Stool Docusate Sodium Concentration (Qualitative/Quantitative Screening)
This test checks for the presence of docusate sodium, a laxative, in your stool. It may help identify if you’re using laxatives or if there’s an imbalance in stool fluidity.
["Assesses stool consistency and potential laxative use through stool analysis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73408-7
- Short code
- Docusate ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Docusate ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 This Test Measures
Docusate sodium is a synthetic compound often used as a stool softener. This test detects its concentration in your stool, which can indicate recent laxative use or changes in bowel function. The method may involve qualitative screening (presence/absence) or quantitative measurement of its concentration.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re experiencing chronic constipation, unexplained changes in bowel habits, or if laxative use is suspected. It can also help monitor conditions affecting stool consistency, such as certain gastrointestinal disorders.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll provide a fresh stool sample (typically collected in a sterile container) for testing. The sample is analyzed to detect docusate sodium levels, often through methods like immunoassay or nephelometry, depending on the lab’s protocol.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid using laxatives or stool softeners for 24–48 hours before testing if instructed. If you’re unsure, ask your provider to confirm timing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Stool Osmotic Gap or Stool Docusate Test (Screening)
Frequently asked questions
If docusate sodium is detected, it suggests recent laxative use or a condition affecting stool hydration. If absent, it may indicate normal bowel function or no recent laxative exposure. Persistent changes could warrant further evaluation for underlying gastrointestinal issues.
Your doctor may recommend this test to investigate unexplained constipation, assess laxative use, or evaluate stool consistency in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Positive results (detecting docusate) may mean you’ve recently used a laxative. Negative results suggest no recent laxative use or normal stool function. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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