Beta Carotene

Beta Carotene

Beta-carotene is a lipid soluble vitamin, or carotenoid. It is also known as pro-vitamin A. It is a very large molecule that is converted to vitamin A in a ratio of 1:2 beta carotene to vitamin A when it metabolized in the liver. The body will convert beta carotene to vitamin A based on its needs. This conversion needs a proper functioning thyroid and the patient cannot be a diabetic. It is not unusual to find an elevated beta carotene and low vitamin A in these patients. Beta carotene is a very strong antioxidant especially in lipid membranes. It is also important in proper eye health. There is no toxic level for beta carotene. If taken in an excessive amount, the skin, especially on the hands, may turn yellow.

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Process time: 5 to 7 business days

Process method: The methodology is by HPLC

CPT code: 82380

Special instructions: None

Rejection causes: Gross Hemolysis

Patient prep: None

Specimen volume: 1 mL serum; light protected

Minimum volume: 0.2 mL

Collection container: SST or red-stopper tube

Transport container: Amber plastic transport tube

Transport instructions: Refrigerate or freeze

Collection instructions: Click here for PDF

Normal values: 5 to 65 ug/dL.

Reference one: Levy, J., et al. Lycopene is a more potent inhibitor of human cancer cell proliferation than either a-carotene or b-carotene. Nutr Canc, 1995; 24(3);257-266.

Reference two: Kaplan, L.A., Lau, J.M., Stein. Carotenoid composition, concentrations, and relationships in various human organs. Clin Physiol Biochem, 1990; 8: 1-10.