Complement Component Level 4A
Test Mnemonic
COMP4A
CPT Codes
- 86160 - QTY (1)
Aliases
- Complement C4a
- C4a
- C4AL
Performing Laboratory
National Jewish Health
Specimen Requirements
| Volume | Type | Container | Collect Temperature | Transport Temperature | Special Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 mL | Plasma | EDTA (Lavender) | Frozen, Critical | Critical Frozen. Mix well. Centrifuge at room temperature within 30 minutes of collection, then transfer plasma to a standard aliquot tube and freeze immediately: Plasma may be frozen at -20 degrees C, then transferred to dry ice for shipment within 6 hours OR immediately frozen on dry ice or at -70 degrees C or below. Separate specimens must be submitted when multiple tests are ordered. |
Minimum Specimen Requirements
| Volume | Type | Container | Collect Temperature | Transport Temperature | Special Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 mL | Note: Preferred volume is 1 mL |
Stability
| Environmental Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Frozen | -70 degrees C for 1 year; -20 degrees C for 6 hours |
| Refrigerated | Unacceptable |
| Ambient | Unacceptable |
Days Performed
First and Third Thu
Turnaround Time
19 - 21 days
Methodology
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Radioimmunoassay (RIA) |
Special Info
Critical Frozen. Thawed specimen or specimens stored at room temperature prior to shipment are unacceptable. Plasma from an EDTA (lavender) tube is the only acceptable specimen type. Send frozen plasma Priority Overnight via FedEx in a well-insulated container on dry ice. Separate specimens must be submitted when multiple tests are ordered.