Phenobarbital

CPT Code: 80184
Order Code: 708
ABN Requirement: No
Alternative Name(s): Quandrinal™, Donnatal®, Luminal®
Specimen:
    Preferred: Serum
Alternative: EDTA Plasma
Volume:  1.0 mL
Minimum Volume:  0.5 mL
Container:
Preferred: Red Top Tube (no gel barrier)
Alternative: Lavender Top Tube (EDTA)

Collection:

Serum:

1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
2. Gently invert tube 5 times immediately after draw. Do not shake.
3. Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
4. Centrifuge specimen for 10 minutes.
5. Aliquot serum into transport tube labeled as “Red Top Serum” and cap tightly. Discard original tube.

EDTA Plasma:

1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
2. Gently invert tube 10 times immediately after draw. Do not shake.
3. Centrifuge specimen for 10 minutes.
4. Aliquot plasma into transport tube labeled as “EDTA Plasma” and cap tightly. Discard original tube.

Patient Preparation: Collect just prior to next dose.

Transport: Store serum or EDTA plasma at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.

Stability:

Ambient (15-25°C): 5 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): 30 days

Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than serum or EDTA plasma; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits; serum separator tube (SST)

Methodology: Immunoassay (IA)

Turn Around Time:  2 to 4 days

Reference Range:

Priority Values:

Clinical Significance: Phenobarbital is an anticonvulsant used for the long-term treatment of generalized tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures and cortical focal seizures. Phenobarbital levels are monitored to assure adequate therapeutic levels are achieved and to avoid toxicity.

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.