A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

Stool pH

Message
Performing Lab: Regions


Test Code
3661


Alias/See Also
Sunquest: SPH; pH Feces


CPT Codes
83986

Preferred Specimen
5 g Random Liquid Stool


Minimum Volume
1 g


Transport Container
Clean container


Transport Temperature
Refrigerated


Specimen Stability
Room Temperature: 4 hours
Refrigerated: 48 hours


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Formed or dried out stool


Methodology
pH paper

Setup Schedule
Daily


Report Available
Same Day


Reference Range
No reference range established


Clinical Significance
The normal pH of stool is neutral or weakly alkaline. Carbohydrate fermentation changes the pH to acid and protein breakdown changes the pH to the alkaline side. In cases of infantile diarrhea with carbohydrate intolerance the pH may be as low as 5.5.




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.