Lead, Whole Blood (Capillary)

Also known as: LEAD CAP

Clinical Use

Use

This test is recommended for routine screening of lead exposure in pediatric populations. Elevated results should be confirmed using a venous blood sample. Blood lead levels are important for determining potential lead exposure and for making clinical decisions related to environmental and medical management. Exposure to high levels of lead has serious health consequences, particularly in children, and can lead to neurological and developmental issues.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

Capillary collections are susceptible to contamination due to skin contact or nontrace element-free collection tubes. Results exceeding the reference interval should be re-evaluated with a venous blood sample to confirm lead levels. Thresholds for retesting and medical evaluation vary by regulatory body, necessitating consultation with state health departments for guidance. This is a Laboratory Developed Test and is not FDA cleared or approved.

Test Details

New York Approved

Methodology

Mass Spectrometry

Biomarkers

Lead

Analyte

Lead level

Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

LOINC Codes

Order Codes

10368-9 - Lead BldC-mCnc

Result Turnaround Time

1-3 days

Specimen

Whole Blood

Volume

0.5 mL

Minimum Volume

0.3 mL

Container

lavender microtainer (K2EDTA)

Collection Instructions

Invert specimen 10 times to prevent clot formation.

Patient Preparation

Clean puncture site well with soap and water before collection procedure begins.

Storage Instructions

Room temperature. Also acceptable: Refrigerated.

Causes for Rejection

Specimens collected in tubes other than lavender microtainer (K2EDTA). Specimens transported in tubes other than trace element-free transport tubes or lavender microtainer (K2EDTA) tubes. Heparin anticoagulant. Clotted specimens.