Ketamine and Metabolite Screen, Plasma
Use
This test is used to screen for the presence of ketamine and its primary metabolite, norketamine, in plasma. Ketamine is used medically as an anesthetic and is also known as a substance of abuse. Detecting its presence can be significant in clinical settings for the evaluation of patients treated with ketamine or suspected of abusing the drug.
Special Instructions
Must submit one specimen per order. Specimens cannot be shared between multiple orders. Collect blood in an EDTA tube (lavender top or pink top), centrifuge, and send 3 mL of plasma refrigerated in a preservative-free plastic vial.
Limitations
The plasma gel tube is not acceptable for specimen collection. Results may vary based on individual metabolism, dosage, and timing of specimen collection relative to substance use. False positives may occur with substances with similar structures or metabolites.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 42922-5
Result Turnaround Time
6-12 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
0.9 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in an EDTA (lavender top or pink top) tube(s). Centrifuge and send 3 mL of plasma refrigerated in a preservative-free plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Polymer gel separation tube (SST or PST)
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 270 days |