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Vitamin C

Test ID:

703157

CPT code:

82180

Synonyms:

Ascorbic Acid

C, Vitamin

Clinical Use:

Evaluation of vitamin C deficiency

Test Information:

Serum levels of vitamin C are an adequate measurement of clinical status. Vitamin C is a cofactor for protocollagen hydroxylase; it promotes the conversion of tropocollagen to collagen. Low values occur in scurvy, malabsorption, alcoholism, pregnancy, hyperthyroidism, and renal failure. Smokers have lower levels than nonsmokers. Patients with scurvy have values <0.2 mg/dL. Principal clinical findings in scurvy include bleeding gums, petechiae, follicular hyperkeratosis, perifollicular hemorrhages beginning on the lower thighs, muscle aches, easy fatiguability, and emotional changes.

Specimen Type:

Serum, frozen and protected from light

Requested Volume:

1 mL

Minimum Volume:

0.5 mL

Container Type:

Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube; amber plastic transport tube with amber top. (If amber tubes are unavailable, cover standard transport tube completely, top and bottom, with aluminum foil. Identify specimen with patient name directly on the container and on the outside of the aluminum foil. Secure with tape.)

Patient Preparation:

Overnight fasting is preferred. Refrain from taking vitamin C supplements or fruits 24 hours prior to sample collection.

Collection:

Draw in chilled tube. Separate serum from cells as soon as possible following collection. Keep specimen on ice. Transfer specimen to a plastic transport tube before freezing. Protect specimen from light. To avoid delays in turnaround time when requesting multiple tests on frozen samples, please submit separate frozen specimens for each test requested.

Storage Instructions:

Freeze immediately and protect from light.

Stability Requirements:

Stable for five days at -30°C and one month at -70°C. There is a 61% decrease in levels in the first 24 hours following collection if the sample is allowed to remain at room temperature.