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Serum/plasma lactate concentration (quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of lactate, a byproduct of energy production in your body, in your blood. It helps assess how well your body is handling oxygen and energy use, especially in conditions like low oxygen levels or metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

["Lactate levels can signal how efficiently your body is meeting its energy needs."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104074-0
Short code
Gas & Lactate pnl BldA
Synonyms
Gas & Lactate pnl BldA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Critical range
— – 4 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like rapid breathing, confusion, or fatigue, which can indicate low oxygen levels (hypoxia) or metabolic issues. It’s also used in monitoring conditions like heart failure, shock, or severe infections where lactate buildup is common.

When Might You Need This Test?

Common scenarios include before or after surgery, during critical illnesses like sepsis or heart attacks, or if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, or unusual tiredness. Doctors may also check it in people with diabetes or kidney disease.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure lactate levels using a specialized method, often automated and quick.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to a general range for healthy adults, but exact values can vary by lab and method. High lactate levels may suggest poor oxygen delivery or metabolic stress, while very low levels might indicate unusual energy metabolism or lab errors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lactate Level

Frequently asked questions

What could high lactate levels mean?
Elevated lactate can signal conditions like low blood oxygen (hypoxia), heart or lung problems, severe infections, or metabolic disorders. It’s a key marker in diagnosing and managing critical illnesses like sepsis or heart failure.
What could low lactate levels mean?
Low lactate might occur in rare cases of abnormal energy metabolism, but it’s less common. It could also reflect lab processing errors or specific medical states like certain genetic disorders.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often this test is needed based on your health condition, treatment plan, or symptoms. Follow their guidance—do not schedule it without their approval.
  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