Test Overview
Clinical Utility
Somatostatin is a neurohormone produced in the brain, hypothalamus and gastrointestinal tract. This test is used to diagnose somatostatin-producing tumors. Elevated levels are observed with somatostatinoma, medullary thyroid carcinoma and pheochromocytoma.
Method
Immunoassay (IA)
Method Description
Extraction + Immunoassay
Result Included
Somatostatin
Specimen
Specimen Type
Plasma (EDTA)
Containers
Preferred Containers
Plasma (EDTA lavender top)
Volume
Sample Volume
1.8 mL
Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Specimen Comment
Navy blue top EDTA plasma is not acceptable.
Collection & Handling
Collection Instructions
Collect specimen in a pre-chilled tube.
Handling Information
Separate and freeze immediately. Do not thaw. Store and send frozen.
Stability
| Ambient | Refrigerated | Frozen |
|---|---|---|
| 8 hours | 8 hours | 28 days |
Rejection Criteria
| Criteria | Specification |
|---|---|
| Hemolysis | Gross |
| Lipemia | Gross |
| Other | Grossly icteric |
| Specimen | Royal blue top tube |
Performance & Interpretation
Turnaround Time
12 days
Results
Name
Units
Reference Range
Conversion
-
Somatostatinpg/mLAdult: ≤30
Referral Location
Out-of-Country
Test Version
Last Updated
2019-09-30