6-Monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM) Confirmation, Chain of Custody, Meconium
Use
This test is useful for detecting in utero heroin exposure up to 5 months before birth. It is specifically designed for legal purposes as it requires a chain of custody to ensure the specimen was handled properly. The test is appropriate for use in legal settings where evidence of illicit drug use during pregnancy can be critical, such as court proceedings related to the possible separation of the baby from the mother.
Special Instructions
This test must be ordered with a complete chain-of-custody. The laboratory recommends sending chain-of-custody specimens by overnight shipment. The specimen that arrives with a broken seal does not meet the chain-of-custody requirements. A Chain of Custody Request form must be included if not ordered electronically.
Limitations
The short half-life of 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM) may prevent its detection in heroin users. 6-MAM is metabolized to morphine, but the presence of morphine alone does not confirm heroin use. It is recommended that the testing be performed using a chain of custody to ensure results are appropriate for legal proceedings.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 29345-6
- 29345-6
- 69050-3
- 77202-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
1 g
Minimum Volume
0.3 g
Collection Instructions
Collect entire random meconium specimen. Send specimen frozen. When refrigerated, a significant percentage of 6-monoacetylmorphine will convert to morphine in less than 24 hours.
Causes for Rejection
Grossly bloody specimens are rejected; pink are okay.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Frozen | 14 days |