Methodology
Spectrophotometry (SP)
Specimen Type
Body Fluid
Performing Lab
UCSD CALM Chemistry
Epic ID
LAB90038
Lab Test Days
Daily
Standard TAT
24 Hours from receipt of sample
Collection Information
Specimen Required
2-6 mL Body Fluid (Pleural (Thoracentesis), Pericardial, Peritoneal (paracentesis), Ascites (Abdominal drain) and Synovial (joint/knee))
Container Type
Sterile Container
Collection Instructions
Acceptable sources only: Pleural (Thoracentesis), Pericardial, Peritoneal (paracentesis), Ascites (Abdominal drain) and Synovial (joint/knee).
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Room Temp-OK/Refrigerated-OK/Frozen-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp: 7 Days; Refrigerated: 7 Days; Frozen: 3 Months
Test Volume Required
6 mL Body Fluid
Minimum Test Volume
2 mL Body Fluid
Processing Instructions
Aliquot and centrifuge body fluid. Separate clear portion of body fluid into a screw-capped vial. Complete a UCSD Chemistry requisition and submit with specimen refrigerated. Specify source in comments, on specimen and on requisition. If requested STAT or urgent, call a RUSH TForce pickup.
Comments
Body fluid specimens submitted for chemistry testing must be clear, non-turbid, and free of visible particulate matter, with a viscosity comparable to serum. Specimens that are turbid, purulent, highly viscous, or otherwise unsuitable in appearance—particularly those received from other hospitals—must not be processed. For Peritoneal Fluid, See Quest TC 17422.
Revised
6/15/26
Initials
SA