Skip to content

2mecitrateserplscnc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A blood test that measures the level of 2-methylcitrate in your serum or plasma, used to help diagnose certain metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

{"2-methylcitrate is a substance produced during the breakdown of certain amino acids and fatty acids","This test helps diagnose inherited metabolic disorders like propionic acidemia and methylmalonic acidemia","Abnormal results may indicate problems with vitamin B12 metabolism or mitochondrial function","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results are typically available within a few days"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26904-3
Short code
2-MCIT
Synonyms
2Me-citrate SerPl-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
— – 25 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
82520
SNOMED
41355001
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 2-methylcitrate test measures the amount of 2-methylcitric acid (also called 2-methylcitrate) in your blood. 2-methylcitrate is an organic acid that is produced when your body breaks down certain amino acids (such as isoleucine, valine, threonine, and methionine) and odd-chain fatty acids. This test is part of a group of tests called organic acid analysis, which helps evaluate how well your body metabolizes these substances.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood will be collected in a special tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. You do not need to fast before this test in most cases, but follow any specific instructions given by your doctor.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms suggesting a metabolic disorder, such as unusual tiredness, developmental delays, vomiting, seizures, or abnormal breath odor. It may also be used to monitor known metabolic conditions or to evaluate unexplained acidosis (buildup of acid in the body).

What do the results mean?

Normal 2-methylcitrate levels vary by age and laboratory. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your specific situation, medical history, and other test results. Elevated levels may indicate problems with how your body breaks down certain nutrients.

Reference range

Reference range varies by laboratory and method. Typical reference range for 2-Methylcitrate: 0.1-2.5 mmol/mol creatinine (urine) or 0.5-5.0 micromol/L (plasma/serum). Consult laboratory-specific reference ranges.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Maintain normal diet and hydration. Inform laboratory of any medications or supplements that may affect metabolite levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required before the test?
Fasting is typically not required for this test, but follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions. In some cases, your doctor may ask you to fast for a certain period to get more accurate baseline results.
Are there any risks with this blood test?
The risks are minimal and similar to any standard blood draw. You may experience slight pain, bruising, or dizziness. These side effects usually resolve quickly.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 3-7 days, depending on the laboratory. Specialized metabolic testing may take longer.
What happens if my results are abnormal?
An abnormal result does not necessarily mean you have a serious condition. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine the cause. You may need additional tests for a definitive diagnosis. If a metabolic disorder is confirmed, treatment options including dietary modifications, supplements, and medications may be recommended.
Can children have this test?
Yes, this test is commonly performed in children, especially newborns and infants with symptoms of metabolic disorders. It is often part of newborn screening follow-up or diagnostic evaluation for suspected metabolic diseases.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Organic Acid Metabolism DisorderSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - 2-MethylcitrateSource
  3. 3
    National Center for Biotechnology Information - Propionic AcidemiaSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy