Vitamin A and Carotene
Use
A combination of a low serum carotene level and a low vitamin A suggests inadequate vitamin A nutrition.
Special Instructions
Patients must fast for a minimum of eight hours, and should not ingest any foods containing vitamin A or carotene 48 hours prior to specimen collection if they are older than six months. For individuals younger than six months, this period is reduced to 24 hours.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Labcorp. It has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. Results may be affected if beta carotene sample is not protected from light or if other than serum samples are received.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2053-7
- 2923-1
- 2053-7
- 2923-1
Result Turnaround Time
4-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
Two aliquots: 0.8 mL each
Minimum Volume
Two aliquots: 0.4 mL each
Container
Vitamin A can be shipped in red-top tube or gel-barrier tube; beta carotene should be shipped in amber plastic transport tube with amber top.
Collection Instructions
Transfer specimens to separate amber plastic transport tubes. Beta carotene should be shipped in amber plastic transport tube with amber top.
Patient Preparation
Patient should abstain from alcohol for 24 hours prior to collection. For those who are younger than six months, draw prior to next feeding. Blood should be collected before breakfast in the morning and prior to any medication.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature. Beta carotene should be light-protected.
Causes for Rejection
Beta carotene specimen not protected from light; sample type other than serum received
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |