Water-Soluble Contrast in Random Fluid — Post-procedure
Detects water-soluble contrast material in a collected body fluid after a procedure, usually to evaluate for leakage or an abnormal connection.
["Finding contrast in the fluid may indicate leakage or an abnormal passage from the organ that received the contrast."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86422-3
- Short code
- AXR and Flr UGI W H2O soluble contr PO
- Synonyms
- AXR and Flr UGI W H2O soluble contr PO
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr-rf
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test checks a body-fluid specimen for water-soluble contrast material that was administered during an imaging or surgical procedure. It is generally used to identify a leak or an abnormal connection involving the organ that received the contrast.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered after imaging or surgery if there is concern that contrast has entered an unexpected body cavity or fluid space. Depending on the procedure and fluid involved, it can help evaluate for leakage, a fistula, or an unintended connection between organs.
How is the test performed?
A clinician collects an appropriate fluid specimen, often during or shortly after the related procedure. The laboratory examines the specimen for contrast material using validated testing methods. The result is interpreted together with the procedure performed and the fluid source.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required when the specimen is collected during another procedure. If you are instructed to provide the specimen yourself, follow the collection instructions exactly and tell the healthcare team about any recent imaging or contrast administration.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detecting water-soluble contrast in an unexpected body fluid may indicate leakage from the contrast-filled organ or an abnormal connection between organs. A positive finding can support the diagnosis of a fistula, perforation, or procedure-related leak. Interpretation depends on the fluid type, collection time, and procedure because contrast may also be present for expected reasons, such as shortly after surgery.
Short name
Water-soluble contrast in fluid
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Does a negative result rule out a leak?
Is this the same as a blood test for kidney function after contrast?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy