Vitamin D 25-OH
CPT Code(s):
82306
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:
24 hours
Refrigerated:
7 days
Frozen:
183 days
Clinical Significance
The Vitamin D, Total test has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in evaluating a patient's vitamin D status. Here are key points regarding its clinical significance:
1. Assessing Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and supporting various bodily functions. Vitamin D Total is used to measure the levels of both vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 in the blood, helping to diagnose and monitor vitamin D deficiency. Low levels of vitamin D may indicate a deficiency and the need for appropriate intervention.
2. Evaluating Bone Health: Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphate, which are necessary for healthy bones. Inadequate levels of vitamin D can lead to weakened bones and increased risk of fractures, especially in older adults. Vitamin D Total aids in evaluating bone health by assessing vitamin D status and determining if supplementation or lifestyle modifications are necessary.
3. Monitoring Treatment Response: Patients with vitamin D deficiency may require vitamin D supplementation to restore optimal levels. Vitamin D Total is useful in monitoring treatment response and ensuring that vitamin D levels reach the desired target range. It helps healthcare providers determine the effectiveness of the treatment regimen and adjust dosage if necessary.
4. Assessing Risk Factors for Chronic Diseases: Adequate vitamin D levels have been associated with a lower risk of various chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Vitamin D Total can help identify individuals at higher risk of these conditions due to vitamin D deficiency and guide preventive measures or targeted interventions.
5. Guiding Supplementation Strategies: Vitamin D requirements vary among individuals based on factors such as age, sun exposure, dietary intake, and underlying health conditions. Vitamin D Total can assist in determining the appropriate dosage and duration of vitamin D supplementation based on individual needs and helping to prevent both deficiency and excess levels.
In summary, Vitamin D Total is valuable in assessing vitamin D status, diagnosing vitamin D deficiency, and monitoring treatment response. It aids in evaluating bone health, identifying individuals at higher risk of chronic diseases, and guiding supplementation strategies. Adequate vitamin D levels are essential for overall health, and the test helps healthcare providers optimize vitamin D status and promote better patient outcomes.