Chloridesalscnc
A test that measures the amount of chloride in your saliva to help evaluate electrolyte balance and certain gland functions.
{"Measures chloride levels in saliva (oral fluid)","Helps evaluate salivary gland function and electrolyte balance","Sample is collected by spitting into a container","May be used to diagnose conditions affecting saliva composition","No special preparation is typically required"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2074-3
- Short code
- CLSAL
- Synonyms
- Chloride Sal-sCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile saliva collection device (e.g., Salimetrics oral swab, dental roll, or sterile container)
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 30
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Ion-selective electrode (ISE) or indirect potentiometry
- CPT
- 82436
- SNOMED
- 271295006
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of whole saliva
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Saliva Chloride test measures the concentration of chloride, an important electrolyte, in your saliva. Chloride is a mineral that helps maintain fluid balance, aids in digestion, and supports proper nerve and muscle function. This test evaluates how well your salivary glands are working and can provide information about your overall electrolyte status.
How is the sample collected?
For this test, you will be asked to provide a saliva sample. This is usually done by spitting into a special container. You may be asked to avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth for a certain period before the test. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why might I need this test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms related to salivary gland problems, such as dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, or abnormal taste. It may also be used to monitor conditions that affect electrolyte balance or to evaluate the function of salivary glands.
Understanding your results
Normal chloride levels in saliva can vary depending on the laboratory and the specific methods used. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test findings. Abnormal results may indicate issues with salivary gland function, dehydration, or other electrolyte imbalances.
Reference range
10-30 mmol/Lnot specified
Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, chewing gum, or oral hygiene for 30-60 min prior; rinse mouth with water before collection
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Does the test require fasting?
Is the test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What can affect my saliva chloride levels?
Do I need to do anything special to prepare?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3LOINC Code ReferenceSource
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