Vancomycin, Peak, Serum
Use
This test is useful for monitoring peak levels in selected patients receiving vancomycin therapy. Vancomycin is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by gram-positive organisms, especially in cases resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics, such as MRSA and penicillin-resistant strains. Monitoring vancomycin levels is important due to potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity risks, especially in patients with reduced renal function or at high risk for nephrotoxicity. Peak levels are primarily used for pharmacokinetic analyses.
Special Instructions
In addition to this peak level test, trough level and random testing are available. For trough level testing, blood should be drawn no more than 30 minutes before the next dose. For random testing, the Vancomycin, Random, Serum test should be ordered. If not ordering electronically, complete and send a Therapeutics Test Request form with the specimen.
Limitations
The test may be interfered with by human antimouse antibodies (HAMA) in the sample, causing falsely lowered results. Rare cases of unspecific binding of heterophilic antibodies to the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase reagent may result in falsely lower test results. Peak concentrations do not correlate well with efficacy or nephrotoxicity, but may aid in pharmacokinetic analysis.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 4090-7
- 4090-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Red top tube; plastic vial for submission
Collection Instructions
Serum for a peak level should be drawn 1 hour after completion of dose. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 365 days |