Fecal Sodium and Potassium Content by Stool Probe (Qualitative/Quantitative)
This test measures the presence and amount of sodium and potassium in your stool sample, which can help identify issues like diarrhea, electrolyte imbalances, or gastrointestinal disorders.
["Assists doctors in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting digestion and fluid balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 76594-1
- Short code
- E faecium sodA XXX.tiss NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- E faecium sodA XXX.tiss NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. It can also be used to check for conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or metabolic disorders that affect electrolyte levels in stool.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You’ll provide a fresh stool sample, often collected in a container provided by your healthcare provider. If a quantitative measurement is required, follow instructions carefully to ensure accuracy.
How the Test Works
A specialized probe is inserted into the stool sample to detect and quantify sodium and potassium levels. The results help determine if your body is losing these electrolytes excessively or if they’re retained abnormally.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Qualitative results indicate whether sodium or potassium is present (or absent) in your stool. Quantitative results provide exact measurements, which can help pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. Abnormal findings may prompt further testing or medical evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High sodium or potassium levels in stool can signal conditions like diarrhea (especially with laxatives), malabsorption syndromes, or certain metabolic disorders. Low levels may suggest conditions like electrolyte retention, kidney issues, or medications affecting digestion. This test is critical for diagnosing and managing gastrointestinal and metabolic health.
Short name
Stool Electrolyte Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
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