LOINCActiveObservation

LOINC Code 14620-9: Appearance (Pleur fld)

14620-9 is a LOINC code used to identify Appearance (Pleur fld) in laboratory and clinical observation data. You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges. LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Observation. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Plr fld.

Reviewed by HealthAssure Clinical TeamUpdated 25 May 2026

What is this code?

LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Observation. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Plr fld.

When is it used?

  • Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
  • May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
  • Status: ACTIVE
  • Order vs observation: Observation

What it does not mean

  • The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.

Key facts

  • Appearance of Pleural fluid
  • Observation
  • Appearance; Nominal; Pleural; Pleural fluid; Point in time; Random; SPEC; thoracentesis fluid

Where you may see this code

You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.

Common synonyms

Appearance (Pleur fld)Appearance of Pleural fluidAppearance PlrObservationSPECAppearance, Pleural fluidAper

Frequently asked questions

Code details

Code14620-9
SystemLOINC
Display nameAppearance (Pleur fld)
DescriptionObservation
Short nameAppearance Plr
ComponentObservation
PropertyAper
TimingPt
System (specimen)Plr fld
ScaleNom
ClassSPEC
StatusACTIVE
Order/ObservationObservation

Flags

BillableNo
Valid clinical useNo

Source

SourceLOINC
Version2.82
Releasemain
First released1.0k
Last changed2.79

Consumer names

Appearance, Pleural fluid

Part names

ObservationAperPtPlr fldNomAppearancePoint in time (spot)Pleural fluid

About this content

This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from LOINC. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.

LOINC Code 14620-9 | HealthAssure