Test Name
VITAMIN C (ASCORBIC ACID)
Aliases
ASCORBATE
Abbreviations
VIT C
Test Classification
INDIVIDUAL
Department
SPECIAL CHEMISTRY
Sub Department
VITAMINS AND NUTRITION
TAT Category
ELAPSED (CONTINUOUS) TIME
Estimated TAT
8
TAT Units
DAYS
Test Requirements
PATIENT PREPARATION: 12 hour fast (for infants collect immediately before next feed); avoid vitamin C supplements and vitamin C rich foods for at least 24 hours prior to testing. Testing of non-fasting specimens or the use of vitamin supplementation can result in elevated plasma vitamin C concentrations.
SAMPLE TYPE: 1mL serum or heparin (green top) plasma.
SAMPLE HANDLING: Unstable photosensitive analyte. Separate ASAP, protect from light by covering in aluminium foil and freeze. Transport frozen and light protected. Samples which are at room temperature or are not protected from light will be rejected.
Clinical Utility
Assessment of vitamin C status, diagnosis of deficiency (scurvy), and monitoring of nutritional intake. Low levels confirm deficiency. High levels usually reflect recent supplementation rather than toxicity.
Last Review
26th Feb 2026