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Lactate

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Lactate is a metabolite that indicates the level of anaerobic metabolism and tissue oxygenation in the body.

Quick summary

Lactate measures anaerobic metabolism and tissue oxygenation.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
mmol/L
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Lactate, Abbott Lactate, Siemens Lactate
interpretation: {"text":"0.5–2.2 mmol/L: Lactate levels within this range are considered normal and indicate adequate tissue oxygenation.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":">2.2 mmol/L: Levels above the normal range may indicate anaerobic metabolism due to inadequate oxygen supply or other underlying conditions.","label":"Elevated"}

Lactate is produced by most tissues in the body, particularly muscle cells, red blood cells, brain, and skin, when there is insufficient oxygen supply to meet metabolic demands.

Elevated lactate levels, or hyperlactatemia, can occur due to increased production or decreased clearance, often seen in conditions like sepsis, shock, and heart failure.

Measuring lactate levels is crucial in diagnosing and managing conditions related to tissue hypoxia and monitoring the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated lactate levels?
Elevated lactate levels can be caused by conditions such as sepsis, shock, heart failure, and severe dehydration, which lead to inadequate tissue oxygenation.
How is a lactate test performed?
A lactate test is typically performed using a blood sample, often drawn from an artery or a vein, and analyzed in a laboratory.
  1. 1
    Lactate Measurement and Clinical SignificanceSource
  2. 2
    Lactate as a Biomarker of SepsisSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy