Allow serum separator tube (SST) contents to clot in an upright position for at least 30 minutes.
Centrifuge within 2 hours of collection.
Label a plastic transport tube with two identifiers. Acceptable identifiers include patient’s name, date of birth, social security number, requisition number, and medical record number. Label the tube as serum.
Transfer serum to the tube and refrigerate.
Storage Requirements
Refrigerated. Specimens are stable if refrigerated for 1 week or frozen for 8 days.
Causes for Rejections
Specimens with hemolysis or specimens with multiple freeze/thaw cycles are not accepted.
Turn Around Time
8 Days
CPT Code
86038, if reflex: 86039, 86235x8, 86160x2, 86431, 86225