Lithium (Li)

About Test

The Lithium (Li) assay measures the concentration of lithium, a medication used primarily to treat mood disorders such as bipolar disorder and depression, in the bloodstream. Lithium acts by altering the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to stabilize mood and reduce the frequency and severity of mood swings. This test is essential in monitoring lithium levels to ensure therapeutic efficacy and prevent toxicity. Maintaining lithium levels within a narrow therapeutic range is crucial, as levels that are too low may be ineffective, while levels that are too high can lead to adverse effects and toxicity. Physicians often order lithium testing regularly, especially during the initial phase of treatment and following dosage adjustments, to optimize therapeutic outcomes and minimize the risk of side effects. Monitoring lithium levels helps healthcare providers tailor treatment regimens to individual patient needs, ensuring safe and effective management of mood disorders.

Sample Requirements

Purple EDTA Tube

Stability

Serum: 7 days 2-8°C

Turnaround Time

4 hours

Purple EDTA Tube

Assay Interferences

Interferences (Up to 5%)

Calcium: Above 15 mg/dL

Potassium: Above 7 mmol/L

Sodium: Above 180 mmol/L

Iron: Above 800 ug/dL

Zinc: Above 500 ug/dL

Magnesium: Above 4 mg/dL

Copper: Above 600 ug/dL

Bilirubin (conj): Above 15 mg/dL

Lipemia: Above 600 mg/dL

Haemolysis: Above 2 g/L

Reference Range (mmol/L):

0.40 - 1.00 Therapeutic / 1.00 - 2.00 Moderately Toxic / >2.00 Severely Toxic

Known factors:

Increased Lithium

  • Problem: Incorrect container or anticoagulant
    Caused by: Lithium Heparin Tube

Critical Value:

Above 1.5 mmol/L