Osmolality (Serum)

Test information: Serum osmolality is primarily used to investigate hyponatremia. Hyponatremia may be due to sodium loss through the urine or due to increased fluid in the bloodstream. Increased fluid may be due to drinking excessive amounts of water, water retention, decreased ability of the kidneys to produce urine, or the presence of osmotically active agents such as glucose, mannitol, and glycine (a chemical used in surgical irrigation fluids).

Specimen Type(s)

• Blood;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Gold Top SST BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Light Green Top Microtainer BD;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

N/A

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

4ml

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

N/A

Maximum add on time

Less than 24 hours

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

275 - 295 mosm/Kg

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

N/A

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.