Catalog ID Prealb Prealbumin
CPOE Test Name
Prealbumin
Synonyms
Prealb; Thyroxine Binding Prealbumin; TBPA
Specimen Type
Plasma
Specimen Requirements
5 mL light green top (Lithium Heparin) tube; 2 mL blood
Storage and Transport
Specimens may be stored at 2 to 8° C for up to 72 hours prior to testing. Specimens in which testing will be delayed for longer than 72 hours should be frozen at -15° C or colder; avoid multiple freeze thaw cycles
Reference Values
10.0 – 40.0 mg/dL
Interpretation
Prealbumin and Retinol Binding Protein are sensitive indicators of changes in nutritional status, which may be due to their short half-lives and small pool size. The concentration of prealbumin-retinol binding protein complex is decreased during protein-calorie malnutrition and liver disorders, and increased during renal diseases.
Causes for Rejection
Improper labeling; severe lipema; wrong tube
Turn Around Time
12 hours from time of testing
CPT / HCPCS Code
84134
Performing Lab
Core Laboratory BI 2023 721-2120
Test Consists
The quantitative determination of prealbumin.