Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test
This test measures the level of beta-aminoisobutyric acid in a dried blood spot sample to help evaluate certain metabolic conditions.
{"Measures beta-aminoisobutyric acid levels in blood","Used to screen for metabolic disorders related to pyrimidine breakdown","Performed using a small dried blood spot sample","Abnormal results may indicate genetic conditions","Results help doctors diagnose rare metabolic diseases"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53064-2
- Short code
- BAIB-DBS
- Synonyms
- B-AIB DBS-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Dried blood spot (DBS) collection card - Whatman 903 Protein Saver or equivalent FDA-approved filter paper
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 83789
- SNOMED
- 397598004
- Specimen volume
- 5-7 blood spots (approximately 50-75 μL per spot) collected on DBS card; minimum 3 spots required for analysis
- Stability
- Dried blood spots are stable for 7 days at room temperature (15-25°C), 30 days at 2-8°C, and up to 1 year at -20°C or below. Protect from direct sunlight and humidity.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test? The complete blood count, or CBC, is a common blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is often part of a routine checkup and gives your healthcare team a broad picture of your overall health.
The beta-aminoisobutyrate test measures the amount of beta-aminoisobutyric acid (BAIB) in your blood. BAIB is a substance produced when thymine, a building block of DNA, is broken down in your body. This test is performed using a dried blood spot (DBS) sample, which is blood collected on a special filter paper card.
Why is this test done? Your provider may order a CBC to help diagnose symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, fever, or unusual bruising, to check for conditions like anemia, infection, or inflammation, or to monitor an existing condition and see how a treatment is affecting your blood over time.
This test is primarily used to help diagnose and monitor certain rare genetic metabolic disorders that affect how your body breaks down pyrimidines (components of DNA). It may also be used to evaluate unexplained symptoms related to metabolism or to screen individuals with a family history of these conditions.
How is the sample collected? A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, usually on the inside of the elbow. A lab professional cleans the area, places a thin needle, and collects the blood into a tube. The process takes only a few minutes, and you can go home right afterward.
A small blood sample is obtained by pricking your finger (or heel in infants). The blood drops are placed on a special filter paper card and allowed to dry completely. This dried blood spot is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The DBS method requires only a tiny amount of blood and is convenient for collection, especially in newborns.
What do the results mean? Values outside the typical range can suggest problems such as anemia, an infection, inflammation, or a bleeding or clotting issue. Your provider will look at the numbers together with your symptoms and medical history to decide whether more testing or treatment is needed.
Results are reported as the concentration of beta-aminoisobutyrate in the blood. Your doctor will interpret the results based on your age, symptoms, and other test findings. Abnormal levels may require further testing to confirm a diagnosis.
Reference range
Beta-aminoisobutyrate in dried blood spots: typically <5 μmol/L in healthy individuals; values vary by laboratory and assay methodologyN/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary for beta-aminoisobutyrate measurement in dried blood spots. Patients should follow normal dietary habits prior to specimen collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated levels of beta-aminoisobutyrate may indicate a deficiency in the enzyme responsible for breaking down BAIB, which can be seen in certain inherited metabolic disorders. These conditions are typically rare but can affect growth, development, and overall health if not properly managed.
This test helps healthcare providers diagnose conditions related to pyrimidine metabolism, monitor treatment effectiveness in diagnosed patients, and differentiate between various metabolic disorders that may present with similar symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Is fasting required before this test?
Are there any risks associated with this test?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if my results are abnormal?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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.
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