Barbiturates Confirmation, Serum

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC37744Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID FBCFSCPT Codes 0480, 80345

Barbiturates Confirmation, Serum

Clinical Use

Use

The Barbiturates Confirmation test is used to detect the presence of barbiturates in serum, which are central nervous system depressants. This test helps determine if an individual has been using barbiturate drugs, which can be prescribed for anxiety, epilepsy, and sleep disorders, but also may be abused. Barbiturates can lead to sedation, sleep, coma, or potentially lethal outcomes when consumed in high concentrations. The test provides confirmation of the presence and concentration levels of various barbiturates, aiding in both clinical decision-making and forensic investigations.

Special Instructions

This test is only orderable as a reflex following a preliminary screening test for drugs of abuse and alcohol (FDA1S or FD10S). It is not directly orderable as an individual test. The test is performed using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS), requiring specific serum handling and storage conditions as detailed in the specimen requirements.

Limitations

The test specifically confirms the presence and concentration of Butabarbital, Butalbital, Pentobarbital, Secobarbital, and Phenobarbital. Limitations include potential interference from other compounds present in the serum and the inability to detect barbiturates not listed among the tested analytes. The presence of barbiturates at concentrations below the reporting limits may not be detected. Clinical interpretation should consider the patient's complete drug history and the possibility of cross-reactivity or interference from other substances. The test results are intended to be used as part of an overall clinical assessment, and not as the sole basis for diagnosis or therapeutic decisions.

Test Details

New York Approved