3oh3meglutarateamnscnc
This test measures the level of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarate in amniotic fluid to help diagnose a rare metabolic disorder in the unborn baby.
{"The test checks for a metabolic disorder called 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric aciduria","It uses a sample of amniotic fluid collected during pregnancy","Early diagnosis helps doctors plan appropriate treatment before birth","Abnormal results indicate the baby may have difficulty processing certain fats"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69833-2
- Short code
- 3OH3Me-glutarate Amn-sCnc
- Synonyms
- 3OH3Me-glutarate Amn-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarate test measures the amount of a substance called 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarate (HMG) in the amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby during pregnancy. This test is part of prenatal metabolic screening and helps determine if the unborn baby has a rare genetic disorder called 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric aciduria (HMGuria).
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare provider collects a small sample of amniotic fluid using a procedure called amniocentesis. During amniocentesis, a thin needle is inserted through the abdomen into the uterus to withdraw some fluid. The procedure is usually performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure safety. The fluid is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why is this test important?
3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaric aciduria is a rare inherited metabolic disorder where the body cannot properly break down certain fats and proteins. This causes harmful substances to build up, which can lead to serious health problems including developmental delays, seizures, and life-threatening metabolic crises. Detecting this condition before birth allows doctors to prepare for immediate treatment after delivery.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is amniocentesis safe?
When is this test typically performed?
What happens if the test shows abnormal results?
Can this condition be treated?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy