Test ID VISCS Viscosity, Serum
Reporting Name
Viscosity, SUseful For
Detection of increased viscosity
Monitoring patients with hyperviscosity syndrome
Specimen Type
Serum RedSpecimen Required
Container/Tube: Red top
Specimen Volume: 1.5 mL
Collection Instructions: Keep specimen at 37° C (eg, 37° C Thermopak, heat block) until after centrifugation and separation of cells.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.65 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
Serum Red | Refrigerated (preferred) | 28 days | |
Frozen | 28 days | ||
Ambient | 14 days |
Reference Values
≥16 years: ≤1.5 centipoises
Reference values have not been established for patients that are <16 years of age.
Day(s) and Time(s) Performed
Monday through Friday; 3 p.m.
Test Classification
This test has been modified from the manufacturer's instructions. Its performance characteristics were determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
85810
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
VISCS | Viscosity, S | 3128-6 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
8168 | Viscosity, S | 3128-6 |
Clinical Information
Viscosity is the property of fluids to resist flow. Hyperviscosity may be manifested by nasal bleeding, blurred vision, headaches, dizziness, nystagmus, deafness, diplopia, ataxia, paresthesias, or congestive heart failure. Funduscopic examination reveals dilation of retinal veins and flame shaped retinal hemorrhages.
The most common cause of serum hyperviscosity is the presence of large concentrations of IgM monoclonal proteins, and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia accounts for 80% to 90% of hyperviscosity cases. Hyperviscosity syndrome can also occur in multiple myeloma patients.
Because the ability of a monoclonal protein to cause hyperviscosity is affected by its concentration, molecular weight, and aggregation, sera with concentrations of monoclonal IgM greater than 4 g/dL, IgA greater than 5 g/dL, or IgG greater than 6 g/dL should be tested for hyperviscosity.
Serum viscosity and electrophoresis are recommended before and after plasmapheresis in order to correlate viscosity and M-spike with patient symptoms. This correlation may be useful for anticipating the need for repeat plasmapheresis.
Interpretation
Although viscosities greater than 1.5 centipoises (cP) are abnormal, hyperviscosity is rarely present unless the viscosity is greater than 3 cP.
Clinical Reference
Gertz MA, Kyle RA: Hyperviscosity syndrome. J Intensive Care Med. 1995;10:128-141
Analytic Time
Same day/1 dayMethod Name
Sonoclot Coagulation Analyzer
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send the following form with the specimen:
--Hematopathology/Cytogenetics Test Request Form (T726)
--Benign Hematology Test Request Form (T755)