7AlphaC4 (7 alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one)
Also known as: 7 alpha-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one, 7AC4, 7C4, Bile Acid Diarrhea (BAD) marker, Bile Acid Malabsorption (BAM) marker
Use
Serum 7AlphaC4 is a surrogate measure of stool bile acids (BA) and elevated levels may be diagnostic for bile acid malabsorption (BAM), also known as bile acid diarrhea (BAD).
Special Instructions
Sample collection in the morning after overnight fast is recommended. Serum/plasma must be separated from cells within two hours of venipuncture and transferred to a plastic transport tube before freezing.
Limitations
This 7AlphaC4 test is specifically for Bile Acid Malabsorption/Diarrhea. It should not be used for diagnosing cholestasis of pregnancy, for which a different test is available. Results may vary depending on underlying conditions such as hypertriglyceridemia or metformin therapy.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 94866-1
- 94866-1
Result Turnaround Time
10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Serum from a gel-barrier tube, red-top tube, or serum transfer tube
Collection Instructions
Serum/plasma must be separated from cells within two hours of venipuncture. Transfer serum/plasma to a plastic transport tube before freezing.
Patient Preparation
Sample collection in the morning after overnight fast is recommended.
Storage Instructions
Freeze.
Causes for Rejection
Incorrect sample type
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 day |
| Refrigerated | 9 days |
| Frozen | 9 days |