Ammonia

Alternative Names/Synonyms	NH3
Laboratory	Core Laboratory & Transfusion Medicine
Sub-section	Biochemistry
Specimen Type	Blood
Lab Speciality	Lab
Test Code	AMON

Clinical Significance (If applicable)

Evaluating inborn errors of metabolism such as urea cycle disorders in neonates.

Assisting in diagnosis of liver failure or hepatic encephalopathy from advanced liver disease in adults.

Specimen Requirements (Sample Type)

Plasma

Specimen Requirements (Volume (mL))

0.5 mL

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

Plasma (Lavender Tube only)
Collection Containers – Tube Types

Collection Requirements

Collect full tube and send on ice.
Collection Instructions

Storage / Shipment Details

Send on ice.

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: 30 min

Fridge: 2 hours @ 2-8°C

Freezer: 3 days @ -20°C

Cause for Rejection

Sample not sent on ice.
Specimen Acceptability and Transport Guidance

Instrument, Methodology

Roche cobas c 502, enzymatic

Test Availability

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

STAT Turnaround Time

1 hour

Routine Turnaround Time

3 hours

Reference Ranges

< 49 µmol/L

In case of discrepancies, always interpret results using reference ranges as stated on laboratory reports and/or electronic patient chart.

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4688

Patient Preparation

Patient should be fasting and avoid smoking prior to collection.