Coenzyme Q10, Reduced and Total, Plasma
Use
This test is used for the diagnosis of primary coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiencies in patients not supplemented with CoQ10, and CoQ10 deficiency in mitochondrial disorders. It is also used to monitor CoQ10 status during treatment of degenerative conditions, including Parkinson and Alzheimer diseases, where CoQ10 plays a critical role as an essential cofactor in the mitochondrial respiratory chain responsible for oxidative phosphorylation and as an electron carrier and antioxidant.
Special Instructions
The test should not be used to distinguish primary CoQ10 deficiencies from acquired ones. It is recommended not to send other tests on the same vial of plasma due to the strict frozen criteria required for this assay.
Limitations
Coenzyme Q10 is sensitive to specimen handling and transport temperature. Improper specimen handling can lead to false-positive results. Hemolyzed specimens can affect the oxidized CoQ10 level; however, the total level remains constant. Thus, the test is not useful for distinguishing primary from acquired CoQ10 deficiencies.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 81157-0
- 27923-2
- 81156-2
- 59462-2
- 18771-6
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Green top (lithium or sodium heparin); Submission Container: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Immediately after collection, place specimen on wet ice and maintain until processing. Centrifuge within 3 hours of collection, aliquot plasma into a plastic vial, and freeze immediately.
Patient Preparation
Fasting for 8 hours is required.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis and gross lipemia are rejected. Gross icterus is acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Frozen | 7 days |