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Acetonemsmtbld

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A blood test that measures acetone levels to evaluate ketone production in the body.

Quick summary

{"Measures acetone, a type of ketone body, in blood","Used to diagnose and monitor diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)","Helps assess metabolic conditions like ketosis","Sample collected via blood draw from vein","Results help doctors evaluate how your body is metabolizing fat"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109547-0
Short code
ACETB
Synonyms
Acetone Msmt Bld
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Gray-top tube (sodium fluoride/potassium oxalate) or purple-top tube (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Enzymatic assay (beta-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase) or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
CPT
80378
SNOMED
39854009
Specimen volume
2-3 mL whole blood
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Blood Acetone test measures the amount of acetone, a type of ketone body, in your blood. Ketones are produced when your body breaks down fat for energy instead of using glucose. This test helps healthcare providers understand how your body is metabolizing fats and whether you have abnormal levels of ketones in your bloodstream.

Why is this test performed?

This test is primarily ordered to help diagnose and monitor conditions associated with high ketone production. It is commonly used for patients with diabetes to check for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication. The test may also be used to evaluate unexplained metabolic disturbances, monitor patients on ketogenic diets, or assess fasting states. Additionally, it can help differentiate between different causes of metabolic acidosis.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The procedure is quick and typically takes only a few minutes. You may feel a slight sting when the needle is inserted or removed. There is minimal risk involved, though you might experience some bruising at the injection site.

How to prepare for the test?

Your doctor may ask you to fast for a certain period before the test, as eating can affect ketone levels. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or dietary changes you are experiencing. If you have diabetes, follow your doctor's instructions regarding insulin or medication use before the test. Always disclose your complete medical history to ensure accurate interpretation of results.

Reference range

Reference range: <1.0 mg/dL (<17.2 μmol/L) in whole blood. Results may vary by laboratory methodology.N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required. Inform laboratory of recent meals, diabetes status, or ketogenic diet. Avoid alcohol consumption prior to collection as it may affect ketone body metabolism.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean if my blood acetone is high?
High blood acetone levels indicate your body is producing excess ketones, which can occur in diabetic ketoacidosis, starvation, excessive alcohol consumption, or very low-carbohydrate diets. This requires medical attention, especially if you have diabetes, as it may lead to serious complications.
Is fasting required before this test?
Your doctor may recommend fasting for 8-12 hours before the test, as food intake can affect ketone levels. Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions regarding fasting and medications.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few hours to one day, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during a follow-up appointment.
Can I do this test at home?
While there are home ketone meters available that measure ketone levels in blood, they provide different measurements than the laboratory acetone test. For accurate medical diagnosis and monitoring, laboratory testing is recommended.
What conditions are associated with abnormal acetone levels?
Abnormal acetone levels are most commonly associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), starvation or prolonged fasting, ketogenic diets, alcoholism, thyroid disorders, and certain metabolic diseases. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health condition.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - KetonesSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Diabetic KetoacidosisSource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - KetonesSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy