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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Dried Blood Spot — Substance Concentration

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

Measures alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, in a dried blood spot to help evaluate amino acid metabolism and nutritional status.

Quick summary

["This blood-spot test measures an amino acid that can be affected by metabolic, nutritional, medication, or organ-related factors."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47559-0
Short code
A-Aminobutyr DBS-sCnc
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr 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?

This test measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid in a dried blood spot. It is part of an amino acid evaluation used to assess how the body is processing amino acids from food.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when an abnormal screening result, poor growth, developmental concerns, or symptoms of a metabolic disorder suggest that amino acid metabolism should be evaluated.

How is the test performed?

A few drops of blood are collected by finger stick or heel stick and placed on a filter card. The card is dried and sent to a laboratory, where alpha-aminobutyric acid is measured.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow the instructions provided by the laboratory or clinician. Tell the healthcare team about recent illness, changes in diet, supplements, and medications, because these can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid (Dried Blood Spot)

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require fasting?
Usually not, but your clinician or laboratory may give specific instructions. Eating and drinking normally is generally acceptable unless you are told otherwise.
Is a dried blood spot the same as a venous blood test?
Both use blood, but a dried blood spot is collected onto a filter card rather than drawn into a tube. The laboratory processes the dried sample differently.
What if the result is abnormal?
Your clinician will consider the result alongside symptoms, diet, medications, and other laboratory findings. Additional or confirmatory testing may be recommended.
  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