Selenium, RBC
Use
This test measures the concentration of selenium within red blood cells, providing a reflection of longer-term selenium status compared to plasma or serum. It’s used to assess selenium deficiency or toxicity and monitor supplementation efficacy in clinical settings.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Specimens for elemental testing must be collected in certified metal-free containers. Elevated selenium levels may be due to environmental contamination at collection; unexpected elevated results should be verified with a second specimen collected in a trace-metal–free container.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
Selenium (RBC)
Analyte
LOINC Codes
- 5723-2 - Selenium RBC-mCnc
Result Turnaround Time
7-12 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
1 mL red blood cells
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Royal Blue Top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Collect a royal blue top (EDTA) tube via venipuncture. Separate plasma within two hours; discard plasma and retain RBCs; submit only RBCs.
Storage Instructions
Transport refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen received frozen; plasma present
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 30 days |
| Refrigerated | 30 days |
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