Collect serum prior to initiation of corticosteroid or other immunosuppressive therapy. Collect serum from clotted blood in a non-additive tube (e.g. plain red top or serum separator). When possible, transfer clear serum off the clot into a new tube. Excessively hemolyzed samples are not acceptable for this test.
Collection Container
Glass or plastic tube with no anticoagulant additives.
Packing Instructions
Label all samples with unique identifiers.
For multiple samples, number tubes consecutively using a permanent marker or adhesive label. Include a list of sample names/numbers or the Excel specimen import spreadsheet with submittal form. Place the tubes in consecutive, numerical order in cardboard boxes designated for tubes. Do not submit loose in bags.
Use cold packs during hot weather, especially if shipping serum samples on the clot. Overnight shipping is recommended.
Special Instructions
This test is performed at the Comparative Neuromuscular Laboratory at University of California San Diego School of Medicine. Prices listed for tests performed outside TVMDL may not include referral lab accession fees and are subject to change without notice. A processing and forwarding fee is added to all referral tests. Turnaround times vary depending on shipping time and the referral lab's schedule.
