Ethanolamine concentration in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of ethanolamine, a naturally occurring chemical in your blood, which plays a role in cell membrane function and signaling processes.
["Ethanolamine levels may help assess metabolic or biochemical imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13613-5
- Short code
- Ethanolamine CSF-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Ethanolamine CSF-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to metabolic disorders, such as fatty acid metabolism issues, or if you’re being evaluated for certain genetic disorders. It may also be part of broader screening for conditions affecting cell membrane integrity or fluid balance.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may fast for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed, but always follow your provider’s specific instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure usually takes just a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
What Are Possible Results?
Results are presented as a mass concentration (measured in micromoles per liter, µmol/L). While reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal results may indicate metabolic or biochemical disturbances that require further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated ethanolamine levels might suggest conditions like fatty acid oxidation disorders, certain genetic metabolic syndromes, or fluid imbalances. Low levels could be associated with rare metabolic deficiencies or other systemic issues. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Ethanolamine Level
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal ethanolamine level mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or medications affect ethanolamine 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