Opiates, Screen
CPT Code(s):
80307
Turnaround Time:
8 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
Opiates Screen is a commonly used immunoassay-based test that has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in detecting the presence of opiates in a patient's system. Opiates are a class of drugs derived from the opium poppy plant or synthetic substances that act on opioid receptors in the central nervous system, producing analgesic and sedative effects.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of Opiates Screen include:
1. Drug Monitoring: Opiates Screen is used to monitor patients who are prescribed opioids for pain management or undergoing opioid therapy. It helps healthcare providers ensure that patients are taking their medications as prescribed and detect any illicit or unauthorized use of opiates.
2. Substance Abuse Screening: The test is employed as a screening tool to identify individuals who may be misusing or abusing opiates, including illicit drugs such as heroin. It is commonly used in various settings, such as workplaces, addiction treatment centers, and criminal justice systems, to detect opiate use and initiate appropriate interventions.
3. Forensic Investigations: Opiates Screen plays a critical role in forensic toxicology, particularly in cases where opiate use or abuse is suspected. It can provide objective evidence of opiate exposure or ingestion, helping to support legal proceedings, workplace drug testing, or investigations related to drug-related incidents.
4. Clinical Decision-making: The test results guide healthcare providers in making informed clinical decisions regarding pain management, medication adjustments, or addiction treatment plans. By detecting the presence of opiates, the test helps ensure patient safety, prevent potential drug interactions, and minimize the risks associated with opiate use.
It's important to note that Opiates Screen using immunoassay provides rapid and preliminary results. However, it is a qualitative test that only indicates the presence or absence of opiates. If the test is positive, confirmatory testing using more specific and sensitive methods, such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS), is typically performed for accurate identification and quantification of specific opiates present in the sample.
In summary, Opiates Screen using immunoassay is valuable in monitoring patients on opioid therapy, screening for opiate misuse or abuse, supporting forensic investigations, and guiding clinical decision-making. While the test provides rapid results, confirmatory testing may be necessary for definitive identification and quantification of specific opiates. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, laboratory professionals, and relevant stakeholders are essential for accurate interpretation of test results and appropriate patient care.