Acetaminophen, Serum
Use
This test is useful for monitoring toxicity in cases of acetaminophen overdose. Acetaminophen is commonly found in various over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol and is an analgesic and antipyretic drug lacking anti-inflammatory properties. In normal therapeutic doses, its toxicity is managed via metabolism in the liver, but overdose can lead to liver damage and potentially fatal hepatotoxicity. Serum concentration and half-life measurements are crucial for assessing intoxication levels as other liver function tests may not indicate significant changes until it is too late for effective intervention.
Special Instructions
The test is available for order in New York State. It is critical to process samples promptly, with serum gel tubes needing centrifuging within 2 hours and red-top tubes requiring immediate processing.
Limitations
The test requires accurate timing from ingestion to draw time for effective toxicity assessment. Mismanagement of sample handling, such as delays in centrifugation or improper container use, can affect test accuracy. Initial blood samples should be collected no sooner than 2 hours after ingestion for precise results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Photometric)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3298-7
- 3298-7
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Preferred: Serum gel; Acceptable: Red top; Submitted in a plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should be centrifuged, and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |