Carnosine concentration (serum/plasma)
This test measures the amount of carnosine, a naturally occurring dipeptide found in muscles and other tissues, in your blood.
["Carnosine helps protect cells from damage and supports muscle function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13369-4
- Short code
- CARNCSF
- Synonyms
- Carnosine CSF-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile, screw-cap polypropylene CSF collection tube (tube #3 or #4 recommended to minimize blood contamination)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
- CPT
- 82542 (unlisted chromatography procedure) or 83789 (tandem mass spectrometry)
- SNOMED
- 39579001
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 3 months; Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Carnosine?
Carnosine is a compound that plays a role in energy production and cellular health, particularly in muscle tissues. It acts as an antioxidant and helps maintain proper pH balance within cells. While carnosine is present in many tissues, it is most abundant in skeletal muscles.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions that could be linked to carnosine levels, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, or certain metabolic disorders. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions affecting muscle function or oxidative stress.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then processed to measure carnosine concentration using a specialized laboratory technique, often involving high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
What Do Results Mean?
Results are reported as a mass concentration (e.g., micromoles per liter). While reference ranges can vary by lab, abnormal results may indicate conditions affecting muscle metabolism, oxidative stress, or other underlying health issues.
Reference range
Reference values not well established; carnosine levels in CSF are typically very low and vary by analytical method. Consult laboratory-specific reference ranges.N/A
No special preparation required. Inform the ordering physician of any medications, especially supplements containing beta-alanine or L-carnosine, as these may influence results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Carnosine Level
Frequently asked questions
What could cause abnormal carnosine levels?
How often should this test be repeated?
Can diet or supplements affect carnosine levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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