Acetoacetate in Serum/Plasma (Qualitative or Quantitative)
This test measures the presence of acetoacetate, a chemical compound produced when the body breaks down fat for energy, often seen in conditions like diabetes or starvation.
["Detecting ketones helps identify metabolic issues or uncontrolled blood sugar levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110238-3
- Short code
- Ketones Msmt SerPl
- Synonyms
- Ketones Msmt SerPl
- 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 Matters
Ketones are a byproduct of fat metabolism. High levels can indicate the body is using fat instead of glucose for fuel, which may happen in conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, prolonged fasting, or low-carb diets. Your doctor may order this test to monitor your health, especially if you have diabetes or eat very little food.
When Might You Need This Test?
You might need this test if you have symptoms like nausea, vomiting, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight loss. It could also be part of routine monitoring if you have diabetes, kidney disease, or are following a very low-carb diet. Some people with eating disorders or metabolic conditions may also have this test.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if it involves drawing blood. If you’re taking medications that affect blood sugar or fat metabolism, let your healthcare provider know.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab to analyze for acetoacetate levels. The test can be qualitative (just checking for presence) or quantitative (measuring exact amounts).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Ketones in Blood
Frequently asked questions
What are ketones, and why do they matter?
Elevated ketone levels can be caused by conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, prolonged fasting, low-carb or ketogenic diets, severe illness, or excessive exercise. If you notice symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, or fatigue, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor.
The frequency of this test depends on your health condition and medical history. If you have diabetes, your doctor may recommend regular testing, especially if you’re managing your blood sugar with diet or insulin. Ask your healthcare provider how often you should get 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