SEROTONIN REL
Serotonin Release Assay
EPIC Test Procedure Code: LAB4022
Synonyms:
Unfractionated Heparin-Dependent Platelet Antibody
Performing Lab:
Referral Laboratory
Container Type:
Red top or serum gel tube
Specimen Type:
Serum
Preferred Volume:
1.0 mL
Minimum Volume:
0.5 mL
Specimen Processing:
Transfer serum to a plastic transport tube.
Store and Transport:
Frozen
Unacceptable Condition:
Specimens received room temperature; grossly hemolyzed, icteric, and lipemic samples.
CPT Codes:
82542x2 - Serotonin Release Assay (EAP 99935081)
Method:
The SRA employs washed donor platelets and detects their activation by measuring the release of endogenous serotonin induced by addition of patient serum. The serotonin levels are measured by a highly sensitive liquid chromatography/ tandem mass spectroscopy method. Therapeutic levels of heparin included in the assay mix allow for the formation of PF4/heparin complexes on the donor platelet surface to provide an antigen target for the HIT antibodies.The specificity of the assay is increased by assessing the inhibition of platelet activation by adding heparin in excess, thus proving the heparin dependency of the serotoninrelease.