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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid in blood. It may be used with other tests to assess amino acid metabolism and nutritional or metabolic status.

Quick summary

["This blood test measures alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid that may help evaluate nutrition and metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1788-9
Short code
A-Aminobutyr SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr SerPl-mCnc
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 concentration of alpha-aminobutyric acid, a type of amino acid, in a blood sample. Amino acids are building blocks used by the body to make proteins and other important compounds.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered as part of a nutritional assessment or when a clinician is evaluating an inherited or acquired problem with amino acid metabolism. It is generally interpreted together with other laboratory and clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory separates the serum or plasma and measures alpha-aminobutyric acid using a validated laboratory method. The result is reported as a mass concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Special preparation is often unnecessary, but follow your clinician's or laboratory's instructions. Fasting or stopping supplements or medications should be done only if your healthcare professional specifically advises it.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What does this test measure?
It measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, in serum or plasma.
What conditions can this test help evaluate?
It may help assess nutritional status and some inherited or acquired disorders of amino acid metabolism. Results are usually considered alongside the rest of your medical evaluation.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is not always required. Ask your clinician or laboratory whether any special preparation applies to your order.
  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