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Chloridemsmtstl

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A stool test that measures chloride levels to help diagnose certain digestive disorders.

Quick summary

{"Measures chloride in stool sample","Used to diagnose conditions like cystic fibrosis and pancreatic disorders","Involves collecting a small stool sample at home","Results help evaluate digestive system function"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110298-7
Short code
Cl stool
Synonyms
Chloride Msmt Stl
Category
electrolyte
Sample
stool
Container
Sterile dry stool container (wide-mouthed, leak-proof)
Units
not specified
Ref low
0
Ref high
50
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Ion-selective electrode (ISE) or colorimetric assay
CPT
82436
SNOMED
271344006
Specimen volume
1-5 grams (approximately 1-2 teaspoons) of fresh stool
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours; Frozen (-20°C): 1 week
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The stool chloride test measures the amount of chloride in your stool (bowel movement). Chloride is an electrolyte—a mineral that helps maintain fluid balance and proper digestion. While blood tests commonly check electrolyte levels, this test examines chloride in the digestive tract to help doctors understand how your body is absorbing fluids and salts.

How is the test performed?

You will collect a small sample of your stool in a clean, dry container provided by your healthcare provider. No special preparation like fasting is usually required. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where technicians measure the chloride concentration. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and deliver the sample as instructed.

What do the results mean?

Normal stool chloride levels are typically low. Abnormal results—usually elevated levels—may indicate digestive system problems. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test findings.

Reference range

0-50 mmol/Lnot specified

Specimen: stool

No special preparation or fasting required; collect random liquid stool specimen

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a sweat chloride test?
No, they are different. The sweat chloride test is the gold standard for diagnosing cystic fibrosis and measures chloride in sweat. The stool chloride test examines chloride in bowel movements and is used to evaluate different digestive conditions.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Typically, no fasting is required for a stool chloride test. However, always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.
Are there any risks or side effects?
This test involves collecting a stool sample only, so there are no physical risks or side effects. It is a safe, non-invasive test.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Stool TestsSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Cystic Fibrosis DiagnosisSource
  3. 3
    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney DiseasesSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy