Drugs of Abuse Screen 4, Chain of Custody, Meconium
Use
This test is useful for identifying amphetamines (and methamphetamines), opiates, and metabolites of cocaine and marijuana in a meconium specimen. It is particularly important when results may be used in court, as the chain of custody must be ensured to protect the rights of the individual providing the specimen. A positive result can indicate that the baby was exposed to these drugs in utero, which could have legal or social implications such as separation of the baby from the mother.
Special Instructions
Chain of custody is required for cases where test results may be used in legal proceedings. The Chain of Custody Meconium Kit (T653) should be used for specimen collection, including seals and documentation. If not ordering electronically, the Therapeutics Test Request Form (T831) must accompany the specimen.
Limitations
Heroin use must be suspected if the specimen is not sent frozen, as this can prevent the degradation of 6-monoacetylmorphine. Failure to meet chain-of-custody requirements, such as a broken seal, can also affect test validity. Specimen handling conditions, such as non-frozen shipping, can lead to degradation of certain metabolites, impacting test results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 49046-6
- 26895-3
- 27289-8
- 26956-3
- 29158-3
- 26893-8
- 77202-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
1 g
Minimum Volume
0.45 g
Container
Chain of Custody Meconium Kit (T653)
Collection Instructions
Collect entire random meconium specimen. Seal properly to ensure chain of custody.
Storage Instructions
Frozen storage is preferred. Refrigerated or ambient storage affects stability.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens that are grossly bloody, stored in diapers, or have a broken seal will be rejected.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 21 days |
| Frozen | 21 days |