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Serum Lactate Concentration (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Method)

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 serum using advanced liquid chromatography.

Quick summary

["Lactate helps assess how well your body is using oxygen and managing energy during stress or illness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27949-7
Short code
Lactate 4h p chal Bld-mCnc
Synonyms
Lactate 4h p chal Bld-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Critical range
— – 4 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may request this test if you have symptoms like rapid breathing, confusion, or fatigue, especially after physical activity, illness, or during surgery. It can also help monitor conditions like heart failure, shock, or metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re fasting, follow your provider’s instructions to ensure accurate results.

What the Results Mean

Lactate levels can vary based on activity, diet, and health status. High levels may suggest poor oxygen delivery to tissues, while low levels might indicate overuse of glucose for energy.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to evaluate conditions like sepsis, heart attack, or severe infections where lactate buildup can indicate poor blood flow or organ dysfunction.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Lactate Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated lactate levels?
Elevated lactate can result from conditions that reduce oxygen supply (e.g., heart problems, low blood pressure), intense exercise, or certain metabolic disorders. Your provider will consider your overall health and symptoms when interpreting results.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your medical condition. If you have chronic issues (e.g., heart disease, diabetes), your provider may order it regularly. For acute situations, it may be done more often during monitoring.
Can lifestyle changes affect lactate levels?
Yes—exercise intensity, hydration, and diet can influence lactate. Avoiding strenuous activity before testing and staying well-hydrated may help provide more accurate 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