Test Overview
Test Methodology

pH Meter

Test Usage

Pleural fluid pH is a key component in the diagnosis of pleural infections (including tuberculosis), rheumatoid pleural effusion, and esophageal rupture, as well as management of patients with pleural effusions. A low pleural fluid pH is associated with high metabolic activity in the pleural space, and provides supportive evidence for pleural infections. Additionally, in malignant pleural effusions, low pleural fluid pH correlates with a poor prognosis.

Reference Range *

pH > or = 7.3

Note: Analytical measurement range for the pH using the blood gas analyzer (electrode based method) is 6.7-7.8 . pH results >7.8 will be reported as ".7.8", and are within the reference range.

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily, 24 hours, 7 days a week (including holidays)
Analytic Time

1 - 4 hrs

Soft Order Code
FPH
MiChart Code
FPH
Synonyms
    Laboratory
    Clinical Core Laboratory
    Section
    Hematology
    Specimen Requirements
    Collection Instructions

    Collect pleural fluid in a clean plastic container or red top tube with no preservatives. Deliver to laboratory immediately after collection. Delays in the delivery of the specimen to the laboratory, and/or delayed analysis may significantly increase the pH.

    Normal Volume

    3.5 mL

    Minimum Volume

    1 mL

    Rejection Criteria
    Syringes will not be accepted.
    Billing
    CPT Code
    83986
    Fee Code
    JA042
    LOINC
    2750-8
    NY State Approved
    No