Glucagon
Also known as: Pancreatic Hypercalcemic Factor
Use
Measurement of plasma glucagon is useful in evaluating disorders of glucose metabolism, including suspecting glucagon-secreting tumors (e.g., glucagonoma), diagnosing hypoglycemia, assessing glucagon deficiency, and guiding management of diabetes mellitus and other carbohydrate metabolism disorders. It can help in distinguishing causes of hypoglycemia and aid assessment of pancreatic alpha-cell function.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Not provided.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
3-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube (chilled)
Collection Instructions
Collect in lavender‑top (EDTA) tube chilled via venipuncture; separate plasma, transfer 1 mL to appropriate frozen transport tube
Patient Preparation
Overnight fasting for basal levels; patient should not be stressed; diabetic patients should be in good control before draw; stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior
Storage Instructions
Submit frozen
Causes for Rejection
Lipemia; Hemolysis or icterus; Non‑EDTA plasma; Nonfrozen sample
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Frozen | 7 days |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant