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HelpTest Code DCP Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin, Serum
Ordering Guidance
For diagnostic use, this test is most cost-effective for at-risk patients with normal levels of total and L3 alpha fetoprotein in serum. For more information see L3AFP / Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) L3% and Total, Hepatocellular Carcinoma Tumor Marker, Serum.
Specimen Required
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Serum gel
Acceptable: Red top
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
CMH COLLECTION: 1mL blood in a vacutainer Preferred: Red gel Acceptable: Red
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serum | Frozen (preferred) | 90 days | |
| Refrigerated | 7 days | ||
| Ambient | 72 hours |
Useful For
Risk assessment of patients with chronic liver disease for development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
Aiding in the monitoring of HCC patients post therapy if the des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin level was elevated prior to therapy
Reject Due To
| Gross hemolysis | Reject |
| Gross lipemia | OK |
| Gross icterus | OK |
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Report Available
1 to 4 daysReporting Name
Des-Gamma-Carboxy Prothrombin, SReference Values
<7.5 ng/mL
Method Name
Isotachophoresis with Laser-Induced Fluorescence
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
CPT Code Information
83951