The Lithium (Li) Test measures lithium levels in blood. The Lithium (Li+) is used an antipsychotic element. These drugs are also used to treat bipolar illness and depression.
The Lithium (Li) Test measures lithium levels in blood. The Lithium (Li+) is used an antipsychotic element. These drugs are also used to treat bipolar illness and depression.
This test is used to determine the following: the correct therapy dose, including lithium. It also aids in assessing the lithium levels in the blood, indicating potential lithium toxicity. Seizures, sleepiness, and erratic heartbeat indicate lithium poisoning.
Lithium is found in fruits, vegetables, cereals (oats), and shellfish. Maintaining hydration, caffeine and salt intake, and avoiding alcohol can assist in preserving lithium levels.
Clinical Definition of Lithium Level
The Lithium test analysis is done to assess the quantities of lithium found in the blood in order to understand if the drug concentrations are in the therapeutic range or if they would any need further moderation and alterations.
Why is the Serum Lithium Test done?
- To find the right amount of lithium for the treatment.
- To regularly measure blood concentration to and help maintain an appropriate therapeutic concentration of Lithium
- Check for lithium toxicity when symptoms emerge.
Indications of Serum Lithium Test
- Depression
- Agitation
- Poor judgment
- Risky behavior
- Trouble sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of suicide
Guidelines to follow before, during and after the test
Here are some guidelines an individual can refer to once they have decided to undergo Serum Lithium Test
The required documents needed for this test includes your valid government ID and an appropriate Doctor’s prescription.
Before the Test
- Nothing Specific to prepare for the Serum Lithium Test in advance.
- No fasting is required before the test.
During the Test
Method: When blood is drawn, it is called “venipuncture”
- At the test center, you would be requested to sit comfortably on the chair or even lie down on the cot.
- In case of long sleeve clothing, roll up sleeve of one end or remove the arm from the sleeve of the clothing.
- A healthcare provider, or a technician/nurse, would tie band made of rubber tightly on your upper arm.
- Once an appropriate vein is found, a needle is inserted below the skin to take the sample.
A short sharp prick may be felt when needle puncture is made under the skin, to collect the blood sample.
After the Test
- After the blood is withdrawn, the respective technician/ healthcare professional would withdraw the needle.
- Place pressure on puncture wound to stop the bleeding. A small bandage may also be put on the wound.
- You would be able to return on your usual routine immediately.
Result Interpretation:
|
Reference Range |
Interpretation |
|
Above 1.5 |
Potentially Toxic |
|
Above 2.0 |
Severely Toxic |
|
0.6 to 1.2 |
Therapeutic Range |
Serum Lithium Test Cost in Delhi:
Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre is a one-stop solution for getting all kinds of tests done, as all services are available under one roof.
The aim of GDIC is to provide world’s finest technology at the lowest price.
The rates of scans are reasonably priced. Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre also offers FLAT 50% OFF on many tests.
Patients can rely upon test reports as reports are 100% accurate Test/Digital Reports.
Irrespective of cost, get the done at the certified diagnostic centre where tests are performed without quality compromise with 100% accuracy.
The Lithium-Serum Test price varies by region and facility. So constantly get tested at trustworthy diagnostic centers like Ganesh Diagnostic. It is staffed by trained and experienced professionals to assure patient and visitor safety.
Serum Lithium Test: Rs. 500 Rs. 400
FAQs on Serum Lithium Test
What is a lithium blood test called?
The lithium blood test is called as serum lithium levels and lithium levels.
How is the Lithium Test Blood Sample Taken?
To take the following blood sample, the tourniquet (elastic) band would be placed tightly on upper arm of the patient. The patient would be asked to make a fist. The skin would be cleaned before the needle is inserted in the vein, this is done to prevent any bacteria to enter the site. The needle is then inserted into the vein in the patient's arm, and subsequently, the blood sample is collected.
What is the therapeutic range of Lithium?
The therapeutic range is considered to be the following:
Acute Treatment: 1.0 to 1.5 mEq/L
Chronic Treatment: 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L
Monitoring must be done every 1 to 2 weeks until the desired therapeutic levels are reached. Afterwards, the Serum Lithium is checked every 2 to 3 months for the next six months.
What is Lithium Toxicity?
When there is a considerable overdose of lithium, it is termed as the Lithium Toxicity.
What are the symptoms of Lithium Toxicity?
The common symptoms of Lithium Toxicity heavily depend upon the intensity. For example, in mild to moderate lithium toxicity, symptoms are the following:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Tremors
- Uncontrollable body movements
- Muscle weakness
- Drowsiness
In severe lithium toxicity, the following symptoms may be seen:
- Heightened reflexes
- Seizures
- Agitation
- Slurred speech
- Kidney failure
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hyperthermia
- Uncontrollable eye movements
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion , delirium
- In some cases, might lead to death
What are the side effects of low doses of lithium?
The adverse effects of the low dosage of the lithium include the following symptoms:
- Frequent urination
- Thirst
- Hand tremors
- Dry mouth
- Sudden Weight loss or gain
- Indigestion/gas/ constipation experienced by the patient,
- Restlessness
- Rash
- Muscle weakness
How many types of lithium toxicity are there?
There are chiefly 3 types of lithium toxicity, based on the causes. These include the following:
- Acute toxicity
- Chronic toxicity
- Acute-on-chronic toxicity
Which food or drinks can affect the concentrations of lithium in the body?
It has been seen that the food or the drinks that affect the concentration of the lithium in the body include the following:
- Salt
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
When should lithium levels be checked?
Many a times, the healthcare professional would advise tests like serum creatinine and sodium along with lithium test. The levels of lithium must be checked if the individual experiences the following symptoms like the following:
- Agitation
- Slurred speech
- Poor judgment and severe mood swings
What happens if the lithium level is too low?
Low levels of lithium will usually result in feeling depressed (depression), the person experiences mood disorders, the impulse control disorders, or violent behaviors, or learning problems, fertility problems.
Low lithium levels are also associated with certain medications or dehydration, sometimes even with kidney diseases.
Where to get the Serum Lithium Test done?
Visit the Nearest Ganesh diagnostic and Imaging Centre
At Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre, we are known for providing excellent service and care to its patients for decades. Lakhs of satisfied patients over the years!
It is an established and renowned diagnostic centre since 2001.
Their excellence is backed by NABH and NABL Accreditations.
NABH accreditation is proof of highest standard of care and service provided to the patients. NABL accreditation reflects the competency of laboratories and equipment based on some national and international standards.
Test report is available digitally too.
Note from Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Center
- Early checkups are always better than delayed ones. Safety, precaution & care are depicted in the several health checkups at our center.
- Here, at Ganesh Diagnostic and Imagining Center, we present simple & comprehensive health packages for any kind of testing to ensure the early prescribed treatment to safeguard your health.
- So, visit us at the earliest to ensure good health and to maintain an active immune system.
