Vitamin C |
Ordering information: | Vitamin C levels in plasma are depleted rapidly, and rarely, if ever reflect tissue stores. Tissue vitamin C assays are unreliable, and not offered in Australia.
The most common cause for a low vitamin C result is preanalytical malfeasance. True Vitmain C deficiency is rare. Please pay particular attention to collection instructions: if not followed, sample will be rejected. |
Alternate names: | Ascorbate, Ascorbic Acid |
Laboratory: | Referred Test |
Test Code: | VITC |
Specimen types: | Plasma |
Container types: | | Lithium heparin no gel |  |
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Collection Instructions: | Transport ON ICE IMMEDIATELY to lab
Use a water-ice slurry to pre-cool the collection tube, then to transport to laboratory within 20 minutes.
Wrap specimen in foil immediately to protect from light.
Transport to laboratory immediately, in water-ice slurry - do not use pneumatic tube. |
Minimum Adult Volume: | 1 mL |
Paediatric Minimum Volume: | 1 mL |
Notes: | Consult dietitian before requesting vitamin assays on inpatients.
Specimens for vitamin assays must be taken before dietary changes are implemented |
Frequency: | Weekly |
Laboratory Use Only |
Accessing Results
EMR: Pathology results are available via EMR.
Auscare: If EMR is unavailable, results can be accessed through Auscare. Don’t have an Auscare login? Complete the Auscare User Form.
To access Auscare, see instructions.
Forms & Collection Guides
Consent Form – Non-Medicare Tests
For tests not covered by Medicare. Download Form
Pathology Request Form
Printable referral form for submitting pathology requests. Download Form.
Microbiology Swab Collection Guide
Step-by-step instructions for correct swab collection. Download Guide.
Preferred Order of Draw
Instructions to ensure accurate blood collection and results. View Instructions
Feedback
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