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Acetoneserplmcnc

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

A test that measures the level of acetone (a ketone body) in your blood to help diagnose and monitor conditions related to abnormal ketone production.

Quick summary

{"Measures acetone levels in blood serum or plasma","Helps diagnose and monitor diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)","Used to assess ketone buildup in various metabolic conditions","Performed using a simple blood draw","Results help doctors evaluate diabetes control and metabolic health"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5568-1
Short code
ACET
Synonyms
Acetone SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top serum tube or SST (Serum Separator Tube)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Critical range
— – 5 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
265764009
Specimen volume
1.0 mL serum minimum
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 test measures the amount of acetone in your blood serum or plasma. Acetone is one of three ketone bodies (including acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate) produced by your body when it breaks down fat for energy instead of glucose. This typically happens when your body doesn't have enough insulin to use glucose properly, such as in diabetes, or during prolonged fasting/starvation.

Why do I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have diabetes and are showing symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious complication. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, abdominal pain, confusion, and fruity-smelling breath. The test may also be used to monitor ketone levels in people following a ketogenic diet, or to evaluate unexplained metabolic acidosis.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood is collected into a tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test, as instructed by your doctor. Be sure to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.

What do my results mean?

Normal acetone levels are typically very low or undetectable in healthy individuals. Elevated levels may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, alcoholic ketoacidosis, prolonged fasting, starvation, or a ketogenic diet. Very high levels can be a medical emergency. Your doctor will interpret your results alongside other tests and your clinical symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.

Reference range

Less than 1.0 mg/dL (<172 μmol/L) is considered normal. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Fasting is not mandatory but may be requested depending on clinical indication. Avoid alcohol consumption prior to sample collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required before the test?
Yes, you may be asked to fast for 8-12 hours before the test. Your doctor will provide specific instructions. Fasting can help ensure accurate baseline measurements, as recent food intake can affect ketone levels.
Are there any risks with this blood test?
The risks are minimal and include minor bruising, bleeding, or soreness at the injection site. In rare cases, fainting or infection may occur. These risks are similar to any standard blood draw.
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 contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
Can I do a ketone test at home instead?
Home ketone meters are available for blood ketone testing, but they may not measure acetone specifically. Urine ketone test strips are also available but are less accurate for blood ketone levels. Always follow your doctor's recommendations for testing.
What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if your acetone levels are elevated, especially if you have diabetes and experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, confusion, or difficulty breathing. High ketone levels can be a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Ketone Bodies TestSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Diabetic KetoacidosisSource
  3. 3
    American Diabetes Association - DKA (Ketones)Source

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