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HelpTest ID FL Fluoride, Plasma
Useful For
Assessing accidental fluoride ingestion
Monitoring patients receiving sodium fluoride for bone disease or patients receiving voriconazole therapy
Method Name
Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE)
Reporting Name
Fluoride, PSpecimen Type
Plasma HeparinCollection Container/Tube: Green top (sodium heparin)
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 3 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume
1.2 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Plasma Heparin | Refrigerated (preferred) | 14 days |
| Ambient | 14 days | |
| Frozen | 14 days |
Clinical Information
Fluoride induces bone formation by stimulating osteoblasts. Because fluorides increase bone density, they are used in dental preparations and as an antiosteoporotic agent. However, prolonged high exposure to fluoride produces changes in bone morphology consistent with osteomalacia, including prolonged mineralization lag time and increased osteoid thickness. The adverse skeletal effects of fluoride are associated with plasma fluoride >4 mcmol/L. Chronic fluorosis may produce osteosclerosis, periostitis, calcification of ligaments and tendons, and crippling deformities.
Prolonged exposure to the fluoride-containing antifungal agent voriconazole can produce high plasma fluoride concentrations and bone changes (periostitis).
Reference Values
0.0-4.0 mcmol/L
Cautions
In solutions of below pH 5, H(+) complexes with the fluoride ion, thus reducing the free fluoride ion concentration and giving a falsely low reading.
At higher pH (>9), the hydroxyl ion (OH-) will interfere with electrodes, giving a falsely elevated reading.
Specimen must be sent in a plastic vial.
Day(s) Performed
Tuesday; 8 a.m.
Report Available
1 dayPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester
Test Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
82735