MASDIAG Vitamin D Level Test Kit

Vitamin D is a group of compounds with versatile effects that have far-reaching effects on the human body.

Based on their sources, vitamin D is divided into D2 (plant sources and yeast) and D3 (animal sources, cutaneous biosynthesis, and supplementation). The metabolism of these compounds in the body is based on a two-step hydroxylation process that leads to the formation of active metabolites. The most quantitatively dominant vitamin D metabolites include:

• Calcidiol, i.e. 25 (OH) D as the sum of the concentrations of 25 (OH) D3 and 25 (OH) D2 - the basic parameter that determines the body's supply of vitamin D
• Catabolite 24,25 (OH) 2D - a metabolite that determines the activity of an enzyme involved in the excretion of vitamin D from the bloodstream.

Statistics show that the majority of the Polish population is deficient in vitamin D. Therefore, it is very important to choose the right dose of supplementation and regularly monitor its effects on changes in vitamin D concentration.

What distinguishes the study:

It is the only test available on the Polish market that determines the concentration of the metabolites 25(OH)D3 and 25(OH)D2, as well as the catabolite 24,25(OH)2D3, and provides interpretations. Its major advantage is the convenience and ease of sample collection. Capillary blood is collected independently from the fingertip without visiting the collection site, and the electronically signed result is sent via email.

The test is performed using LC-MS/MS (high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) technology. It measures the molecular weight and structure of the tested substances, making it 100% specific and resistant to interference and cross-reactions that can occur with other commercially available methods. The laboratory participates in the International Certification Program for Vitamin D Metabolites (DEQAS).

What is included in the kit:

The kit contains: collection instructions, 2 HTL Strefa lancets (one as a spare), 1 Munktell TFN paper, 2 sterile compresses, 1 disposable swab for disinfection, plaster with dressing, 3 barcodes for labels and questionnaires, 1 zip bag with desiccant and 1 return envelope

How to perform the test:

1. Mark the blotting paper and the declaration with the same barcode (a copy of the code is left for the patient). The sample collection area is surrounded by a black circle; it must not touch any surface during blood collection.
   2. Warm the puncture site (fingertip) with warm water for 1-2 minutes ( ATTENTION ! Do not use anesthetic creams that could interfere with your skin test results!)
   3. Open dry, sterile gauze swabs. Disinfect the skin at the puncture site with a moistened gauze swab. Wait until the disinfectant has evaporated.
   4. Unscrew the protective cap of the lancing device.
   5. Press the side of the lancing device firmly against the tip of your middle or ring finger and press the trigger.

6. Wipe away the first drop of blood that forms with a dry swab (it contains tissue fluids that can alter the measurement result).

7. Turn the pierced part of the finger with the puncture site facing down. When the blood collects very slowly, stand up and hold the hand with the pierced finger below the level of the heart.

8. When collecting, the marked area on the blotting paper should not touch the surface on which the blotting paper is located; it is best to hold it in your hand above the table top.
9. Wait until a large drop of blood has formed and wait for it to fall onto the collection area, or if the drop does not want to fall, then carefully place the blotting paper over the formed drop of blood.
10. Collect at least three well-filtered drops of blood on the other side of the blotting paper. Place each drop in a separate field.
11. After collecting, gently press the puncture site with a second, dry gauze swab or cover it with a plaster and bandage.
12. Dry the blot paper for 2-3 hours at room temperature, in a horizontal position, away from direct sunlight. Do not heat to accelerate drying.

Detailed instructions for blood collection are also included in the kit.

Where samples are returned:

The kit contains a self-addressed envelope, into which the coded tissue paper should be tightly wrapped and placed in a zip-lock bag containing a desiccant, as well as a legibly completed consent form for the collection of the material marked with the same code number. The prepared package should be sent to the laboratory by mail or courier to minimize transport time.