Cotinine, Confirmation
CPT Code(s):
80323
Turnaround Time:
24 - 72 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Urine
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Yellow Top Tube or Sterile Cup
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Collect urine in plastic container and transfer to plain yellow top tube (without preservative).
Rejection Criteria:
Specimen received outside stability requirements; Excessive blood, particulates, viscosity present
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
24 hours
Refrigerated:
7 days
Frozen:
30 days
Clinical Significance
Cotinine with quantitative results using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of tobacco use assessment and monitoring. Cotinine is a metabolite of nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco, and its measurement provides objective evidence of tobacco exposure.
The clinical significance and diagnostic use of Cotinine with quantitative results include:
1. Tobacco Use Assessment: Cotinine is utilized to assess tobacco use in individuals. Nicotine from tobacco products is rapidly metabolized into cotinine, which can be detected in various biological samples, such as urine, blood, or saliva. Quantitative measurement of cotinine levels provides an accurate assessment of tobacco exposure, including cigarette smoking, e-cigarette use, or exposure to secondhand smoke.
2. Verification of Self-Reported Tobacco Use: Cotinine helps validate self-reported tobacco use information provided by individuals. Some individuals may underreport or deny tobacco use, but cotinine levels provide an objective measure of exposure. This is particularly valuable in healthcare settings, research studies, or insurance assessments where accurate tobacco use information is essential.
3. Tobacco Cessation Programs: Cotinine aids in tobacco cessation programs by confirming abstinence from tobacco use. Quantitative cotinine levels can demonstrate successful quitting and support individuals in their efforts to quit smoking or using other tobacco products. Monitoring cotinine levels over time helps assess progress, adjust treatment plans, and provide support for relapse prevention.
4. Occupational and Insurance Testing: Cotinine is commonly used in occupational health and insurance settings to assess tobacco use. Some occupations or insurance policies may have tobacco use restrictions or higher premiums for tobacco users. Cotinine testing provides objective evidence of tobacco exposure and helps determine compliance with policies or eligibility for certain benefits.
5. Research and Epidemiological Studies: Cotinine plays a crucial role in research and epidemiological studies focused on understanding tobacco use patterns, secondhand smoke exposure, or the impact of tobacco control policies. Quantitative cotinine measurements allow for more precise and reliable data on tobacco exposure, facilitating accurate analysis and interpretation of study findings.
6. Clinical Management of Tobacco-Related Conditions: Cotinine can assist in the clinical management of tobacco-related conditions. For example, cotinine levels may be used to assess the impact of tobacco exposure on certain medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or respiratory disorders. This information can guide treatment decisions and interventions aimed at reducing tobacco use and minimizing associated health risks.
In summary, Cotinine with quantitative results using LC/MS-MS has specific clinical significance in assessing tobacco use, validating self-reported information, supporting tobacco cessation programs, occupational and insurance testing, research and epidemiological studies, and clinical management of tobacco-related conditions. By measuring cotinine levels, this test provides objective data on tobacco exposure, enabling healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers to make informed decisions, implement effective interventions, and promote tobacco control efforts for better public health outcomes.