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Lactate (Serum) – Quantitative Measurement

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. It helps assess how well your body is using oxygen and can indicate conditions like low oxygen levels or metabolic issues.

Quick summary

["Lactate levels can signal how efficiently your body is meeting its energy needs, especially during stress or illness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111326-5
Short code
LACV IgG Msmt Ser
Synonyms
LACV IgG Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 a serum lactate test to evaluate conditions affecting oxygen use, such as shock, heart or lung problems, or severe infections. It’s also used in emergency settings to monitor patients with suspected low blood oxygen or metabolic disturbances.

When Might You Need This Test?

You might need this test if you’re experiencing symptoms like confusion, rapid breathing, or low blood pressure—common signs of poor oxygen delivery. It’s often done in urgent care or hospital settings for quick assessment.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may need to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your provider specifies it. Bring any medications or medical devices you’re using to discuss with your healthcare team.

What Happens During the Test?

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

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Lactate

Frequently asked questions

What Does a High or Low Lactate Level Mean?
A high lactate level can signal poor oxygen delivery to tissues, which may require treatment for conditions like sepsis, heart problems, or respiratory failure. A low level might be normal in some cases but could indicate rare metabolic issues—your provider will guide next steps based on your results.
How Often Is This Test Done?
This test is typically done once or occasionally during monitoring for acute conditions. Some patients with chronic illnesses (like heart or lung disease) may have follow-up tests as needed to track progress.
Can I Eat or Drink Before the Test?
Follow your provider’s instructions—some tests require fasting, while others allow light fluids. Always confirm with them before the appointment to avoid delays or inaccurate 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