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Specimen Collection Manual and Test Catalog

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DOPAMINE, PLASMA

Geisinger Epic Procedure Code:  LAB1230    Geisinger Epic ID:  52845

SPECIMEN COLLECTION
Specimen type: 

Plasma


Preferred collection container: 
Alternate collection container: 
3 mL lavender-top (K2 EDTA) tube
Specimen required: 

2 mL plasma; minimum 1 mL


Special notes: 

Draw specimen in a pre-chilled green-top vacutainer.


Patient preparation: 

Patients should be relaxed in either a supine or upright position before blood is drawn. States of anxiety and stress can cause fluctuations in the catecholamine levels. Patient should avoid alcohol, coffee, tea, tobacco and strenuous exercise prior to collection. Overnight fasting is preferred.



SPECIMEN PROCESSING
Processing instructions: 

Plasma should be separated in a refrigerated centrifuge within 30 minutes of collection and then frozen immediately at -20° C in plastic vials.


Transport temperature: 

Frozen.


Specimen stability: 

Room temperature: 6 hours. Refrigerated: 6 hours. Frozen: 30 days.


Rejection criteria: 

Received room temperature • Received refrigerated • Gross hemolysis



TEST DETAILS
CPT code(s):  82542
Note: The billing party has sole responsibility for CPT coding.  Any questions regarding coding should be directed to the payer being billed.
The CPT codes provided by GML are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only.

Methodology: 
Chromatography
Synonyms: 

Quest test code 14762, Dopamine


Clinical significance: 

Dopamine is a catecholamine. Measurement is useful in patients with suspected pheochromocytoma, neuroblastoma, or paraganglioma.


Doctoral Director(s): 
Randin Nelson MD
Review Date:  02/29/2024

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