Laboratory Services

pH, Body Fluid

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Updated Test Information:

Test Description
pH, Body Fluid
Synonym(s)

pH, BF pH, body fluid pH, body fluid

Test ID
BFPH
General Information

Determining the pH value (hydrogen ion concentration) of a body fluid may help characterize the nature of the fluid. Abnormally low pleural fluid pH measurements can help identify exudates caused by pneumonia/lung abscess

Container Type

Plain red top or other sterile, preservative free container. Must be tightly capped.

Specimen Type

Body Fluid

Specimen Requirements

Limit exposure to air and avoid cell contamination if possible. If sample contains cells, promptly separate fluid from the cells and place in airtight container.

Alternate Specimen Type

Specimens received in preserve tubes are not preferred, but accepted.

Specimen Collection / Processing Instructions

Indicate the body fluid type, source location, and data/time of collection. Store sample refrigerated.

Minimum Sample Volume

0.5mL

Stability

2 days at 15‑25 °C

Unacceptable Specimen Conditions

Specimens received > 2 days after collection. Specimens stored at temperatures other than refrigerated.

Department (code)

Hematology

Methodology

pH indicator strip or pH paper

Estimated TAT

0-2 days

Testing Schedule

Monday - Saturday

Test Includes

Body Fluid pH

CPT Code(s)

83986

Reference Range

Reference ranges vary depending on the type of body fluid being tested as well as the reason why the pH testing is being performed.


Serous fluid: 6.8-7.6
Synovial fluid: parallels serum
Gastric fluid: <5.0

STAT Orderable (Y/N)

Y

Performing Lab

Incyte

LOINC Code(s)

2748-2