Digoxin

CPT Code: 80162
Order Code: 418
ABN Requirement: No
Synonyms: Lanoxin
Specimen:
Preferred: Serum
Alternate: EDTA Plasma or Lithium Heparin Plasma
Volume:  1.0 mL
Minimum Volume:  0.5 mL
Container:
Preferred: serum (R, red-top tube (no gel))
Acceptable: plasma (GN, green-top tube, sodium or lithium heparin) or (L, lavender-top tube, EDTA), or (GY, gray-top tube, fluoride oxalate)

Collection:

Serum:

1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
2. Gently invert tube 5 times immediately after draw. Do not shake.
3. Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
4. Centrifuge for 10 minutes.
5. Aliquot serum into transport tube labeled “Red Top Serum” and cap tightly.

EDTA (Lavender Top) or Lithium Heparin (Green Top) Plasma:

1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
2. Gently invert tube 8 to 10 times immediately after draw. Do not shake.
3. Centrifuge for 10 minutes.
4. Aliquot EDTA or Lithium Heparin plasma into transport tube labeled “EDTA Plasma” or “Lithium Heparin Plasma” (as appropriate) and cap tightly.

Patient Preparation: Collect as a trough just prior to next dose.

Transport: Store serum at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.

Stability:

Ambient (15-25°C): 5 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 10 days
Frozen (-20°C): 30 days

Causes for Rejection: Serum Separator Tube (SST)

Methodology: Immunoassay (IA)

Turn Around Time: 2 to 3 days

Reference Range:

Priority Values:

Clinical Significance: Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside derived from the digitalis plant. It is used to treat congestive heart failure and atrial dysrhythmias. Digoxin levels are monitored to assure adequate therapeutic levels are achieved and to avoid toxicity.

The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.