Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide (VIP), Plasma
Also known as: VIP
Use
Measurement of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) in plasma can aid in the detection of VIP-secreting tumors (VIPomas), particularly in patients presenting with chronic diarrheal syndromes characterized by watery diarrhea, hypokalemia, and achlorhydria. Elevated VIP levels suggest the presence of an enteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Interpretation must consider clinical context and is not diagnostic in isolation. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/8150?utm_source=openai))
Special Instructions
Specimen must be collected as plasma in an EDTA lavender-top tube, centrifuged and aliquoted, and frozen immediately. Fasting for 10–12 hours and avoidance of antacids or intestinal motility medications for at least 48 hours prior to collection are recommended. ([jdos.nicholsinstitute.com](https://jdos.nicholsinstitute.com/dos/alvernolaboratories/test/1092524?utm_source=openai))
Limitations
Results are method-dependent; values obtained using different assay methodologies may not be interchangeable. Absence of elevated VIP does not exclude malignancy. Immunoassay interference (e.g., HAMA or heterophile antibodies) may affect results. Results should be interpreted in the context of clinical evaluations and other diagnostic assessments. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/8150?utm_source=openai))
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3125-2
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.55 mL
Container
Lavender top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot plasma into a plastic vial. Freeze immediately. Fasting specimen; avoid antacids or medications affecting intestinal motility for ≥48 hours pre‑collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia; gross icterus is acceptable (Mayo).
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Ambient: 4 hours (per ARUP) or Room Temperature: 4 hours (Mayo) |
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Frozen | 90 days (Mayo) or Frozen: 3 months (ARUP) |