Test Directory

Evaluate the enterohepatic cycle consisting of the biliary system, intestine, portal circulation, and hepatocytes

Specimen Type: Serum

Alternate Specimen Type: Plasma

Collection Container: Red Top, Plain

Alternate Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator, Lavender Top (EDTA) or Green Top (Lithium Heparin)

Desired Specimen Volume: 1 mL

1. Collect a red top, plain tube via venipuncture.

1. Separate serum from cells.
2. Transfer 1 mL of serum to a LabCorp PP transpak frozen purple tube.
3. To avoid delays in turnaround time when requesting multiple tests on frozen samples, please submit separate frozen specimens for each test requested.

Patient should be fasting; however, a two-hour postprandial level has been used in order to evaluate hepatic function after the gallbladder has been completely emptied (ie, challenge the liver with a high level of bile acids in the portal circulation). For women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy who need peak bile acid testing, samples may be taken postprandially.

Transport to the laboratory frozen.

See patient report.

Specimens from patients who are on Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA) treatment are not suitable for use with this assay. Instead, use Bile Acids, Fractionated and Total, LC/MS-MS

• Glyco and Taurochenodeoxycholic Acid