Serum/plasma concentration of cefuroxime (a beta-lactam antibiotic)
This test measures the amount of cefuroxime, a medication used to treat bacterial infections, in your blood. It helps doctors check how well your body is processing the drug.
["This test helps monitor antibiotic levels for proper dosing and safety."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73462-4
- Short code
- Cefuroxime ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Cefuroxime ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking cefuroxime to treat or prevent bacterial infections. They may also check it if you have kidney or liver problems, which can affect how your body processes the drug. This helps ensure you’re getting the right dose and avoiding side effects.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure cefuroxime levels using a sensitive detection method (likely immunoassay or similar).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your doctor. You may have a small bruise or needle site soreness afterward, but this usually fades quickly.
What the Results Mean
Results show your cefuroxime concentration in your blood plasma/serum. Low levels may mean the drug isn’t working well, while very high levels could indicate kidney issues or improper dosing. Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your treatment plan.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cefuroxime levels help adjust antibiotic therapy to prevent infections from becoming resistant or causing toxicity. Low levels may require a higher dose, while high levels may signal kidney dysfunction or need for dose adjustments. This test is critical for patients with impaired organ function or those receiving multiple medications.
Short name
Cefuroxime Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I expect this test?
What are common reasons for abnormal results?
Can I drink water before this test?
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