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Glutamine in Serum/Plasma (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of glutamine, a key amino acid in your blood, which helps your body produce energy and maintain protein balance.

Quick summary

["Glutamine supports metabolism and immune function; levels may indicate nutritional status or metabolic health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2370-5
Short code
Glutamine CSF-mCnc
Synonyms
Glutamine 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

What Is Glutamine Used For?

Glutamine plays a role in energy production, gut health, and immune response. It’s also involved in detoxifying ammonia in the liver. Abnormal levels might suggest conditions like malnutrition, infections, or metabolic disorders.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, frequent infections, or digestive issues. It’s also used in monitoring patients with severe illness, trauma, or certain metabolic conditions.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure glutamine concentration using a specialized biochemical method.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are expressed as a mass concentration (typically in micromoles per liter, µmol/L). Your doctor will compare these results to your individual baseline and clinical picture to interpret them.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Glutamine Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my test results?
Test results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they’re ready for review.
What does a low glutamine level mean?
Low glutamine may signal malnutrition, severe infections, or conditions like acute kidney injury or liver disease. Your doctor will consider your overall health and symptoms to determine next steps.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You may eat and drink normally before this test unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing, as it may affect results.
  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