Skip to content

Serum Lactate Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of lactate, a substance produced when your body breaks down carbohydrates for energy, in your blood.

Quick summary

["Lactate helps assess how well your body is using oxygen and can signal potential health issues like low oxygen levels or metabolic problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30242-2
Short code
Lactate BldA-mCnc
Synonyms
Lactate BldA-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 Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to check for conditions like low blood oxygen (hypoxia), severe infections, heart or lung problems, or metabolic disorders. It’s also used in emergencies, such as heart attacks or severe bleeding, to monitor how well your body is responding to treatment.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. Tell your healthcare provider about any medications or conditions that could affect results.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal levels may indicate conditions like shock, severe infections, or poor circulation. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest conditions like diabetes or liver disease, but results depend on your overall health and medical history.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used in critical care settings to track how well your body is handling stress, such as during surgery, heart attacks, or severe illness. It can help guide treatment decisions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Lactate levels are critical in identifying and managing conditions where oxygen delivery to tissues is impaired, such as sepsis, cardiac arrest, or acute respiratory failure. Elevated levels often appear early in severe illness and can signal the need for urgent medical attention.

Short name

Lactate Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes lactate levels to be tested?
Lactate testing is typically done when doctors suspect conditions like low blood oxygen, severe infections, heart or lung problems, or metabolic disturbances. It may also be part of routine monitoring in hospitalized patients.
How is the blood drawn for this test?
A healthcare professional will clean the area with an antiseptic, insert a small needle into your arm, and collect a blood sample into a tube. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process usually takes just a few minutes.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test, but let your doctor know if you’re taking any medications or have conditions that might affect results, such as diabetes or liver disease.
  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