround Time
1 day
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Related Information
FDA Cleared
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum or plasma
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Serum: red-top (no additive) tube; plasma: lavender top (EDTA) tube. Gel-barrier tubes are not recommended.
Collection
Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube. Trough levels are most reproducible
Storage Instructions
Submission/transport (<3 days): Room temperature. For storage beyond three days, specimen should be refrigerated or frozen.
Test Details
Use
Therapeutic Drug Management
Methodology
Spectrophotometry (SPEC)
Reference Interval
0.6 - 1.2 mEq/L