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Lactic Acid Concentration in Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of lactic acid in your blood, which can help identify conditions affecting how your body uses oxygen or processes sugar.

Quick summary

["Lactic acid levels may signal metabolic issues or poor circulation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2525-4
Short code
Lactate Snv-sCnc
Synonyms
Lactate Snv-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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like low oxygen levels in tissues, liver disease, heart problems, or metabolic disorders. It’s also used in monitoring patients with severe infections, shock, or during certain surgeries.

When Might You Need This Test?

You might need this test if you have symptoms like rapid breathing, shortness of breath, fatigue, or muscle pain. It’s also common in critical care settings or before and after procedures that could affect blood flow.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab to measure lactic acid levels using a specialized test method.

What Do Results Mean?

High levels may indicate conditions like sepsis, heart failure, or severe dehydration. Low levels are less common but could relate to rare metabolic issues. Your provider will discuss results with you based on your health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Lactic acid is a byproduct of energy production when oxygen is limited. Elevated levels often signal underlying issues like poor circulation, organ dysfunction, or metabolic stress.

Short name

Lactic Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated lactic acid?
Elevated lactic acid can result from conditions like severe infections, heart or lung problems, dehydration, or certain medications. It may also appear during intense exercise or in people with liver or kidney issues.
What if my results are abnormal?
If your results are abnormal, your provider will review them with you and may recommend further tests or treatments to address the cause, such as adjusting medications or improving hydration.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health needs. Your provider will determine how often to check based on your symptoms, medical history, or ongoing 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