Albumin, Pericardial Fluid

Test Code
17411


CPT Codes
82042

Preferred Specimen
1 mL pericardial fluid submitted in a plastic sterile leak-proof container


Minimum Volume
0.5 mL


Transport Temperature
Frozen


Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Gross hemolysis


Methodology
Nephelometry

Setup Schedule
Set up: Mon-Sat; Report available: 1-2 days


Reference Range
A gradient value of >1.2 g/dL is seen in transudates.
A gradient value of ≤1.2 g/dL is seen in exudates.


Clinical Significance
The serous cavities surrounding the abdomen, heart and lungs will accumulate fluids, called effusions, when their production or resorption is not in balance. The serum-effusion albumin gradient is used to classify whether an effusion is a transudate or an exudate.




The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.