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Multianalyte ketone body measurement profile (serum/plasma)

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

This test measures levels of ketone bodies—chemicals produced when your body breaks down fat for energy, especially during fasting or illness.

Quick summary

["Ketones help assess metabolic status and potential risks of dangerous ketone buildup."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105262-0
Short code
Keto dis multi anl Bld/T
Synonyms
Keto dis multi anl Bld/T
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you’re experiencing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used in monitoring conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, starvation, or metabolic disorders where fat breakdown is abnormal.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed unless instructed. You may fast for 8–12 hours before the test if fasting levels are being measured, but always follow your provider’s specific instructions.

What the Test Involves

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where multiple ketone levels are measured simultaneously using advanced chemical techniques.

What the Results Mean

Results show concentrations of key ketone bodies (e.g., beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, acetone). High levels may indicate ketosis, which can be beneficial for some conditions but dangerous in others (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes). Low or absent levels suggest your body isn’t breaking down fat effectively.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated ketone levels can signal metabolic stress, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening condition), prolonged fasting, or ketogenic diets. Low levels may indicate inadequate fat metabolism or underlying nutritional deficiencies. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider to determine the next steps.

Short name

Ketone profile

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated ketone levels in this test?
Elevated ketone levels can result from fasting, low-carbohydrate diets, severe illness, or uncontrolled diabetes. They may also appear during exercise or in response to certain medications.
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they’re ready to review them.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Follow your provider’s instructions, but generally, avoid food for 8–12 hours if fasting levels are being measured. Water is usually allowed unless specified otherwise.
  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