Obstetric Panel

CPT Code(s):
80055

Turnaround Time:
48 hours

Specimen Requirements

Preferred Specimen:
Serum and Whole Blood

Minimum Volume:
8.0 mL Serum; 6.0 mL Whole Blood

Transport Container:
Serum Seperator Tube (SST) (2) and Lavender Top Tube (EDTA) (2)

Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature

Collection Instructions:
Serum: Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection. Whole Blood: Collected in lavender EDTA tube; inverted several times to mix blood with anticoagulant.

Rejection Criteria:
Improper labeling; specimen received in expired transport media; specimen received after prolonged delay (usually more than 48 hours)

Stability Criteria

Room Temperature:
8 hours

Refrigerated:
48 hours

Frozen:
Unacceptable

Clinical Significance

Obstetric Panel has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in assessing the health and well-being of pregnant individuals and their developing fetus. It is a comprehensive panel of tests designed to provide valuable information about the mother's health, identify potential risks or complications, and monitor the baby's growth and development throughout the pregnancy.

The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Obstetric Panel include:

1. Early Detection of Pregnancy: Obstetric Panel typically includes a for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is used to confirm pregnancy. It helps healthcare providers determine the gestational age and establish appropriate prenatal care plans.

2. Maternal Health Assessment: The panel often includes tests to evaluate the mother's general health and identify any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect the pregnancy. This may include tests such as complete blood count (CBC), blood typing and Rh factor, hepatitis B surface antigen, syphilis screening, HIV testing, and rubella immunity status.

3. Fetal Development and Well-being: Obstetric Panel may includes such as ultrasound, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and other markers to assess the baby's growth and development, screen for chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome), and detect neural tube defects. These tests help healthcare providers monitor the fetal health and identify any potential issues that may require further evaluation or intervention.

4. Monitoring for Gestational Diabetes: The panel may include tests such as glucose tolerance tests or hemoglobin A1c to screen for gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes can pose risks to both the mother and baby, and early detection allows for appropriate management and intervention to ensure optimal outcomes.

5. Assessment of Maternal Immunity: The panel may include tests to assess the mother's immunity to certain infectious diseases, such as varicella-zoster virus (chickenpox), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and toxoplasmosis. This information helps identify potential risks and guide counseling and preventive measures to protect both the mother and the baby.

6. Monitoring Hormonal Levels: The panel may include tests to assess hormone levels, such as progesterone and estrogen, which play critical roles in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Monitoring these levels can help identify hormonal imbalances and guide appropriate interventions.

The specific tests included in the Obstetric Panel may vary depending on the healthcare provider's preferences and the patient's individual needs. The panel aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the mother's health and the baby's development, enabling early detection of potential issues and facilitating appropriate management and care throughout the pregnancy.

In summary, Obstetric Panel has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in assessing the health and well-being of pregnant individuals and their developing fetus. It includes a range of tests to evaluate maternal health, monitor fetal development, screen for potential complications, and guide appropriate interventions. Collaboration between healthcare providers and laboratory professionals is crucial for accurate interpretation of the test results and providing optimal care to pregnant individuals.