Serum Amino Acid Profile (Quantitative)

What This Test Measures

Amino acids are essential organic compounds that your body uses to build proteins. This test typically includes a broad panel of amino acids, such as alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine. Some panels may also include branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like valine, leucine, and isoleucine, which are important for muscle function and energy production.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or unexplained weight changes. It can also be used to diagnose conditions such as metabolic disorders, liver disease, kidney problems, or certain genetic disorders. Additionally, it may be part of a broader evaluation for malnutrition or after surgery to monitor recovery.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the serum (the liquid part without clots) for testing. This sample is then analyzed in a laboratory using advanced techniques like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or mass spectrometry to measure amino acid levels accurately.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps identify imbalances that may indicate conditions like phenylketonuria (a genetic disorder affecting amino acid metabolism), maple syrup urine disease, or other inherited metabolic disorders. It can also assess how well your body is processing amino acids if you have liver or kidney issues.