Order Code LAB1123 Osmolality, Serum
Additional Codes
EPIC Test Code: LAB1123
Mayo Test Code UOSMS
Reporting Name
Osmolality, SUseful For
Evaluating acutely ill or comatose patients
Performing Laboratory

Specimen Type
SerumSpecimen Required
Collection Container/Tube:
Preferred: Red top
Acceptable: Serum gel
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 2 mL
Collection Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Serum | Refrigerated (preferred) | 7 days |
Frozen | 7 days | |
Ambient | 24 hours |
Reference Values
275-295 mOsm/kg
CPT Code Information
83930
Method Description
The depression of the freezing point of serum or other fluid is used to measure osmolality in most osmometers. The extent of lowering below 0° C (the freezing point of water) is a function of the concentration of substances dissolved in the serum. By definition, 1 milliosmole per kilogram lowers the freezing point 0.001858° C.(Schindler EI, Brown SM, Scott MG: Electrolytes and blood gases. In: Rifai N, Horvath AR, Wittwer CT, eds: Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics. 6th ed. Elsevier; 2018:610-612)
Reject Due To
Gross hemolysis | OK |
Gross lipemia | OK |
Method Name
Freezing Point Depression
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Renal Diagnostics Test Request (T830) with the specimen.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday