Test Directory

Test Code
SACE
Test Name
Acetone, Semiquantitative
CPT Codes
82009
Expected Turnaround Time
1 day
Clinical Utility

Can be used in the evaluation of alcoholic ketoacidosis, starvation and uncontrolled blood glucose in diabetics. Used for the detection of acetone and acetoacetic acid only.

Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Types: Serum or Plasma

Collection Containers:

  • Gold Top, Serum Separator
  • Light Green Top, Plasma Separator
  • Dark Green Top (Lithium Heparin)

Minimum Acceptable Volume: 0.4 mL

Processing and Submission Instructions

Separator tubes: Contains clot activator and gel for separating serum from cells, but not anticoagulant. Separate serum from cells as soon as the clot has formed (30 minutes). If specimen is centrifuged before clotting is complete, a fibrin clot will form on top of the cell. This may cause the gel barrier to not be intact and could cause improper separation of serum and cells, possibly affecting test results.

Tubes with anticoagulant: To ensure accurate test results, all tubes containing an anticoagulant or preservative must be allowed to fill completely. Attempts to force more blood into the tube by exerting pressure, as in collection with a syringe, will result in damage to the red cells (hemolysis).

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

Stability Requirements

Refrigerated

48 hours

Methodology
Nitroprusside Reaction
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily