Electrolyte Panel
Also known as: LYTES
Use
The Electrolyte Panel is used to evaluate electrolytes in the body, which are critical for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle function. It is commonly ordered to assess and monitor health conditions such as dehydration, kidney function, cardiac activity, and acid-base balance. The panel measures key electrolytes including sodium, potassium, and chloride, as well as related markers such as carbon dioxide and anion gap to aid in the diagnosis and management of various clinical conditions.
Special Instructions
Specimens must be refrigerated after collection and transported tightly capped to ensure stability. Instant processing and quick turnaround allow for rapid diagnostics in clinical settings. An ARUP Standard Transport Tube should be used for transferring the serum or plasma.
Limitations
The panel may not provide comprehensive insights into complex or rare electrolyte imbalances without further specialized tests. Hemolyzed specimens or samples collected using incorrect anticoagulants such as sodium citrate, EDTA, potassium oxalate, or sodium fluoride can interfere with test results and must be rejected. Furthermore, results may vary between laboratories and equipment, necessitating careful interpretation of reference intervals.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2951-2
- 2823-3
- 2075-0
- 2028-9
- 33037-3
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Allow serum tube to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum or plasma from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated transport is required, tightly capped.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected in sodium citrate, EDTA, potassium oxalate, or sodium fluoride; hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 month |