Abnormal Circulating Glutamine Concentration C5139046
A metabolic condition where glutamine, an amino acid used in protein production and immune function, is present at abnormal levels in the blood.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E88.9
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- metabolic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Altered mental status
Significant change in mental functioning including disorientation, agitation, or lethargy.
Seek immediate medical attention if confusion becomes severe or sudden changes in mental status occur.
Rapid breathing
Increased respiratory rate that may indicate metabolic disturbance.
Seek immediate emergency care if experiencing severe difficulty breathing or rapid breathing with confusion.
Fatigue
(constitutional)Persistent tiredness and lack of energy that is not relieved by rest.
Frequency: 70-80% of patients
Nausea
(gastrointestinal)Feeling of sickness with an urge to vomit.
Frequency: 60-70% of patients
Abdominal pain
(gastrointestinal)Discomfort or pain in the abdominal region.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Confusion
(neurologic)Difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, or making decisions.
Frequency: 30-40% of patients
Loss of appetite
(gastrointestinal)Reduced desire to eat food.
Frequency: 45-55% of patients
Low blood pressure
(cardiovascular)Blood pressure readings below normal range.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Skin changes
(dermatologic)Various skin manifestations including discoloration or rash.
Frequency: 5-10% of patients
Muscle weakness
(constitutional)Reduced muscle strength and difficulty performing physical tasks.
Frequency: 35-45% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Exercise prescription and weight management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Glutamine-modified nutrition plan
Depending on whether levels are high or low, adjusting glutamine intake through targeted dietary changes helps normalize concentrations. For low glutamine, emphasis on glutamine-rich foods; for high glutamine, strategic restriction may be needed.
Amino acid profile monitoring
Regular testing of plasma amino acid levels, including glutamine, helps guide dietary adjustments and assess treatment efficacy. Comprehensive metabolic panels provide valuable additional information.
Additional treatment options
Ammonia scavenger therapy
In cases where elevated glutamine is related to hyperammonemia, medications that help remove excess ammonia may be considered. These treatments address the underlying metabolic dysfunction.
medicationGut microbiome support
Supporting gut health through probiotics and prebiotics may influence glutamine metabolism, as the intestines both use and produce glutamine. A healthy microbiome supports overall amino acid homeostasis.
complementaryMetabolic stress reduction
Reducing physiological stress through adequate rest, proper hydration, and avoiding excessive exercise helps maintain stable glutamine levels. Periods of extreme physical stress can significantly alter glutamine metabolism.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Circulating Glutamine Concentration C5139046?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Newsholme P, Procopio J, Lima MM, Pithon-Curi TC, Curi R. Glutamine and glutamate - their central role in cell metabolism and function. Cell Biochem Funct. 2003.
American Association for Clinical Chemistry. Clinical Laboratory Testing Reference Guide for Abnormal Amino Acid Concentrations. AACC Guidelines. 2020.
Wernerman J, Kirketeig T, Andersson B, et al. Scandinavian glutamine trial: a pragmatic multi-centre randomised clinical trial of intensive care patients. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand. 2011.
Rodas PC, Rooyackers O, Hebert C, Norberg A, Wernerman J. Glutamine and glutathione at ICU admission in relation to outcome. Clin Nutr. 2012.
European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. ESPEN Guidelines on Parenteral Nutrition: Amino Acids. Clin Nutr. 2009.
Curi R, Lagranha CJ, Doi SQ, et al. Molecular mechanisms of glutamine action. J Cell Physiol. 2005.
International Society for Metabolic Disease. Consensus on Diagnosis and Management of Inherited Amino Acid Metabolism Disorders. ISMD Report. 2019.
Häberle J, Burlina A, Chakrapani A, et al. Suggested guidelines for the diagnosis and management of glutamine synthetase deficiency. J Inherit Metab Dis. 2019.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Abnormal Circulating Glutamine Concentration C5139046. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy