N-Telopeptide Cross-links (NTx), Urine (Serial Monitor)
Use
The N-Telopeptide Cross-links (NTx) test is used to monitor bone resorption, particularly in conditions such as osteoporosis and Paget's disease, and in patients undergoing hormone replacement therapy. The test measures N-telopeptide, a marker released during the breakdown of bone collagen. It is useful in assessing the effectiveness of treatments aimed at reducing bone resorption. A decrease in the NTx value over time can indicate successful therapy, while elevated levels may suggest increased bone turnover.
Special Instructions
Patient's Social Security number is required to monitor therapy over time. It is critical to consistently use the same assay method for serial testing to ensure accurate monitoring of a patient's therapy progress. Different methods cannot be interchanged. To order this test without the serial surveillance service, a different test code (141093) should be used.
Limitations
Results obtained with different assay methodologies should not be used interchangeably in serial testing. The test is not absolute evidence of the presence or absence of malignant disease. Instead, it should only be used to determine trends in NTx levels to assess therapy effectiveness. Users must also consider normal biological variability and analytical variability when interpreting results. Serial graphics in the results offer visual aid, but interpretation should align with clinical guidelines and physician expertise.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Multiplex Protein Panel)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 27939-8
- 27939-8
- 2161-8
- 14115-0
Result Turnaround Time
3-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Transport tube, no preservative