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pH Measurement (Specimen and Method Not Specified)

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

Measures the acidity or alkalinity of a specimen. The available test information does not clearly identify the specimen type or testing method.

Quick summary

["A pH test measures how acidic or alkaline a specimen is and is interpreted alongside the person's condition and other laboratory results."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92037-1
Short code
Significant activities PH emerg RptPrd
Synonyms
Significant activities PH emerg RptPrd
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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?

A pH test measures the hydrogen ion concentration in a specimen, indicating whether it is acidic, neutral, or alkaline. The exact specimen and method are not specified in the available test information.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order pH testing to assess the chemical balance of a body fluid or to investigate symptoms affected by acidity. When performed on blood, results can help evaluate possible acid-base imbalances.

How is the test performed?

A small specimen is analyzed using a calibrated laboratory instrument or, for some specimen types, a color-matching test strip. The laboratory uses the appropriate method for the specimen ordered by your clinician.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the specimen and should be confirmed with your healthcare professional. Follow any instructions about fasting, timing, medication changes, or specimen collection, and do not stop medicines unless your clinician advises you to do so.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

pH Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a pH test measure?
It measures the concentration of hydrogen ions, showing whether the specimen is acidic, neutral, or alkaline.
Which specimen is used for this test?
The available test information does not clearly identify the specimen. Confirm with your healthcare professional or laboratory before collection.
Does one abnormal pH result diagnose a specific condition?
No. An abnormal result is nonspecific and must be interpreted with the specimen type, symptoms, medical history, and other relevant test results.
  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