Proinsulin (Blood)

Testing Laboratory

Endocrinology, Prince of Wales Hospital, NSW, Australia

Department

Chemical Pathology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

MSN

Test Code (Numeric Code)

9932

Synonyms

Pro-insulin

This test may be vetted by the laboratory. Please include relevant clinical information on the request form to ensure appropriate tests are approved. See the 'Clinical Information' section on the testing laboratory's test guide for more information on the indications for testing.

Specimen Type

• Serum

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• SST II (Gold Cap)

Acceptable

• Plain (Red Top)

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

2

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

2

Diagnostic Use and Interpretation

Serum proinsulin may be required for the diagnosis of insulinoma in selected cases.
In most cases the diagnosis will be clear from the serum insulin level taken at the time of hypoglycemia.
The sample needs to be sent frozen to Australia.

The ADHB protocol for investigation of hypoglycemia is as follows:

If a request for a proinsulin level is received:

1. An aliquot of serum will be automatically stored frozen, and logged in Delphic/Eclair as such..
2. A comment will be sent via Eclair: " If a proinsulin assay is required, contact the on-call Chemical pathologist (via Lablink ext 22000) who will authorise the sendaway to Australia. This sample will be stored frozen for 3 weeks after which it will be discarded."
3. If the endocrinologist, having seen the insulin, glucose and other results, still requires the proinsulin then he/she should discuss the case with the on-call Chemical pathologist who will authorise the sendaway if appropriate.

Laboratory Notes

Spin and separate immediately and store 2 aliquots of serum in freezer 37 in the International Sendaways box.
Store and transport at -20 degrees Celsius
(1 aliquot for pro-insulin, the other for insulin antibodies, if required)

Endocrinology/SEALS
Level 4, Campus Centre
Prince of Wales Hospital
Barker St.
Randwick
NSW 2031
Australia

Anthony Diamond (Lab Manager) Anthony.diamond@sesiahs.health.gov.au
Tel: (612) 9382 9066
Fax: (612) 9382 9099
Specimen Reception : Tel 612 9382 9092 Fax 612 9382 9177
Call centre SEALS (results) Tel 1 800 073 257 or 612 9382 4811; Fax 612 9540 7009

Contact Information