Phenolphthalein, Feces

Test Code

17085Z

CPT Codes
84311

Preferred Specimen

10 g stool collected in a sterile leak-proof container

Minimum Volume

5 g

Transport Temperature

Frozen

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: Unacceptable
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 7 days

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

Received room temperature

Methodology
Colorimetric (C)

FDA Status
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by FDA. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.

Setup Schedule

Set up: Sun-Fri; Report Available: 2-4 days

Clinical Significance

Phenolphthalein is a cathartic agent that acts mostly on the colon. Since it takes at least 6 hours to work, it is often taken at bedtime to produce a laxative effect the following morning. 85% of what is ingested is excreted in the feces; the remainder is absorbed and eliminated mostly in the urine. The test is used to detect laxative abuse.

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.