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Glutathione - Red cell

Glutathione - Red cell

The glutathione test is a diagnostic tool used to assess the redox status of red blood cells (RBCs) by measuring glutathione levels in whole blood. Glutathione, a tripeptide composed of cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid, plays a vital role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. The test requires a whole blood specimen collected in a yellow-top ACD-B or ACD-A tube, with a minimum volume of 100 μL. Proper specimen handling is crucial, as hemolyzed or clotted samples are rejected. The specimen remains stable at room temperature or refrigerated for up to 14 days, but only 7 days if frozen. Utilizing liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS), the test provides precise quantification of both reduced and oxidized glutathione forms. Clinically, it aids in diagnosing conditions like neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, favism, and glutathione synthetase deficiency. While offering valuable insights, results should be interpreted cautiously and confirmed with additional diagnostic procedures.

Price of test:£167

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £167

Awaiting result:

12 hours

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

Glutathione, a tripeptide of cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid, is vital for maintaining cellular redox balance. In red blood cells, it primarily exists in its reduced form (GSH), protecting against oxidative stress. Measuring glutathione in whole blood assesses RBC redox status, offering insights into health conditions.

- Specimen Requirements: Collect in a yellow-top ACD tube; invert 8-10 times. Minimum 100 μL, preferred 500 μL.
- Storage: Room temperature or refrigerated for 14 days; frozen for 7 days.
- Clinical Significance: Diagnoses neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, favism, hemolysis, and glutathione synthetase deficiency.

Who Should Get Tested

Glutathione, a tripeptide, is vital for maintaining cellular redox balance, especially in red blood cells (RBCs). Testing its levels in whole blood can reveal insights into various health conditions. Key points include:

- Specimen Requirements: Collect in a yellow-top ACD tube, ensuring proper mixing. Minimum volume: 100 μL.
- Storage: Room temperature or refrigerated for 14 days; frozen for 7 days.
- Clinical Significance: Useful in diagnosing conditions like neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, favism, and hemolytic anemia.
- Methodology: LC/MS-MS offers precise glutathione quantification.
- Interpretation: Results require cautious interpretation, considering other diagnostic procedures.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results for glutathione levels in whole blood is crucial for evaluating cellular redox status and potential oxidative stress. Key points include:

- Normal Values: No established reference for patients under 12 months. Healthy individuals typically have reduced glutathione (GSH) levels less than 25% of the mean normal value in certain deficiencies.
- Elevated Levels: May indicate conditions like pyrimidine-5’-nucleotidase deficiency or lead poisoning but can be nonspecific.
- Interpretation Caution: High white blood cell counts can falsely elevate results by up to 25%.
- Limitations: Results are investigational and should be confirmed with other diagnostic methods.

Price of test:£167

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £167

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