Balanineamnmcnc
This test measures the level of beta-alanine, an amino acid, in the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby during pregnancy.
{"Beta-alanine is an amino acid that helps with muscle function and energy production","This test checks beta-alanine levels in amniotic fluid to assess fetal health","Abnormal levels may indicate certain metabolic or genetic conditions","The test is performed during amniocentesis procedure","Results help doctors monitor fetal development and detect potential issues early"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13390-0
- Short code
- B-Alanine Amn-mCnc
- Synonyms
- B-Alanine Amn-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The beta-alanine test measures how much of this specific amino acid is present in the amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds and protects your baby in the uterus during pregnancy. Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid that plays important roles in muscle function, energy production, and various metabolic processes in the body.
How is the test performed?
This test requires a sample of amniotic fluid, which is collected through a procedure called amniocentesis. During amniocentesis, a thin needle is carefully inserted through your abdomen into the uterus to withdraw a small amount of amniotic fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where specialists measure the beta-alanine concentration using specialized equipment.
Why might I need this test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if there are concerns about your baby's metabolic health or development. It may be part of a comprehensive metabolic screening panel to evaluate fetal amino acid metabolism. The test helps doctors detect certain genetic or metabolic disorders that could affect your baby's health and development.
What do the results mean?
Normal beta-alanine levels in amniotic fluid indicate typical fetal amino acid metabolism. Abnormally high or low levels may suggest metabolic disorders, genetic conditions, or other health concerns. Your doctor will interpret your results along with other test findings to assess your baby's health. If abnormal levels are detected, additional testing and consultation with specialists may be recommended.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the amniocentesis procedure safe?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What happens if my results are abnormal?
Can this test tell me the sex of my baby?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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