Kanamycin Concentration in Body Fluids (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic kanamycin in your body fluids, such as blood or urine. It helps doctors monitor how your body is responding to this medication.
["Kanamycin levels help ensure the drug is working safely and effectively."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88002-1
- Short code
- Kanamycin Islt Slgr Mcbct AB 2.5
- Synonyms
- Kanamycin Islt Slgr Mcbct AB 2.5
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- method-for-slow-growing-mycobacteria-antibiotic-concentration-at-ug-ml
- CPT
- 86038
- 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
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re receiving kanamycin treatment, particularly for serious infections like certain types of meningitis or severe bacterial infections. It helps track how much of the drug is in your system to prevent toxicity while ensuring it’s effective against your infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw (from a vein) or provide a urine sample, depending on the test type. If you’re on other medications, let your doctor know to avoid potential interactions.
What the Results Mean
Results are used to adjust your medication dose. High levels may indicate the drug isn’t being processed well by your body, while low levels could mean the infection isn’t fully responding. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and treatment plan.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Abnormally high kanamycin levels might suggest kidney problems or improper dosing. Low levels could mean the infection isn’t sensitive to kanamycin or you’re not taking the full prescribed dose.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Kanamycin is a powerful antibiotic used for serious infections, but it can cause side effects like kidney damage or hearing loss if levels are too high. Regular monitoring helps balance effectiveness and safety.
Short name
Kanamycin Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my kanamycin test be done more frequently?
What should I do if I notice hearing changes while on kanamycin?
Can I drink alcohol before or after 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