Neurokinin A (Substance K)
Label Mnemonic: NEUROA
Epic code: LAB3698
Downtime form: A-1a Doctor/Provider Orders - Pathology Core and Specialty Care Nursery
Commercial Mailout Laboratory
6240-8 RCP
356-8593
Specimen(s):
Plasma
Specimen Instructions:
Patient should not be on any medications that affect hypertension, gastrointestinal functions, or pain relievers, if possible, for at least 48 hours prior to collection of specimen.

For tumor/tissue and various fluids (i.e. CSF, peritoneal, synovial, etc.) contact Commerical Mailouts (356-8593) for requirements and special handling.
Collection Medium:
Z tube
Minimum:
1 mL plasma from a Special Z preservative collection tube obtained from reference laboratory.
Delivery Instructions:
Keep on ice and deliver to laboratory immediately.
Testing Schedule:
Varies
Turn Around Time:
2 weeks upon receipt at reference laboratory
Reference Range:
Up to 40 pg/ml
Comments:
Contact Commercial Mailouts at 356-8593, Specimen Control at 356-3527 or the Clinical Cancer Center at 356-4200 to obtain collection tubes for this testing. No other specimen collection container is acceptable by the reference laboratory.

Patients should be fasting for 10-12 hours prior to specimen collection. Antacid medications or medications that affect intestinal motility should be discontinued, if possible, for at least 48 hours prior to collection.

Neurokinin A is a ten amino acid putative transmitter synthesized in the neurons it is present in. Neurokinin A is a member of the family called Tachykinins which also include Neurokinin B, Substance P, Physalaemin, and Eledoisin. Neurokinin A shares 6 of 10 peptide homologies with Neurokinin B even though they are produced by different genes. Neurokinin A is also very similar in structure to Substance P and produces some of the same biological actions as Substance P. Neurokinin A is a potent bronchoconstrictor. In the gut, Neurokinin A is produced by the intrinsic enteric nervous system.
Methodology:
Direct Radioimmunoassay
CPT Code:
83519
 
See Additional Information:
Specimens Requiring Immediate Delivery