MDMA, Confirmation
CPT Code(s):
80359
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
The MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) test with quantitative results using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in measuring the concentration of MDMA or its metabolites in a patient's biological sample. MDMA is a recreational drug commonly known as ecstasy or molly, and it is associated with both therapeutic and illicit use.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of MDMA include:
1. Drug Monitoring: MDMA helps monitor and assess the presence and concentration of MDMA or its metabolites in patients who are prescribed MDMA-based medications or are known to use MDMA recreationally. Monitoring drug levels aids healthcare providers in optimizing therapeutic outcomes, ensuring medication compliance, and identifying potential drug misuse or overdose.
2. Toxicology Screening: MDMA is employed in toxicology screening, particularly in emergency situations where MDMA intoxication is suspected. Quantitative results help confirm the presence and quantity of MDMA or its metabolites in the patient's system, contributing to the accurate diagnosis and appropriate medical management of MDMA-related toxicity.
3. Forensic and Legal Investigations: MDMA plays a crucial role in forensic and legal settings. It provides objective evidence of MDMA use or exposure, assisting law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and legal professionals in investigating drug-related incidents, conducting workplace drug testing, or providing evidence in legal proceedings.
4. Research and Epidemiology: Quantitative MDMA testing using LC/MS-MS contributes to research and epidemiological studies aimed at understanding patterns of MDMA use, assessing drug trends, and evaluating the impact of MDMA on public health. Such data can inform policy decisions, preventive strategies, and public health interventions related to MDMA use.
Interpretation of the quantitative results of MDMA should consider the patient's clinical context, drug history, and the specific MDMA metabolites detected. The timing of sample collection is also important, as MDMA and its metabolites have different elimination half-lives. Additionally, it is essential to interpret the test results in conjunction with clinical symptoms, other laboratory findings, and information obtained through patient interviews.
In summary, MDMA with quantitative results using LC/MS-MS is specifically used for drug monitoring, toxicology screening, forensic and legal investigations, and research purposes. It provides valuable information about the presence and concentration of MDMA or its metabolites, aiding healthcare providers, forensic experts, and researchers in various aspects related to MDMA use and exposure. Close collaboration between laboratory professionals, healthcare providers, and other relevant stakeholders is crucial for accurate interpretation of the test results and appropriate patient management.