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Amino Acid Analysis, Dried Blood Spot — Substance Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures amino acid levels in a dried blood spot, most often used to screen newborns for certain inherited metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

["This test screens the pattern of amino acids in blood for possible inherited metabolic problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50083-5
Short code
AAA DBS-sCnc
Synonyms
AAA DBS-sCnc
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Amino acid analysis measures the amounts of amino acids in a dried blood spot. The pattern of these substances can help identify certain inherited conditions in which the body cannot process amino acids normally.

Why might I need this test?

This test is most commonly included in newborn screening. It may also be used when a healthcare professional is evaluating a child or adult for suspected metabolic disease, poor growth, developmental concerns, or episodes of illness triggered by food or fasting.

How is the test performed?

A small blood sample is collected by heel stick or finger stick and placed on a special card. The card is allowed to air-dry, and the laboratory analyzes the dried blood sample to determine the amino acid pattern.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required for a newborn screening specimen. If the test is being repeated outside routine screening, follow the laboratory's instructions because feeding and illness can sometimes affect the amino acid pattern.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An unusual amino acid pattern may indicate an inherited metabolic disorder that affects how the body processes protein building blocks. Abnormal results can also occur with illness, fasting, nutritional changes, or other temporary factors, so additional testing is usually needed before a diagnosis is made.

Short name

Dried blood spot amino acid analysis

Frequently asked questions

What does this blood test measure?
It measures the levels of amino acids in blood. The overall pattern is evaluated rather than a single amino acid alone.
Is this the same as a newborn screening test?
It is commonly part of newborn screening, although it may also be ordered later when a metabolic condition is suspected.
Does an abnormal result confirm a genetic disorder?
No. An abnormal screening result usually requires confirmatory blood or urine testing and clinical evaluation before any diagnosis is made.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy