Free Inositol in Serum (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of free inositol, a naturally occurring alcohol found in cells, specifically in your blood serum. It may be used to assess metabolic or neurological conditions.
["Free inositol levels can help evaluate certain metabolic or neurological health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2480-2
- Short code
- Inositol Free Ser-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Inositol Free Ser-mCnc
- 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 you have symptoms or conditions linked to abnormal inositol metabolism, such as neurological disorders, metabolic syndromes, or certain genetic disorders. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like epilepsy, mitochondrial disorders, or other metabolic imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, by a healthcare professional. The blood is then processed to separate serum, which is analyzed for free inositol levels using a specialized laboratory technique.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormal levels may suggest underlying metabolic or neurological conditions that require further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Free Inositol Serum
Frequently asked questions
What does a free inositol test measure?
How is the test performed?
Can fasting affect this 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