Methodology
Enzymatic
Synonyms
Lactate
Specimen Type
Body Fluid
Performing Lab
UCSD CALM Chemistry
Epic ID
LAB90043
Lab Test Days
Daily
Standard TAT
24 Hours from receipt of sample
Collection Information
Specimen Required
Body Fluid (Pleural (Thoracentesis), Pericardial, Peritoneal (paracentesis), Ascites (Abdominal drain) and Synovial (joint/knee))
Container Type
Sterile Container
Collection Instructions
Place specimen immediately on ice after collection and deliver to lab. Acceptable sources only: Pleural (Thoracentesis), Pericardial, Peritoneal (paracentesis), Ascites (Abdominal drain) and Synovial (joint/knee).
Processing Information - Lab Use Only
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated-OK/Frozen-OK
Specimen Stability
Room Temp: Unacceptable; Refrigerated: 24 Hours; Frozen: 1 Month (preferred)
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 frozen. 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.
Revised
6/15/26
Initials
SA