Melatonin, Plasma
Use
The plasma melatonin test measures the concentration of melatonin in the blood, which is useful in diagnosing sleep disorders, studying circadian rhythms, and monitoring melatonin levels in therapeutic settings. It helps assess endogenous melatonin levels as well as the pharmacokinetics of administered melatonin, providing insights into an individual’s melatonin production and metabolism under both physiological and clinical conditions.
Special Instructions
Must submit one specimen per order. Specimens cannot be shared between multiple orders. Blood should be drawn into an EDTA tube, centrifuged, and plasma should be sent refrigerated in a plastic vial.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics were determined by NMS Labs. It has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The test measures only the total melatonin level in plasma and does not provide detailed metabolite analysis. Specimen conditions such as hemolysis or lipemia can cause rejection of the test sample, along with use of polymer gel separation tubes.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 11055-1
- 11055-1
Result Turnaround Time
6-12 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in EDTA (lavender top) tube(s). Centrifuge and send 1 mL of plasma refrigerated in a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis, lipemia, or use of polymer gel separation tube (SST or PST)
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 30 days |
| Frozen | 365 days |