Insulin

CPT Code(s):
83525

Turnaround Time:
4 hours

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen:
Serum

Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL

Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube

Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature

Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.

Rejection Criteria:
Plasma specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling

Stability Criteria

Room Temperature:
2 hours

Refrigerated:
24 hours

Frozen:
30 days

Clinical Significance

Insulin holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in assessing insulin levels in a patient's blood. It plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of various metabolic disorders, particularly diabetes mellitus.

The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of Insulin include:

1. Diabetes Diagnosis: Insulin testing is used to diagnose different types of diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the test helps determine the absence or extremely low levels of insulin production by the pancreas. In type 2 diabetes, insulin levels can be measured to assess insulin resistance and the body's ability to produce and utilize insulin effectively.

2. Insulin Therapy Monitoring: For individuals with diabetes who require insulin therapy, regular monitoring of insulin levels is essential to ensure appropriate dosing and treatment efficacy. The test helps healthcare providers adjust insulin doses, timing, or administration methods to achieve optimal glycemic control and prevent complications.

3. Insulinoma Evaluation: Insulinomas are rare tumors of the pancreas that secrete excess insulin, leading to low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). Insulin is used to confirm the diagnosis of insulinoma by measuring abnormally high insulin levels in the blood.

4. Evaluation of Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body's cells have reduced sensitivity to the action of insulin. Insulin testing, along with other glucose and lipid markers, can aid in assessing insulin resistance and the risk of metabolic syndrome, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes.

5. Research and Clinical Trials: Insulin testing is employed in research studies and clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness of new drugs, interventions, or treatment strategies aimed at improving insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and diabetes management.

Interpretation of Insulin results should consider the patient's clinical context, including their fasting or postprandial state and concurrent glucose levels. Additionally, it is important to note that insulin levels can vary throughout the day, reflecting the body's dynamic regulation of glucose metabolism.

In summary, Insulin is specifically used for diabetes diagnosis, monitoring insulin therapy, evaluating insulinomas, assessing insulin resistance, and supporting research and clinical trials. It plays a vital role in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of metabolic disorders, particularly diabetes mellitus. Close collaboration between healthcare providers and patients is crucial to interpret the test results accurately and implement appropriate treatment plans.