Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Plasma
Also known as: VIT C
Use
This test is used for the nutritional assessment of vitamin C. It helps in identifying deficiencies and assessing risk for deficiency due to inadequate tissue stores. Vitamin C concentrations lower than 11 umol/L indicate a deficiency. Concentrations between 11 and 23 umol/L are consistent with a moderate risk of deficiency due to inadequate tissue stores. Vitamin C concentration is reported as micromoles per liter (umol/L), and to convert concentration to milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), the result should be multiplied by 0.0176.
Special Instructions
A fasting specimen is preferred. Thawing and refreezing of the specimen and exposure to light will result in decreased vitamin C concentration. Place specimen in ice bath immediately after collection. Ensure the specimen is protected from light and frozen within one hour after collection.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The test is performed in a CLIA certified laboratory and is intended for clinical purposes, making the validity dependent on this certification. The specimen must be protected from light and exposure to thawing and refreezing to avoid decreased vitamin C concentrations. Multiple test submissions require separate specimens.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1903-4
Result Turnaround Time
1-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
ARUP amber transport tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in Green (sodium or lithium heparin) plasma separator tube and place in an ice bath immediately. Protect the sample from light and centrifuge it. Transfer plasma and freeze within 1 hour of collection.
Storage Instructions
Critical frozen and light protected.
Causes for Rejection
EDTA plasma, whole blood, or body fluids. Grossly hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Unacceptable |
| Refrigerated | Unacceptable |
| Frozen | 1 month |