C-Peptide, Three Specimens
Use
The C-Peptide, Three Specimens test is used primarily in the evaluation of patients with fasting hypoglycemia to differentiate between insulin-secreting tumors (insulinomas) and exogenous insulin administration. It is also used to monitor the insulin production of beta cells in diabetes management. By measuring the amount of C-peptide produced, healthcare providers can assess the functionality of a patient's insulin-producing beta cells.
Special Instructions
This panel requires multiple tubes to be drawn at various time points. Initial blood sample collection is followed by administration of a drug or treatment (such as glucola), followed by further samples post-treatment. Do not use this test if the patient is not receiving post-initial treatment. Biotin supplementation can interfere with test results, and patients should discontinue biotin for at least 72 hours prior to sample collection.
Limitations
Test results may exhibit interference from patients consuming high doses of biotin, which could lead to inaccurate results. Therefore, patients should be questioned regarding their intake of biotin or related supplements and advised accordingly. Further testing or confirmatory tests may be necessary depending on initial results which may affect overall turnaround time.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 13032-8
- 13033-6
- 46963-5
- 57376-6
- 57376-6
- 46963-5
- 13032-8
- 13033-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Collection Instructions
Collect three serum specimens at appropriate intervals. It is critical that post-treatment samples are collected accurately following drug administration or treatment step.
Patient Preparation
Patients should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to specimen collection.