Gentamicin Serum Concentration (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of gentamicin, a medication used to treat serious bacterial infections, in your serum. It helps doctors monitor how much of the drug is in your blood to ensure it’s effective and safe.
["This test helps your healthcare provider adjust your antibiotic dose to prevent side effects or ineffective treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15106-8
- Short code
- Gentamicin Rand SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Gentamicin Rand SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 gentamicin to treat infections like sepsis, pneumonia, or urinary tract infections. It’s especially important for people with kidney problems, as gentamicin can affect kidney function. Your provider may also request it if you’re receiving gentamicin through an IV or injection.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood without blood cells) is then tested to measure the exact amount of gentamicin present using a specialized laboratory method.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small bruise or sore spot where the needle was inserted, but this usually fades quickly. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding issues, let your provider know before the test.
Possible Results and Their Meaning
Results are typically reported in micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL). Too much gentamicin can harm your kidneys or nerves, while too little may not treat your infection effectively. Your provider will interpret the results in relation to your specific medical needs and adjust your treatment accordingly.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Gentamicin Level
Frequently asked questions
When might I need this test?
What does a high or low gentamicin level mean?
Do I need to do anything special after the test?
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