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Test Code LACT Lactic Acid, Venous

Additional Codes

EPIC LAB4134

Clinical Significance

Lactic acid is a metabolite produced by the breakdown of glucose. The skeletal muscles and the red blood cells are the major lactic acid producers. The main cuase of high lactic acid concentration is hypoxia. The high lactic acid concentration is not dangerous in itself but the underlying condition causing the elevated lactic level is.

Methodology

The cLac electrode is an amperometric electrode consisting of a silver cathode with AgCl reference band and a platinum anode, all protected by an electrode jacket filled with electrolyte solution. At the tip of the jacket is a multilayer membrane. In the lactate electrode, an electrical chain is established between the platinum wire and the Ag/AgCl reference band via the electrolyte. Lactate molecules are transported across the outer membrane to be converted by the enzyme to form H2O2. The H2O2 is then oxidized to oxygen and electrons, a current measured by an ammeter. The amount of current produced is proportional to the amount of H2O2, which is turn is directly related to the amount of lactic acid in the sample.

Sample Type

Preferred Sample Type
Dark green top - Heparanized whole blood

Centrifuge: No

Specimen Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Specimen Stability

Temperature Time
Ambient (18-25°C) 30 minutes
Refrigerated (2-8°C) N/A
Frozen (-15 to -20°C) N/A

Analyze without delay.

Reference Ranges

Normal Range
Age Units (mmol/L)
0 to 18 years old 0.5 - 2.0
>18 years old 0.5 - 2.0

 

 

Critical Values
Age Units (mmol/L)
0 to 18 years old >4.0
>18 years old >3.3

Rejection Criteria

Hemolysis N/A
Icterus N/A
Lipemia N/A

Reject samples:

  • Collected on ice.
  • With air bubbles.
  • With clots.
  • Older than 30 minutes.

Availability

Performed STAT
24/7 Yes

 

Performing Laboratory

MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital Laboratory

Lab Department

Chemistry

CPT Code

83605

LOINC

2519-7 Lactate (BldV) [Moles/Vol]

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