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Serum or Plasma Lactate Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of lactate, a byproduct of energy production in your body, in your blood.

Quick summary

["Lactate helps your body produce energy quickly when oxygen is limited, but high levels may signal serious health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57361-8
Short code
Lactate 3M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Lactate 3M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Critical range
— – 4 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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like low blood oxygen (hypoxia), heart or lung problems, infections, or metabolic disorders. It can also help monitor treatment for conditions like shock, sepsis, or heart failure.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm, and a blood sample will be drawn. If you’re receiving oxygen or other treatments, your doctor will ensure it’s stable before testing.

What the Results Mean

Lactate levels can vary based on activity, health, and medical conditions. High levels may indicate poor blood flow, infections, or other emergencies. Your doctor will discuss results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to assess conditions like severe infections (sepsis), heart attacks, or low blood pressure (hypotension). It can also help track how well you’re responding to treatment for these or other critical illnesses.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lactate Level

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor ask for this test?
Your doctor may order it if you have symptoms like rapid breathing, confusion, or low blood pressure, or if you’re receiving treatments that could affect oxygen flow to your body.
What does a ‘normal’ result mean?
There’s no single ‘normal’ range for everyone. Results depend on factors like your activity level, health, and medical history. Your doctor will interpret it based on your specific situation.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can usually eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Some tests may require fasting, but this test does not.
  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