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Specimen Requirements
Specimen requirements will vary depending on the type of specimen being collected and the metabolites being analyzed. It is suggested that you contact the laboratory at 713-798-5484 prior to collecting samples to discuss the volume of sample for the testing and the handling requirements. Some suggestions for commonly encountered questions are listed below.
Plasma: Use green top, sodium heparin, tube. Although not required for testing, it is recommended that the sample be taken after a four hour fast. After separation of the plasma, maintain refrigerated and transport on cold packs to the laboratory between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm on the day of collection. Samples can be stored in the freezer overnight for transport the following day. Samples sent to the laboratory via overnight carrier should be sent frozen (freezer packs or dry ice) in an insulated container.
Serum: Although not required for testing, it is recommended that the sample be taken after a four hour fast. After separation of the serum, maintain refrigerated and transport on cold packs to the laboratory between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm on the day of collection. Samples can be stored in the freezer overnight for transport the following day. Samples sent to the laboratory via overnight carrier should be sent frozen (freezer packs or dry ice) in an insulated container.
Urine: Although not required for testing, it is recommended that the sample be taken from the first morning void to ensure that the specimen is sufficiently concentrated. After collection of the urine, maintain refrigerated and transport on cold packs to the laboratory between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm on the day of collection. Samples can be stored in the freezer overnight for transport the following day. Samples sent to the laboratory via overnight carrier should be sent frozen (freezer packs or dry ice) in an insulated container.
Shipping Instructions
Please call the laboratory at 713-798-5484 and print and fill out
the Analyte
Center Submission Form prior to sending or dropping off
sample. Please send the Analyte
Center Submission Form with your sample. Samples
from within Baylor College of Medicine may be taken to the
freezer in room T540. Please notify the laboratory when samples
are dropped off. For those outside of Baylor College of Medicine
that wish to send samples, please ship
to the address below:
William E. O’Brien, Ph.D.
Baylor College of Medicine
Medical Genetics Laboratories
2450 Holcombe Blvd.
Grand Blvd. - Receiving Dock
Houston, Texas 77021-2024