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Cholesterol, Fluid, Qualitative — Filipin Stain

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A qualitative test that detects cholesterol in a fluid specimen using filipin stain and fluorescence microscopy.

Quick summary

["This test reports whether cholesterol was detected in the fluid sample, not the amount present."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101339-0
Short code
Cholest Fib Ql Filipin stain
Synonyms
Cholest Fib Ql Filipin stain
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
filipin-stain
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 is a qualitative laboratory test used to detect cholesterol in a fluid specimen. Filipin stain binds cholesterol, allowing the laboratory to examine the sample under a fluorescence microscope.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when evaluating a fluid collection, such as fluid around the lungs, abdomen, or joints. Detecting cholesterol can help identify cholesterol crystals or support evaluation of a persistent or unexplained fluid buildup.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional collects fluid from the appropriate body site and sends it to the laboratory. The laboratory applies filipin stain and examines the specimen using fluorescence microscopy, reporting cholesterol as detected or not detected.

How do I prepare for the test?

No fasting is usually required for the filipin-stain analysis itself. Preparation depends on how the fluid is collected; follow your clinician's instructions about the procedure and any restrictions needed for the other tests ordered with it.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result means cholesterol was detected in the sampled fluid and may indicate the presence of cholesterol crystals. Such crystals can occur with longstanding fluid accumulation, chronic inflammation, or other conditions affecting fluid-producing surfaces. Results must be interpreted with the fluid collection site, symptoms, and other laboratory findings.

Short name

Qualitative Cholesterol, Fluid

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure how much cholesterol is present?
No. It is qualitative, so the result indicates whether cholesterol was detected rather than providing a concentration.
Why is filipin stain used?
Filipin stain binds cholesterol and produces fluorescence, helping the laboratory identify cholesterol in the fluid specimen.
What if cholesterol is not detected?
A negative result means cholesterol was not detected by this method. It does not by itself identify the cause of the symptoms or rule out every fluid-related condition.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy