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Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration (e.g., for a specific biomarker)

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

This test measures the amount of a particular substance in your blood, either serum or plasma. It helps doctors assess health conditions, monitor treatments, or check for abnormalities.

Quick summary

["This test detects levels of a specific substance that may indicate health risks or responses to treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55880-9
Short code
HVA Ser-sCnc
Synonyms
HVA Ser-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if they suspect a condition affecting your blood chemistry, such as infections, metabolic disorders, or exposure to certain substances. It could also be used to monitor chronic diseases or evaluate the effectiveness of treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if the test involves blood drawn from a vein. If you’re taking certain medications, let your provider know beforehand.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, which is analyzed for the specific substance.

What the Results Mean

Results will be compared to a reference range provided by your lab. High or low levels may signal underlying health issues, but interpretation depends on clinical context and other test results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

None

Frequently asked questions

What does a ‘substance concentration’ test measure?
This test measures the amount of a specific substance (like a protein, hormone, or toxin) in your blood, either in serum or plasma. The exact substance depends on the clinical need, such as detecting infections, monitoring toxins, or evaluating metabolic functions.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results typically arrive within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow. Follow-up instructions will be provided by your provider.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Most of the time, no special diet is required. However, if your test involves fasting (e.g., for glucose or lipid panels), your provider will specify instructions. Always check with them before the test.
  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