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Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB) Mass Concentration in Serum/Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of beta-hydroxybutyrate, a ketone body produced when your body breaks down fat for energy. It’s often checked in people with diabetes, metabolic disorders, or those following low-carb diets.

Quick summary

["Ketone monitoring helps track metabolic health and energy sources during fasting or dietary changes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33058-9
Short code
Ketones SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Ketones SerPl-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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to monitor ketone levels in people with diabetes (especially type 1) to prevent dangerous blood sugar swings or ketosis. It’s also used in conditions like starvation, severe illness, or during low-carb or ketogenic diets to assess fat metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually from your arm) at a lab or clinic. If you’re fasting, follow your provider’s instructions to avoid misleading results.

What the Results Mean

Ketone levels vary based on diet, activity, and health. High levels may indicate ketosis (common in fasting or ketogenic diets), while very low levels could signal poor fat metabolism or medical needs. Your provider will interpret results in context with your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or manage conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious complication of diabetes), metabolic disorders, or evaluate responses to dietary changes (e.g., ketogenic diets). It’s also used in research or clinical settings to study energy metabolism.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Beta-Hydroxybutyrate (BHB) Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated ketone levels?
Elevated BHB levels often occur during fasting, low-carb diets, or diabetes-related ketosis. Rarely, they may signal underlying metabolic disorders or severe illness (e.g., starvation, uncontrolled diabetes). Always discuss symptoms with your provider.
Can I lower my ketone levels at home?
Yes, increasing healthy carbs (like fruits/vegetables) or eating regular meals can help lower ketones. Avoid extreme fasting without medical supervision. If you’re on a ketogenic diet, consult your provider to adjust intake safely.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Not always. Some providers recommend fasting (e.g., 8+ hours) to detect ketones accurately, but others may not. Follow your lab’s or provider’s instructions to avoid misleading results.
  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