Test Code TRIG TRIGLYCERIDES
Methodology
Colorimetric
Useful for evaluation of risk factors in individuals with elevated cholesterol values. Since cholesterol and triglycerides can vary independently, measurement of both is more meaningful than the measurement of cholesterol only.
Specimen Requirements
Submit only 1 of the following specimens:
Preferred:
Serum
Serum Gel Tube
Container/Tube: Serum gel tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of
serum
Collection Instructions: Fasting (9-12 hours). Spin down within 4 hours of draw.
Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).
Alternate:
Serum
Plain, Red-Top Tube
Container/Tube: Plain, red-top tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of
serum
Collection Instructions: Fasting (9-12 hours). Spin down within 4 hours of draw.
Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).
Alternate:
Plasma
Container/Tube: Green-top (lithium heparin) tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of plasma
Collection Instructions: Fasting (9-12 hours). Spin down within 4 hours of draw.
Note: Label specimen appropriately (plasma).
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Reference Values
Optimal: <150 mg/dL
Borderline high: 150-199 mg/dL
High: 200-499 mg/dL
Very high: >500 mg/dL
Note: Free (nonesterified) glycerol in serum is measured along with the glycerol from the hydrolysis of triglycerides and diglycerides. Certain clinical conditions (eg, diabetes mellitus and cardiac ischemia) show high endogenous free glycerol levels. Some drugs used in the treatment of lipemia also produce elevated glycerol levels. Triglyceride results from samples of such patients will not reflect actual serum triglyceride content.
Performing Laboratory
Logan Health Medical Center-Chemistry
Test Classification and CPT Coding
84478
Specimen Transport Temperature
Refrigerate