38509-6

LOINC code 38509-6 identifies "Viscosity of Semen Qualitative--30 minutes 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.

This code measures Viscosity^30M post collection in Semen. It belongs to the SPEC class in the LOINC classification.

LOINC (Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes) is a universal standard for identifying laboratory and clinical observations. It is maintained by the Regenstrief Institute and used worldwide for health data exchange.