Skip to content

Lactic Acid (Serum or Plasma) by Titration Method

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 produces energy.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24210-7
Short code
LACV Ab sp2 Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
LACV Ab sp2 Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like low oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxia), certain metabolic disorders, or complications from medications, infections, or injuries. It can also help assess how well your body is handling exercise or other activities that increase energy demands.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the draw if your doctor specifies. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay for about 15 minutes while a healthcare provider collects your blood sample from a vein in your arm.

During the Test

A healthcare professional will clean the area with an antiseptic, insert a small needle into your vein, and collect a blood sample. You may feel a brief pinch or sting, but the procedure usually takes less than a minute. You’ll be able to resume normal activities afterward.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. Elevated levels may suggest conditions like severe dehydration, heart or lung problems, or certain infections. Lower-than-normal levels might indicate metabolic disorders or overuse of certain medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lactic Acid Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes high lactic acid levels?
High lactic acid levels can result from conditions that disrupt normal oxygen delivery to tissues, such as heart or lung disease, severe infections, or conditions like sepsis. Certain medications, excessive alcohol use, or intense physical activity can also raise levels. Additionally, metabolic disorders or kidney problems may play a role.
What causes low lactic acid levels?
Low lactic acid levels are less common but may occur with certain metabolic disorders, such as mitochondrial diseases or deficiencies in enzymes involved in energy production. Rarely, it can be associated with overproduction of certain hormones or medications that affect metabolism.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status, symptoms, and ongoing treatment. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have chronic conditions like heart disease, kidney problems, or metabolic disorders. Follow-up tests are usually scheduled as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  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