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HelpTest Code LAB29 Lithium Level
Clinical Information
The therapeutic range for lithium has been established at <60 years: 0.60-1.20 mmol/L, ≥60 years: 0.40-0.80 mmol/L. Within this range, most people will respond to the drug without symptoms of toxicity. However, response and side effects are individual. Lithium concentrations and side effects can increase with the loss of salt and water from the body, which can occur with a salt-free diet, excessive sweating, or an illness that causes vomiting and diarrhea. A variety of prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements can also increase, decrease, or interfere with the concentrations of lithium.
Synonym
- LI
Specimen Required
Preferred Container/Tube: Gold SST Top
Acceptable Container/Tube: Gold SST Top
Specimen Volume: 3 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 1 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Ambient: 2 hours
Refrigerated: 7 days
Specimen Collection Information
Processing instructions: Draw 1 hour PRIOR to dose.
Rejected Due To
- Gross hemolysis
- Gross icterus
- Quantity not sufficient
- Quality not acceptable
Reference Values
Therapeutic Range:
0-59 years: 0.60-1.20 mmol/L
60+ years: 0.40-0.80 mmol/L
Method Description
A spectrophotometric method which can be readily adapted to automated clinical chemistry analyzers. Lithium present in the sample reacts with a substituted porphyrin compound at an alkaline pH, resulting in a change in absorbance which is directly proportional to the concentration of Lithium in the sample.
Performing Lab
Clinical Lab UH
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Report Available
Same day/1 day
Reporting Name
Lithium
CPT Code Information
80178
LOINC Code Information
14334-7