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Test Code LAB134 Triglycerides

Important Note

For fasting levels: Infant fasting is 4 hours; children, 8 hours. If on TPN, turn off lipids for 4 hours before collection.

 

For non-fasting levels, NO holding of lipids or feeds is required; levels should be interpreted with regard to dietary status

Clinical System Name

Triglycerides

Sample Requirements

Specimen:  Whole Blood

Container(s): Lt. Green/Mint Top Lithium Heparin, Lt. Green/Lithium Heparin Microtainer, Gold SST, Gold Microtainer, Dark Green/Sodium Heparin, Red

Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL

Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL

 

Note:  Method is affected by glycerol (found in hand lotions).

Processing Instructions

Reject due to: Age of Specimen

Spin: Y

Aliquot: Y

Storage location: Core Chemistry Refrigerator

 

Notes: NEVER ultracetrifuge the sample!

Off-site collection: Patient should be fasting. Specimen should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Spin blood and transfer serum or plasma to plastic tube and refrigerate or freeze.

Stability

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Serum or Plasma RT

≤ 3 d
Serum or Plasma 2-4 C

≤ 7 d
Serum or Plasma -20 C or -70 C

≤ 180 d

Availability

STAT Performed TAT
Y 24/7 1 h

Performing Laboratory

Seattle Children's Laboratory    

Department

Department: Core Chemistry

Phone Number: 206-987-2617 (Client Services)

CPT Codes

84478

Methodology

Method: Colorimetric method by Vitros 4600

Analytical Volume:  0.02mL + 0.03 mL dead space

Reference Range

Fasting: 60 - 135 mg/dL

 

Description

Triglyceride concentrations vary with age and gender, with moderate increases found in growth and development. Triglycerides are used for the evaluation of hyperlipidemias; high concentrations may occur with hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, glycogen storage disease, and diabetes mellitus.  Extremely high triglyceride concentrations are common in acute pancreatitis.