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Base Excess, Standard, Whole Blood, Substance Concentration (Deprecated)

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

This test measures standard base excess, a calculated value that reflects the metabolic acid-base balance of the blood. The LOINC code for this concept has been deprecated, so it is listed for historical or reference purposes.

Quick summary

["Standard base excess is a calculated indicator of metabolic acid-base status in whole blood, and this specific test code is now deprecated."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104728-1
Short code
Deprecated Base excess std BldV-sCnc
Synonyms
Deprecated Base excess std BldV-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Base Excess Represents

Base excess is a calculated number that describes how much acid or base would be needed to return a blood sample to a normal acid-base balance under standardized conditions. A positive value suggests a relative excess of base, while a negative value suggests a relative excess of acid. It is used to help classify acid-base disturbances.

Why "Standard" Matters

The standard version of base excess adjusts the result for typical levels of carbon dioxide, which helps separate metabolic (non-lung) contributors from respiratory (lung-related) contributors. This adjustment makes it easier to interpret changes that come from metabolism rather than from breathing.

Specimen and Measurement

This concept refers to a substance concentration measured in whole blood. Whole blood is often used because acid-base values are frequently assessed on blood gas specimens. The result is a calculated value derived from measured pH and related parameters.

Interpretation Notes and Deprecation

This LOINC code has been marked deprecated, meaning it is no longer the preferred code for this measurement and is retained for mapping or historical records. If you are reviewing an old report, discuss the meaning of any specific result with a qualified healthcare professional, since interpretation depends on the full clinical picture.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What does a base excess result tell me?
Base excess helps show whether an acid-base imbalance is driven mainly by metabolic factors. A positive value generally points toward a relative base excess, and a negative value toward a relative acid excess, but the meaning depends on your full test results and clinical situation. Ask your healthcare professional to interpret it for you.
Why is this test code marked deprecated?
Deprecated means the coding organization no longer recommends this code as the current way to represent the test. It may still appear in older records or systems that have not updated their coding. The underlying measurement concept may be represented by a different code today.
Can I interpret my own base excess without the other results?
No. Base excess is calculated and is meant to be interpreted alongside measured values such as pH, carbon dioxide, and bicarbonate, along with your symptoms and history. Only a qualified healthcare professional can put the result into context and determine what it means for your care.
  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