Medtox
Synonyms
Mg
Expected Turnaround Time
3 days
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
In-house validated method
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Packed Red Blood Cells and Plasma, EDTA
Volume
2 mL each plasma and packed red blood cells
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL each plasma and packed red blood cells
Container
Royal blue-top (EDTA) metal-free tube
Collection
Both packed red blood cells and plasma are required. Plasma and red cells must be separated ASAP and shipped separately. Centrifuge whole blood sample and transfer plasma and packed red blood cells into separate plastic, acid-washed or trace metal-free tubes. Failure to separate may cause rejection due to hemolysis of red cells and contamination of the plasma. Specimen must be received at the test facility within five days of collection.
Storage Instructions
Submission/transport/storage: Refrigerate. Specimen must be received within five days of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Failure to separate plasma and packed red blood cells; sample receipt more than 5 days after collection
Test Details
Use
Evaluate magnesium stores
Methodology
Inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry (ICP/MS)
Reference Interval
3.5 - 7.1 mg/dL