Lab comparison
Magnesium: Quest vs LabCorp vs BioReference, tube, code & requirements
. This page shows collection requirements for all three major reference labs in one view, so you don’t have to cross-check three portals.
Always verify against your lab’s current collection manual before drawing.
Every value on this page is verified by a nurse practitioner in active clinical practice, not scraped from an automated source.
| Requirement | Quest Diagnostics | LabCorp | BioReference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test code | 622 | 001537 | 0120-6 |
| Primary tube | Serum separator tube (SST) | Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube. Do not use oxalate, EDTA, or citrate plasma. | SST Tube |
| Specimen type | 1 mL serum | Serum (preferred) or plasma | 1 mL SST Tube |
| Patient prep | See lab specimen manual | See lab specimen manual | See lab specimen manual |
| Minimum volume | Minimum Volume 0.5 mL | Minimum Volume 0.7 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.) | Qty 1 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the Quest Diagnostics order code for Magnesium?
The Quest Diagnostics order code for Magnesium is 622.
What tube color does LabCorp use for Magnesium?
LabCorp uses a Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube. Do not use oxalate, EDTA, or citrate plasma. for Magnesium.
Does Magnesium require fasting?
Magnesium patient prep: See lab specimen manual. Always confirm with the ordering lab before the draw.
Data provenance
Source: Quest Diagnostics specimen collection manual, LabCorp directory of services, and BioReference laboratory collection guide.
Verified by: a licensed nurse practitioner in active clinical practice. Values are reviewed against each lab’s published collection requirements. Always confirm against your lab’s current manual before drawing.
Need the full lookup, not just a comparison?
No login · Zero PHI · Clinician-verified · Quest + LabCorp + BioReference.