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Test Code UREDF Reducing Substance, Feces

Reporting Name

Reducing Substance, F

Useful For

Assisting in the differentiation between osmotic and nonosmotic diarrhea

 

Screening test for:

-Diarrhea from disaccharidase deficiencies, (eg, lactase deficiency)

-Monosaccharide malabsorption

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

Specimen Type

Fecal


Specimen Required


Supplies: Stool container, Small (Random), 4 oz Random (T288)

Container/Tube: Fecal container

Specimen Volume: 3 g

Collection Instructions:

1. Collect a loose, unpreserved, random fecal specimen.

2. Freeze immediately.

Additional Information: If additional tests are ordered, aliquot and separate sample prior to freezing to allow 1 container per test.


Specimen Minimum Volume

2 g

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time Special Container
Fecal Frozen 7 days

Reference Values

Negative or trace

Test Classification

This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

CPT Code Information

84376

Clinical Information

Fecal reducing substances (carbohydrates) aids in determining the underlying cause of diarrhea. Elevations in fecal reducing substances help distinguish between osmotic diarrhea caused by abnormal excretion of various sugars as opposed to diarrhea caused by viruses and parasites. Increased reducing substances in stool are consistent with, but not diagnostic of, primary or secondary disaccharidase deficiency (primarily lactase deficiency) or intestinal monosaccharide malabsorption. Similar intestinal absorption deficiencies are associated with short bowel syndrome and necrotizing enterocolitis.

Reject Due To

Urine and feces mixed
Feces collected in any preservative or fixative
Reject

Method Name

Benedict's Copper Reduction Reaction

Forms

If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request (T728) with the specimen.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Saturday

Report Available

1 to 3 days