Electrolyte Panel
CPT Code: 80051
Order Code: C905
Includes: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, and Carbon Dioxide
ABN Requirement: No
Synonyms: Lytes
Specimen: Serum
Volume: 0.5 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.3 mL
Container: Gel-barrier tube (SST, Tiger Top)
Collection:
- Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
- Gently invert tube 5 times immediately after draw. DO NOT SHAKE.
- Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
- Centrifuge for 10 minutes.
Transport: Store serum at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions provided with the Cleveland HeartLab shipping box.
Stability:
Ambient (15-25°C): 7 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): >14 days
Deep Frozen (-70°C): >14 days
Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than serum; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits
Methodology: Ion Specific Electrode (ISE) test, Photometric. Refer to individual test for methodology used.
Turn Around Time: 1 to 3 days
Clinical Significance: This panel comprises a group of 4 tests that provide information on an individual’s electrolytes, acid-base, and water balance. The panel is usually ordered during hospital and emergency room admission to help diagnose a range of conditions as well as monitor certain conditions or treatments that affect electrolyte balance [1,2].
Symptoms and signs of electrolyte, acid-base, and water imbalance may include dehydration, edema, vomiting, weakness, confusion, and cardiac arrhythmias. These imbalances may be associated with kidney diseases, respiratory distress, and metabolic disorders [1,2]. The results of the panel components are usually evaluated jointly for patterns. The section below outlines the roles of the analytes assessed with this panel [1,2].
Sodium: An electrolyte that plays a central role in maintaining the normal distribution of water and appropriate pressure to assure that substances do not leak from cells and organs. Sodium measurements are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases involving electrolyte imbalance.
Potassium: An electrolyte that is essential for proper muscle and nerve function and helps keep the balance of fluids. Potassium measurements are useful in assessing electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions characterized by low or high blood potassium levels.
Chloride: An electrolyte that helps maintain volume, acidity, and electrical neutrality of the body fluids. Chloride measurements are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of electrolyte and metabolic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis and diabetic acidosis.
Carbon dioxide (bicarbonate): A type of blood gas used to evaluate the total carbonate buffering system and acid-base balance. Carbon dioxide is generally evaluated with other common electrolytes; the measurements are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of numerous potentially serious disorders associated with changes in body acid-base balance.
References
1. Electrolytes and anion gap. Testing.com. Accessed January 6, 2022. https://www.testing.com/tests/electrolytes-and-anion-gap/
2. Rao LV, et al. Laboratory tests. In: Rao LV, eds. Wallach’s Interpretation of Diagnostic Tests. Pathways to Arriving at a Clinical Diagnosis. 11th ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2020.
Limitations: Grossly hemolyzed or lipemic specimens may produce false results. Refer to individual tests for preanalytical issues that may contribute to false test results.
Additional Information: Some medications, injuries, or disease states may produce false results. Refer to individual tests for preanalytical issues that may contribute to false test results.
Refer to individual test for appropriate sample collection, handling and testing information.
The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.