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HelpOrder Code OSMOF Osmolality, Feces
Ordering Guidance
This test is only clinically valid if performed on watery specimens. In the event a formed fecal specimen is submitted, the test will not be performed.
Specimen Required
Patient Preparation: No barium, laxatives, or enemas may be used for 96 hours prior to start of, or during, collection.
Supplies: Stool containers - 24, 48, 72 Hour Kit (T291)
Container/Tube: Stool container
Specimen Volume: 10 g
Collection Instructions: Collect a very liquid stool specimen.
Useful For
Measurement of osmolality for the workup of cases of chronic diarrhea
Diagnosis of factitious diarrhea (where patient adds fluid to stool to simulate diarrhea)
Method Name
Freezing Point Depression
Reporting Name
Osmolality, FSpecimen Type
FecalSpecimen Minimum Volume
5 g
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fecal | Frozen (preferred) | 14 days | |
| Refrigerated | 7 days | ||
| Ambient | 48 hours |
Reject Due To
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.Reference Values
An interpretive report will be provided
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.(Schnidler 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)
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
CPT Code Information
84999
Day(s) Performed
Monday, Thursday