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Cholesterol, Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the concentration of cholesterol in a body-fluid sample. The result must be interpreted according to the specific fluid collected and the clinical situation.

Quick summary

["This test measures cholesterol in a body fluid, but its meaning depends on the type of fluid and why it was collected."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12183-0
Short code
Cholest Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
Cholest Fld-mCnc
Category
lipid
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 measures the amount of cholesterol in a body-fluid sample, such as fluid from a body cavity or another clinically collected fluid. The test name does not specify the fluid type or laboratory method, so both should be confirmed with your healthcare provider.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to characterize a fluid collection, understand its lipid content, or investigate why fluid accumulated in a particular area. The reason for testing and the results are interpreted together with symptoms, examination findings, and other tests.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory uses a validated assay to measure cholesterol in the submitted fluid. The sample is processed and tested according to the laboratory's procedures, and the result is reported as a mass concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of fluid being collected and the collection method. Follow your clinician's instructions, including whether fasting is required and how and when the fluid should be collected.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cholesterol, Fluid

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine blood cholesterol test?
No. This test measures cholesterol in a body-fluid specimen rather than in blood. A standard lipid panel does not provide this fluid-specific result.
Which body fluid is included in this test?
The compressed test name identifies the specimen only as fluid. Your clinician or laboratory should specify the exact fluid source, such as pleural, peritoneal, or another fluid.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting requirements vary by fluid type and clinical purpose. Because this is not a routine blood lipid test, follow the specific collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional.
  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