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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 sugar for energy, in your blood serum.

Quick summary

["Lactate levels help assess how well your body is using oxygen and managing energy production, especially in emergencies or chronic conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79521-1
Short code
Lactyl lactate SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Lactyl lactate SerPl-sCnc
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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting how your body uses oxygen, such as low blood oxygen (hypoxia), heart or lung problems, or metabolic disorders. It’s also used during surgeries or critical care to monitor energy metabolism in real time.

When Might You Need This Test?

You might need this test if you’re experiencing symptoms like rapid breathing, confusion, or unusual fatigue, or if you’re undergoing procedures requiring close monitoring of your body’s energy processes.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort afterward.

What Happens During the Test?

The blood sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure lactate concentration using a specialized method, such as enzymatic testing. Results are typically available within hours.

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 heart or lung problems, severe infections, dehydration, or physical exertion that overwhelms your body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently. It can also appear during certain medications or medical procedures.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the final results.
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
Yes, factors like exercise, hydration, and certain medications can influence lactate levels. Avoid intense physical activity or alcohol before the test if instructed by your provider to ensure 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