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Lactate, Plasma 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 plasma. It helps assess how well your body is handling oxygen and energy use, especially in conditions like heart failure, shock, or severe illness.

Quick summary

["Lactate levels can indicate poor oxygen supply or metabolic stress—quickly check with your doctor if symptoms arise."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2522-1
Short code
Lactate Plr-sCnc
Synonyms
Lactate Plr-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Critical range
— – 4 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to evaluate conditions affecting oxygen delivery (e.g., heart or lung problems), monitor severe infections, or check for metabolic disorders. It’s often used in critical care settings to guide treatment decisions.

What to Expect

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The plasma portion is analyzed for lactate levels. Results are typically available within a few hours to a day, depending on lab processes.

Common Conditions Monitored

High lactate levels may signal low oxygen availability (hypoxia), shock, or severe illness like sepsis. Low levels might occur in healthy individuals or in certain metabolic states, but this isn’t always straightforward.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual needs vary. Elevated levels often prompt further testing or adjustments to treatment (e.g., oxygen therapy, fluids). Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Plasma Lactate Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated lactate levels?
Elevated lactate can result from insufficient oxygen reaching tissues (e.g., heart failure, severe anemia), rapid muscle activity (e.g., exercise), or metabolic disorders. It’s also a marker for conditions like lactic acidosis, which requires urgent medical attention.
What causes low lactate levels?
Low lactate can occur in healthy individuals with normal oxygen use, but it may also reflect conditions like extreme dehydration, certain medications, or metabolic disorders. It’s less commonly a standalone concern unless paired with other symptoms.
How often is this test repeated?
Your doctor may repeat this test if you’re critically ill, recovering from surgery, or experiencing ongoing symptoms like dizziness, rapid breathing, or fatigue. Frequency depends on your condition and treatment plan.
  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