Nicotine Survey, Serum
Use
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the United States. This test is used for monitoring tobacco use, especially in health fair settings. It aids in the measurement of serum nicotine and its metabolite cotinine, which are indicators of tobacco use or nicotine replacement therapy. Nicotine stimulates dopamine release, contributing to its addictive nature. Monitoring these levels helps in assessing tobacco use and can support cessation efforts.
Special Instructions
Knowledge of the time elapsed between the last use of nicotine and specimen collection is crucial for accurate interpretation of test results. If not ordering electronically, a Therapeutics Test Request (T831) form must be completed and sent with the specimen.
Limitations
No significant cautionary statements are provided for this test. However, it is important to note that passive exposure to tobacco smoke can lead to accumulation of nicotine metabolites in non-users, which may impact the interpretation of results. Additionally, improper specimen collection, handling, and inappropriate test selection may lead to diagnostic confusion.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 90226-2
- 3853-9
- 10365-5
Result Turnaround Time
7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.8 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Within 2 hours of collection, centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial. Use a Red top collection tube. Serum gel/SST are not acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
None
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |