Lithium Test
The lithium test measures the concentration of lithium in a blood sample. Lithium is a medication used in the care of manic-depressive disorders, and Quest describes this test as a way to help track levels of the medication in the blood.
About this test
Lithium is a medication used in the care of manic-depressive disorders and the manic phase of affective disorders. Quest describes lithium as having a relatively small therapeutic window, which is why monitoring blood levels is useful for helping optimize dosing.
The test can be run using several laboratory methods, including immunoassay, inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry, spectrometry or spectrophotometry, and Quest notes that the sample is generally collected just before the next dose so the result reflects a consistent point in the dosing cycle.
Test details
| Quest code | 613 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Immunoassay • Inductively Coupled Plasma/Mass Spectrometry • Spectrometry • Spectrophotometry |
| Sample type | 2 mL serum |
| Patient preparation | Collect just before your next dose. |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
Reference range
0.6-1.2 mmol/L
Reference ranges are general guidance. The range printed on your own laboratory report is the one that applies to your result.
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports one value: the concentration of lithium in a serum sample, used to track levels of the medication in the blood over the course of treatment.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the lithium test measure?
It measures the concentration of lithium in a blood serum sample, used to track levels of the medication.
How is the lithium sample collected?
The test uses a serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for a lithium test?
Yes. Quest lists a preparation instruction for this test tied to the timing of the blood draw relative to a dose, which appears with the test details; people follow the instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Why is lithium monitored with blood tests?
Quest describes lithium as having a relatively small therapeutic window, so monitoring blood levels is useful for helping optimize dosing and avoid levels that are too high or too low.
How much is a Lithium test?
$75, paid once at checkout. The price includes the physician's order this test requires and sample collection at a Quest patient service center.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Collect just before your next dose. This is the preparation Quest publishes for this test; if your clinician gives you different instructions, follow theirs.