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Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry
Test Name:
LITHIUM - (S)
Test Code: LI
Clinical Information:
Collect blood 12-14 hours after last dose or within 45 minutes before next dose.
For more information see:

Test Indications:
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:
Lithium heparin tubes are not acceptable and will affect analysis.
Specimen Required:


Serum: 2.0 mL

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
See Also:
More Information:
Specimens should be separated from cells if storage for more than 4 hours is anticipated.
Refrigerate sample.