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Cefmetazole Serum/Plasma Concentration (Quantitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of the antibiotic cefmetazole in your blood or plasma. Cefmetazole is used to treat bacterial infections and may be prescribed if you’re receiving intravenous treatment.

Quick summary

["Your cefmetazole levels help doctors monitor how well your body is responding to this medication."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25222-1
Short code
CMZS
Synonyms
Cefmetazole Islt Slgr Mcbct AB 30.0
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile screw-cap tube or mycobacterial culture transport container; sealed leak-proof biohazard container suitable for Category B infectious substances
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
method-for-slow-growing-mycobacteria-antibiotic-concentration-at-ug-ml
CPT
87186
SNOMED
419801005
Specimen volume
Pure culture isolate on solid or in liquid medium; minimum 0.5 mL of liquid culture or visible growth on solid medium sufficient for susceptibility testing
Stability
Stable for up to 24 hours at room temperature (15-25°C) in transport medium; subculture to appropriate media within 48 hours of collection; do not freeze
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
168–504 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking cefmetazole to ensure the drug is working properly and at the right dose. It’s especially important if you have kidney issues, as cefmetazole is processed by the kidneys.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood, or a catheter may be placed for continuous monitoring of your cefmetazole levels.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., micrograms per milliliter). Your doctor will interpret these results in relation to your medical condition and treatment plan.

Possible Causes of Abnormal Results

Low levels might indicate the drug isn’t being absorbed well or your body is clearing it too quickly. High levels could suggest kidney problems or improper dosing. Always discuss results with your provider.

Reference range

Susceptible (S), Intermediate (I), or Resistant (R) interpretive criteria based on CLSI M24 guidelines for slow-growing mycobacteria at 30.0 ug/mL. Report qualitative susceptibility result only.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to next dose of antimicrobial therapy when possible for optimal clinical interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Cefmetazole levels help prevent antibiotic resistance and ensure safe dosing. Low levels may require dose adjustments, while very high levels could signal kidney dysfunction or allergic reactions. Regular monitoring is critical for patients with kidney disease or those receiving long-term therapy.

Short name

Cefmetazole Level

Frequently asked questions

What is cefmetazole, and how is it used?
Cefmetazole is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, often given intravenously. It belongs to the cephalosporin class of drugs and works by stopping bacteria from growing.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Avoid caffeine or alcohol before blood draws, as they may affect test results.
How long will it take to get my test results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will contact you with the final interpretation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy