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Test ID: SGBF    
Specific Gravity, Body Fluid

Method Description Describes how the test is performed and provides a method-specific reference

The refractive index of a substance, which is its light-bending power as compared to air, is a physical constant that varies directly with the chemical composition of the substance. Therefore, the specific gravity of a body fluid may be determined from the refractive index of a sample of the fluid. This is accomplished by viewing a drop of the solution through the lens-prism system of the total solids meter (refractometer). Refractometers are temperature-compensated and will read standards correctly only at temperatures between 20 degrees C and 38 degrees C.(Wolf AV. Aqueous Solutions and Body Fluids. Their Concentrative Properties and Conversion Tables. Edited by Hoeber Medical Division. New York, Harper and Row Publishers. 1996, pp 182)

Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed Outlines the days and times the test is performed. This field reflects the day and time the sample must be in the testing laboratory to begin the testing process and includes any specimen preparation and processing time required before the test is performed. Some tests are listed as continuously performed, which means assays are performed several times during the day.

Monday through Sunday; Continuously

Analytic Time Defines the amount of time it takes the laboratory to setup and perform the test. This is defined in number of days. The shortest interval of time expressed is "same day/1 day," which means the results may be available the same day that the sample is received in the testing laboratory. One day means results are available 1 day after the sample is received in the laboratory.

Same day/1 day

Maximum Laboratory Time Defines the maximum time from specimen receipt at Mayo Medical Laboratories until the release of the test result

1 day

Performing Laboratory Location The location of the laboratory that performs the test

Rochester