Fluoroquinolone (e.g., ciprofloxacin) concentration in serum
This test measures the amount of a specific antibiotic (fluoroquinolone) in your blood serum. It helps doctors monitor how well your body is responding to treatment and whether the drug remains effective at the right levels.
["Your antibiotic levels are checked to ensure they’re working safely and effectively."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86567-5
- Short code
- FLUAV IgM Ser Ql IA
- Synonyms
- FLUAV IgM Ser Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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
Doctors may order this test if you’re taking fluoroquinolone antibiotics (like ciprofloxacin) for a bacterial infection. It helps track how your body processes the drug and ensures it stays within safe ranges to fight infection while minimizing side effects. This is especially important for long-term use or in cases where the infection is hard to treat.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood) is then tested using a sensitive lab method to measure the antibiotic’s concentration. The result helps your healthcare provider adjust your treatment plan if needed.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but let your doctor know if you’re on other medications or have conditions that might affect blood tests. Avoid eating or drinking for a short time before the blood draw if instructed.
Possible Results and Next Steps
Results show the antibiotic level in your blood. If it’s too low, your infection may not be fully treated. If it’s too high, you could experience side effects. Your doctor will discuss the findings and adjust your treatment accordingly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Monitoring fluoroquinolone levels is critical for infections resistant to other antibiotics or when the drug is used for extended periods. Low levels may mean the infection isn’t fully controlled, while high levels could indicate toxicity or drug resistance. This test helps balance effectiveness and safety in treatment.
Short name
Fluoroquinolone Level
Frequently asked questions
What does a fluoroquinolone level test measure?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Will this test affect my antibiotic treatment?
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