Sign in →

Test Code LAB3847 Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (NGAL)

Important Note

This test is only available to Seattle Children's Hospital providers, inpatient orders only.

Clinical System Name

NGAL, Urine

Sample Requirements

Specimen: Urine

Container(s): Sterile, screw-capped container preferred. Clean container also acceptable.

Preferred Vol: 2.0 mL

Minimum Vol: 1.0 mL

 

Note: Do not use cotton balls or gauze to collect specimen. Do not squeeze urine from diapers.

For bagged urines: Aspirate urine sample from bag using a sterile needleless syringe and place in sterile specimen cup before sending to the lab.

 

Processing Instructions

Reject due to: Insufficient quantity, incorrect storage temperature, age of specimen, gross contamination, specimens collected with cotton balls or gauze, specimens obtained from diapers, specimens sent in any preservative solution

Spin: N

Aliquot: N

Temp: Room Temperature

Storage Location: Core 5 Fridge

 

Off-site Collection: Inpatient orders only

Stability

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Urine Room Temp 24 h
Urine Refrigerated 2 w
Urine Frozen 2 w

 

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

83520

Methodology

Method: Immunoturbidimetric assay on Vitros 4600

Analytical Volume: 0.03 mL + 0.03 mL dead space

 

Description

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is an iron-transporting protein that is secreted mostly by immune cells.  It is released from the distal tube in the kidneys, and elevated urinary concentration is associated with acute kidney injury due to increased synthesis and decreased reabsorption, depending on the specific injury to the renal tubules.

Reference Ranges

Value (ng/mL) Interpretation

≤ 50

 Low risk of acute kidney injury
51 - 149 Equivocal results - recommend repeat testing if clinically indicated
150 - 300 Elevated NGAL suggest high risk for structural tubular kidney injury
> 300 Elevated NGAL suggests high risk for severe structural tubular kidney injury