Phencyclidine (PCP), Confirmation
CPT Code(s):
83992
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 Phencyclidine (PCP) test with quantitative results, using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS), has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in detecting and measuring the levels of PCP in a patient's system. PCP is a dissociative hallucinogenic drug that can cause severe psychological and physical effects.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of PCP include:
1. Substance Abuse Screening: The test is primarily used to screen for the presence of PCP in patients suspected of substance abuse or exposure to the drug. It is commonly employed in addiction treatment programs, emergency departments, workplace drug testing, and forensic toxicology.
2. Accurate Quantification: LC/MS-MS allows for accurate and precise measurement of PCP levels in biological samples, such as blood or urine. Quantitative results provide valuable information regarding the concentration of PCP in the patient's system, enabling healthcare providers to assess the extent of drug exposure.
3. Confirmation of PCP Use: PCP with quantitative results can confirm the presence of PCP in cases where initial screening tests, such as immunoassays, provide positive results. Confirmation is particularly important when legal or disciplinary actions are involved or when making critical treatment decisions.
4. Monitoring PCP Levels: The test can be used to monitor PCP levels over time, such as during substance abuse treatment or rehabilitation programs. Regular monitoring helps assess patient compliance, adjust treatment plans, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.
5. Forensic Investigations: PCP using LC/MS-MS has forensic applications, aiding in the detection and quantification of PCP in legal and criminal investigations. It can provide crucial evidence in cases related to drug-facilitated crimes or impaired driving incidents.
6. Research and Pharmacokinetics: The test is valuable in research studies and pharmacokinetic investigations, allowing researchers to study the metabolism, distribution, and elimination of PCP in various populations or under specific conditions. This information contributes to a better understanding of PCP's effects and aids in the development of treatment strategies.
It is important to note that quantitative results from PCP using LC/MS-MS provide accurate measurements of PCP levels, enhancing the clinical interpretation and decision-making process.
In summary, PCP with quantitative results using LC/MS-MS is clinically significant in screening and confirming PCP use, monitoring drug levels, and contributing to forensic investigations. Accurate measurement of PCP levels assists healthcare providers in making informed treatment decisions, evaluating patient compliance, and supporting legal or disciplinary proceedings when necessary. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers and laboratory professionals are essential in interpreting the test results accurately and providing appropriate patient care.