|
A metabolic screen is a battery of simple tests that is
performed on urine specimens to detect the possibility of a metabolic disorder.
These tests are not specific and are used only as screening tests. The
metabolic screen includes the following:
- Benedict's test (reducing sugars)
- Dinitrophenylhydrazine test (keto acids)
- Toluidine blue spot test (mucopolysaccharides)
- Nitroprusside test (cystine, homocystine)
- Nitrosonaphthol test (tyrosine metabolites)
- Ferric chloride test (phenylalanine and histidine
metabolites)
Specimen required: Urine (at least 10 ml)
Transport: Frozen on dry ice by 24-hour delivery.
The sample may be transported at ambient temperature if it is delivered to the
lab on the same day it is collected.
Standard of Analysis: Six screening tests are
employed: ferric chloride, nitrosonaphthol, nitroprusside, Benedict's test,
dinitrophenylhydrazine test, and toluidine blue spot test. These are
screening tests and do not necessarily confirm or exclude a particular
diagnosis. Results are compared to negative and positive controls run
concurrently.
Time required: analysis is usually completed the day
after receiving the specimen.
Reports: Written reports with interpretation are
mailed to the referring physician and when an abnormality is detected the report
will also be telephoned to the referring physician.
Special requests: Other tests for metabolic disorders
are available and may be appropriate following the screening test. Special
requests or questions should be directed to the laboratory.
CPT Code: 84377, 83866, 84035, 84510, 81005
|
