LOINC Code 38509-6: Viscosity 30 Min post collection Ql (Sem)

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 Viscosity^30M post collection. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Semen.

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

• Viscosity of Semen Qualitative--30 minutes post collection
• Viscosity^30M post collection
• Viscosity is commonly measured for synovial fluid or semen using a 'string test', in which drops of test fluid are expelled through a syringe needle or pipette and the extent of the trailing string is observed. Synovial fluid is very viscous due to its high concentration of polymerized hyaluronate and will form a trailing string that is a few inches long when exiting a syringe needle. Less viscous fluid may be seen with inflammation and will have a shorter string. Semen is tested in a similar manner; a normal sample leaves the needle or pipette in small drops with very little trailing thread, while a semen sample that is abnormally viscous forms a thread more than 2 cm long. A semen specimen that is more viscous than normal after liquefaction may indicate reduced sperm motility.
• 30M p coll; After; Coll; Collect; Collected; Ejaculate; Genitourinary; GU; Ordinal; Point in time; PST; QL; Qual; Qualitative; Random; Screen; Sem; Seminal fluid; Smn; SMPLS; SPEC; URO; Urology; Vicos; Viscos; Viscosity

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

Frequently asked questions