| Test Name: |
NICOTINE AND COTININE, LC/MS/MS, SERUM/PLASMA |
| Test Code: |
2192704 |
| Alias: |
90642
LAB414
|
| CPT Code(s): |
80323
|
| Preferred Specimen: |
1.0 mL serum |
| Container: |
Plain Red (no gel) |
| Alternate Container: |
Plasma collected in: EDTA (lavender or royal blue EDTA)
4.0 mL whole blood collected in: EDTA (lavender) |
| Minimum Volume: |
0.5 mL serum or plasma
2 mL whole blood |
| Collection Instructions: |
Centrifuge specimen and transfer serum into a plastic, screw-capped vial. |
| Transport Temperature: |
Refrigerated |
| Stability: |
Serum and plasma
Room temperature: 72 hours
Refrigerated: 21 days
Frozen: 30 days
Whole blood
Room temperature: 72 hours
Refrigerated: 21 days
Frozen: unacceptable |
| Rejection Criteria: |
Gross hemolysis
Specimens collected in a SST
Frozen whole blood |
| Limitations: |
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes. |
| Schedule: |
Set up: Mon, Wed, Fri; Report available: 3-5 days |
| Method: |
Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry |
| Performing Lab: |
Quest Diagnostics, Valencia; #90642 |
| Clinical Significance: |
This assay is used for the detection of nicotine and cotinine in serum and plasma to determine the tobacco exposure status of the individual. Nicotine has a short half-life of approximately forty minutes; Its presence may indicate recent tobacco exposure. Cotinine, the major nicotine metabolite, has a half-life of 24 hours and is detectable for several days after cessation of tobacco exposure. |
| Use: |
Updated: 02/27/2026 |
| Reference Ranges: |
Nicotine, Serum/Plasma
Smoker 2-10 ng/mL
Nonsmoker ≤4 ng/mL
Cotinine, Serum/Plasma
Smoker 16-145 ng/mL
Nonsmoker ≤8 ng/mL |
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The CPT codes included in this publication are in accordance with Current Procedural Terminology, a publication of the American Medical Association. CPT codes are provided here for the convenience of our clients; however, correct coding often varies from one carrier to another, and HealthLab may bill specific carriers using codes other than those shown. Clients who bill for services should verify the code(s) with the applicable payor to confirm that their use is appropriate in each case.
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| Test Type: |
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