Cyanide, Whole Blood
Also known as: CYANI WB
Use
The Cyanide, Whole Blood test is used to monitor cyanide exposure in patients. Cyanide is a fast-acting, potentially deadly chemical that affects the body's ability to use oxygen. Monitoring cyanide levels is crucial in cases of suspected poisoning or occupational exposure. This test can help guide treatment by measuring the concentration of cyanide present in whole blood.
Special Instructions
The test is not performed at ARUP; separate specimens must be submitted when multiple tests are ordered. Samples should be shipped to the laboratory for analysis as soon as possible, using refrigerated or frozen transportation to minimize loss of cyanide.
Limitations
Cyanide has variable instability in biological specimens, and it is particularly unstable in some postmortem specimens. This instability can lead to a decrease in cyanide levels, affecting test accuracy. Additionally, although rare, increases in cyanide concentrations due to microbial action have been demonstrated. Preservation using sodium fluoride may help reduce this possibility, but the results must be carefully interpreted in the context of clinical and exposure history.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5634-1
Result Turnaround Time
10-14 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Gray-top tube (sodium fluoride/potassium oxalate)
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated. Also acceptable: Frozen.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Undefined |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 3 months |