Carbon Dioxide, Total
Also known as: CO2, TCO2
Use
Evaluate the total carbonate buffering system in the body, acid-base balance. High results may represent respiratory acidosis with CO2 retention, or metabolic alkalosis (eg, prolonged vomiting). Low value may indicate respiratory alkalosis as in hyperventilation or metabolic acidosis (eg, diabetes with ketoacidosis).
Special Instructions
Maintain specimen in a tightly-stoppered tube to prevent CO2 loss. Note that CO2 loss occurs once the stopper is removed from the vacutainer tube, and results should be interpreted with caution.
Limitations
Interpretation of results requires clinical information and other electrolytes. CO2 loss is inevitable and varies among laboratory locations, affecting measurement. Rigorous processes are in place to reduce exposure to the atmosphere, but minor logistical variations may cause differences in CO2 loss.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2028-9
- 2028-9
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube.
Collection Instructions
Separate serum or plasma from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Improper collection and storage; improper labeling
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |