Chloridestlscnc
A stool test that measures chloride levels to help diagnose digestive disorders and evaluate how your body absorbs electrolytes.
{"Measures chloride concentration in stool sample","Helps diagnose conditions like congenital chloridorrhea","Evaluates electrolyte absorption in the intestines","Sample is collected at home using a sterile container","Results help doctors understand digestive system function"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15158-9
- Short code
- Cl_stool
- Synonyms
- Chloride Stl-sCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean, dry stool container (plastic or glass with tight-fitting lid)
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 30
- Critical range
- — – 90 not specified
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Ion-selective electrode (ISE) or coulometric method
- CPT
- 82436
- SNOMED
- 271453006
- Specimen volume
- 1-5 grams (approximately 1-5 mL) of fresh stool
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours; Frozen (-20°C): 2 weeks
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The stool chloride test measures the amount of chloride, an important electrolyte, in your bowel movements. Chloride is a mineral that helps maintain fluid balance and is essential for proper digestion. This test helps doctors understand how well your intestines are absorbing or secreting chloride.
Why is it ordered?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like chronic diarrhea, dehydration, or unexplained weight loss. It helps diagnose conditions that affect chloride absorption in the intestines, such as congenital chloridorrhea (a rare genetic disorder) or other malabsorption disorders.
How is the sample collected?
You will receive a sterile container from your healthcare provider. Collect a small sample of stool (about the size of a walnut) during a bowel movement. Avoid contaminating the sample with urine or toilet water. Label the container with your name and date, and deliver it to the laboratory as soon as possible, preferably within a few hours.
What do the results mean?
Abnormal chloride levels in stool can indicate digestive problems. High levels may suggest conditions like congenital chloridorrhea, while low levels might indicate poor chloride absorption. Your doctor will interpret results based on your symptoms and other test findings.
Reference range
10-30 mmol/Lnot specified
No fasting required. Collect random fresh stool specimen free of urine or water contamination; discontinue laxatives/enemas at least 48 hours prior if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
Are there any risks with this test?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if my results are abnormal?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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 14, 2026. · Read our editorial policy