Total Antioxidant Capacity of Serum
This test measures how effectively your blood serum protects against oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to aging or disease.
["Your blood serum’s ability to neutralize harmful free radicals is assessed here."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82714-7
- Short code
- CTA UE ves-R
- Synonyms
- CTA UE ves-R
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct-angio
- CPT
- 85651
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
Total antioxidant capacity reflects the combined activity of various antioxidants in your blood, including vitamins (like vitamin C and E), enzymes, and other compounds that help prevent oxidative damage. This test does not identify specific antioxidants but provides an overall measure of your body’s antioxidant defense system.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test to evaluate your risk of chronic diseases linked to oxidative stress, such as heart disease, diabetes, or certain cancers. It can also help monitor conditions where antioxidant levels might be affected, like chronic inflammation or metabolic disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum portion is then analyzed in a lab to determine its antioxidant capacity using a standardized method.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are not provided with specific reference ranges, as they vary by lab and test method. Instead, they help compare your antioxidant levels to what might be expected in a healthy individual or to track changes over time.
Reference range
Adult males: 0-15 mm/hr; Females: 0-20 mm/hrN/A
No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test provides insight into your body’s ability to combat oxidative damage, which is critical for preventing cellular harm. Low levels may indicate increased vulnerability to chronic diseases, while higher levels could suggest stronger defenses against oxidative stress.
Short name
Serum Antioxidant Capacity
Frequently asked questions
What causes oxidative stress that might affect antioxidant levels?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or supplements affect antioxidant 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