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Serum lactate (mass 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 serum.

Quick summary

["Lactate helps assess how well your body is using oxygen for energy and can signal potential health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14118-4
Short code
Lactate SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Lactate 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?

Doctors may order a lactate test to check for conditions like low blood oxygen (hypoxia), severe infections, heart problems, or metabolic disorders. It can also help monitor patients during surgery or in critical care settings.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your doctor specifies it. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Lactate levels can vary based on activity level, diet, and health status. High levels may indicate poor oxygen delivery to tissues, while very low levels could suggest certain metabolic or breathing issues. Your doctor will discuss results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lactate Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated lactate levels?
Elevated lactate can result from conditions like severe infections, heart or lung problems, dehydration, or intense physical activity. It may also appear in people with certain metabolic disorders or those taking specific medications.
What causes low lactate levels?
Low lactate levels can occur in people with certain metabolic disorders, overuse of insulin or other medications, or in rare cases of severe dehydration. It’s also sometimes seen in healthy individuals during rest.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition, symptoms, or treatment plan. Follow-up may be needed if you have ongoing issues like heart disease, infections, or metabolic disorders.
  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