Skip to content

Alpha-Amino Nitrogen, Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

This blood test measures the concentration of nitrogen contributed by amino acids in plasma and may help evaluate protein nutrition and metabolism.

Quick summary

["The result provides a general measure of circulating amino acid nitrogen and must be interpreted alongside your health history and other laboratory tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1784-8
Short code
A-AA Nitrogen Plas-mCnc
Synonyms
A-AA Nitrogen Plas-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
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?

Alpha-amino nitrogen is the nitrogen contained in amino acids, the building blocks used to make proteins and other body compounds. This test measures its mass concentration in plasma, the liquid portion of blood.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an assessment of nutritional status, protein metabolism, or the function of organs that affect amino acid levels. It is often interpreted with other laboratory results rather than by itself.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the plasma is separated from the cells. A laboratory then measures the alpha-amino nitrogen in the plasma using a chemical analysis method.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required unless your clinician or laboratory gives different instructions. Tell the healthcare team about fasting, medications, supplements, and recent illness so the result can be interpreted appropriately.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-amino nitrogen, plasma

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure the same thing as a blood urea nitrogen test?
No. Blood urea nitrogen measures nitrogen from urea, while alpha-amino nitrogen measures nitrogen contributed by circulating amino acids.
Is fasting required for this test?
It is not usually required, but your clinician may request fasting for other tests ordered at the same time. Follow the specific instructions provided by the laboratory.
Can I use this result alone to assess my nutrition?
No. Your clinician will interpret it with your diet, medical history, physical examination, and other laboratory results because many factors can affect amino acid nitrogen levels.
  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