| Laboratory: | Clinical Biochemistry |
| Test Name: |
LITHIUM - (S)
Test Code:
LI
|
| Clinical Information: |
Lithium is widely used as lithium carbonate for the treatment of manic depressive psychosis. Serum lithium concentrations are measured to ensure compliance and to avoid toxicity. Reduced renal function can prolong clearance time as lithium is cleared through the kidneys.
|
| Collection Devices: |
Preferred Device:
Lithium heparin tubes are not acceptable and will affect analysis.
|
| Specimen Required: |
Serum: 2.0 mL
Collect blood 12-14 hours after last dose or within 45 minutes before next dose. Stability 7 days refrigerated, 6 months frozen |
| Referral: |
Serum: 2.0 mL
Samples must be transferred to an aliquot tube and stored frozen if analysis will not be complete within 48 hours (#110-10-05 Serum / Plasma Separation Procedure & Transport)
|
| Requisition: | |
| Reference Values: |
Therapeutic: 0.60-1.20 mmol/L
Toxic: >1.50 mmol/L |
| Availability: |
Stat or Routine
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| See Also: | |
| More Information: |