Department of Laboratory Medicine
University of Washington
 
Clinical assay interference and limitations


Homocysteine [HCY]

Methodology: Abbott Axsym Homocysteine Immunoassay

Specimens from patients who have received preparations of mouse monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis or therapy may contain human anti-mouse antibody (HAMA). HAMA present in serum or plasma specimens, may interfere in immunoassays which utilize mouse monoclonal antibodies. These specimens should not be assayed with the AxSYM homocysteine assay.

S-adenosyl-methionine is an antidepressant whose molecular form is similar to S-adenosyl-homocysteine. Therapeutic levels of this drug may interfere with the AxSYM Homocysteine assay.

The following drugs may elevate levels of homocysteine: methotrexate, carbamazepine, phenytoin, nitrous oxide, and 6-azauridine triacetate.

Reference range data for children and adolescents are not confirmed. The concentrations were lowest in younger children and increased with age. The suggested reference ranges (Am J Clin Nutr 1999; May; 69: 968 ­ 972) are:



 5 ­ 9 y

 5.14 ­ 7.50

 umol/L

 10 ­ 14 y

 5.69 ­ 8.84

 umol/L

 15 ­ 19 y

 6.36 ­ 12.29

 umol/L







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Created: May 31, 2002
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