Glutamate, Substance Concentration, Amniotic Fluid
This test measures the concentration of glutamate, an amino acid, in a sample of amniotic fluid. It is a specialized laboratory measurement that may be used in research or specialized clinical evaluation of fetal and maternal health.
["The test quantifies glutamate levels in amniotic fluid, a measurement used in specialized assessment rather than routine screening."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27104-9
- Short code
- Glutamate Amn-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Glutamate Amn-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Being Measured
Glutamate is an amino acid that serves as a building block for proteins and as a signaling molecule in the nervous system. This test determines how much glutamate is present in amniotic fluid, the fluid that surrounds a developing fetus.
How the Sample Is Collected
Amniotic fluid is obtained through a procedure called amniocentesis, in which a doctor uses a thin needle guided by ultrasound to withdraw a small sample of fluid from the womb. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as a concentration of glutamate in the fluid. Because normal values can vary by laboratory, method, and gestational age, results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of the individual case.
Why the Test May Be Ordered
This measurement is not part of routine prenatal testing. It may be used in specialized or research settings to study amino acid metabolism and fetal development. Your care team can explain whether and why this test is appropriate for your situation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Glutamate is a key amino acid involved in protein synthesis and neurotransmission. Measuring its concentration in amniotic fluid can provide information about amino acid handling in the fetal-maternal environment, but such testing is specialized and its clinical role is generally limited to research or specific diagnostic evaluations. Interpretation requires correlation with gestational age, other laboratory findings, and the overall clinical picture.
Short name
Amniotic Fluid Glutamate
Frequently asked questions
Is this a routine prenatal test?
Does the test require amniocentesis?
Can I interpret the result on my own?
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