Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Detection of cotinine in the urine indicates smoking or exposure to smoking.
Specimen container paediatric:
Plain universal container
Specimen container adult:
Plain universal container
Minimum volume paediatric:
1 mL (random urine sample)
Minimum volume adult:
2 mL (random urine sample)
Sample stability:
Samples are stable at 4°C for 2 to 5 days.
Samples can be stored at -15°C for up to 12 months.
Transport requirements:
Ambient temperature.
Interpretation:
Knowledge of time elapsed between last dose and specimen collection is important for interpretation of test results.
Reference ranges:
Adult
<50µg/L : Consistent with no active smoking
50 – 500µg/L : Consistent with light smoking or moderate passive smoking
>500µg/L : Consistent with active smoking