Electrolyte and Osmolality Profile, Fecal

Also known as: FEC PRO

Clinical Use

Use

The Electrolyte and Osmolality Profile, Fecal test is used to evaluate the electrolyte concentrations and osmolality in fecal matter. It helps diagnose and differentiate between various forms of diarrhea, including secretory and osmotic diarrhea. This test analyzes sodium, potassium, magnesium, and osmolality levels to assess potential conditions like sodium-containing laxative use or fecal contamination with urine or water.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

Interpretative limitations exist; reference intervals are not well established for fecal sodium and potassium. Stool osmolality is affected by contamination factors like urine or external water. High sodium or significantly low or high osmolality can indicate non-gastrointestinal disturbances. The test does not distinguish the source of contamination; therefore, clinical correlation and additional testing may be needed in inconclusive results.

Test Details

New York Approved

Methodology

Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)

Biomarkers

5 components

Sodium, Fecal • Clinical ChemistryPotassium, Fecal • Clinical ChemistryMagnesium, Fecal • Clinical ChemistryOsmolality, Fecal • Clinical Chemistry+1 more

LOINC Codes

Result Codes

30078-0 - Specimen wt Stl Qn
15207-4 - Sodium Stl-sCnc
15202-5 - Potassium Stl-sCnc
29911-5 - Magnesium Stl-mCnc
29912-3 - Magnesium Stl-mRate
13363-7 - Specimen collect Time Stl
2693-0 - Osmolality Stl
73571-2 - Osmol gap Stl

Result Turnaround Time

1-2 days

Specimen

Stool

Volume

Not provided

Minimum Volume

5 g

Container

Original collection kit for 24-hour collection or unpreserved stool transport vial for random collection

Collection Instructions

24-hour Collection: Freeze partially filled containers during collection. Use ARUP Supply #28077 kit. Random Collection: Transfer 5 g stool to vial (ARUP Supply #40910). Indicate time and volume. Do not liquefy specimen with additives.