Bicarbonate, Serum
Use
Bicarbonate measurements aid in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple disorders associated with electrolyte dispersion and anion deficit, primarily in detecting acid-base imbalance within respiratory and metabolic systems. This includes conditions like diarrhea, renal tubular acidosis, hyperkalemic acidosis, renal failure, and ketoacidosis.
Special Instructions
Patient's age and sex are required for this test. Serum gel tube must be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. If using a red-top tube, it must also be centrifuged and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial within the same time frame.
Limitations
Bicarbonate determination includes dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2), which can escape once the stopper is removed from the tube, potentially altering results. The rate of change in the bicarbonate level is approximately 6 mmol/L per hour. Processing times for high-volume routine specimens and STAT specimens can affect the extent of this error, though clinically it is generally minimal.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1963-8
- 1963-8
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Serum gel tube or red top; plastic vial for submission
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tube must be centrifuged within 2 hours. For red-top tube, centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial within 2 hours.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |