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Acetonemsmtserpl

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test measures the level of acetone, a type of ketone body, in your blood to help monitor fat metabolism and detect conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis.

Quick summary

{"Measures acetone (a ketone) in blood serum or plasma","Used to diagnose and monitor diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)","Helps evaluate unexplained high blood sugar or metabolic disorders","Results indicate how your body is breaking down fat for energy","Often ordered when someone has symptoms of DKA or uncontrolled diabetes"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110091-6
Short code
ACET
Synonyms
Acetone Msmt SerPl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST/Gold top) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Critical range
— – 20 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Enzymatic assay or Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
CPT
80378
SNOMED
104092002
Specimen volume
2-3 mL of serum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The acetone blood test measures the amount of acetone, a ketone body, in your serum or plasma. Ketones are produced when your body breaks down fat for energy instead of using glucose (sugar). This test is part of a broader set of tests called ketone testing and is specifically used to detect and monitor conditions where ketone production becomes abnormally high.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order an acetone test if you have symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication of diabetes. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and breath that smells fruity. The test is also used to monitor people with type 1 diabetes or those following a ketogenic diet. Additionally, it may be ordered if you have unexplained weight loss, metabolic disorders, or persistent high blood sugar levels.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is collected into a tube containing an anticoagulant to prevent clotting. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where the acetone level is measured. No special preparation is typically required, but follow your doctor's instructions regarding fasting or medication adjustments.

Understanding your results

In healthy individuals, acetone levels are typically very low or undetectable. Elevated levels may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, starvation or prolonged fasting, a ketogenic diet, alcoholism, or certain metabolic disorders. Your doctor will interpret your results alongside other test results and your clinical symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.

Reference range

Normal: < 1.0 mg/dL (< 0.17 mmol/L) or Not Detectable. Elevated: > 3.0 mg/dL (> 0.5 mmol/L) may indicate ketoacidosisN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Fasting is not mandatory but may affect results. Inform the laboratory of any medications, especially metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, or insulin

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required before the acetone test?
Generally, no special preparation is needed. However, follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider. Keep in mind that recent meals, especially those high in fat or low in carbohydrates, may affect ketone levels.
What happens if my acetone level is high?
High acetone levels indicate your body is producing too many ketones. This may require immediate medical attention, especially if you have diabetes. Your doctor may need to adjust your insulin, provide fluids, and monitor you closely to prevent complications.
Can I test for ketones at home?
Yes, there are home ketone testing kits that measure ketones in blood or urine. However, these are not as precise as laboratory blood tests. Consult your doctor about appropriate home testing frequency and when to seek medical care based on results.
What is the difference between blood and urine ketone testing?
Blood ketone tests (like the acetone test) measure the actual level of ketones circulating in your blood and provide more immediate and accurate results. Urine tests detect ketones that have been excreted, which may reflect ketone production from hours earlier.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Ketone BodiesSource
  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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy