Test Code LAB177 Albumin, Body Fluid (FALB)
Additional Codes
CPT Code: 84042
Methodology
This test is also included in Peritoneal Fluid Analysis (PERTFA)
Performing Laboratory
TidalHealth Peninsula Regional - Chemistry
Specimen Requirements
Sterile specimen must be analyzed within 2 hours of collection.
Acceptable Specimens: Ascites and peritoneal fluid.
Submit 2 mL of body fluid in a grey-top (potassium oxalate/sodium fluoride) tube. Body fluid specimens in sodium heparin or plain red tubes are acceptable for FALB determinations. Do not use tubes containing EDTA for albumin testing.
Note: Indicate specimen source: ascites or peritoneal.
Reference Values
A serum-effusion albumin gradient (serum albumin minus serous body fluid albumin) of > 1.1 g/dL suggests the fluid is a transudate.