Skip to content

Lactate (Serum or Plasma)

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

This test measures the amount of lactate, a byproduct of energy production in your body, typically found in blood serum or plasma.

Quick summary

["Lactate levels help assess how well your body is using oxygen and can indicate potential issues with circulation or metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10904-1
Short code
LACV IgG Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
LACV IgG Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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 Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order a lactate test to check for conditions like low blood oxygen (hypoxia), heart or lung problems, severe infections, or metabolic disorders. It’s also used during surgery or critical care to monitor how well your body is responding to treatment.

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. Your doctor will explain any specific instructions for your situation.

What Happens During the Test?

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

What Are the Possible Results?

Lactate levels can vary based on health, activity level, and other factors. High levels may suggest poor oxygen delivery to tissues, while very low levels could indicate unusual metabolic processes.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Serum/Lactate

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Tell Your Doctor?
Elevated lactate levels can signal conditions like shock, heart failure, or severe infections. Low levels might be seen in rare metabolic disorders or during certain medications. Your doctor will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide treatment.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. If you have a chronic illness or are undergoing treatment, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. For routine checks, it’s usually not a standard test unless symptoms suggest it.
Can I Avoid This Test?
If you have no symptoms or a stable condition, your doctor may not routinely order this test. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms like dizziness, rapid breathing, or unusual fatigue, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider to rule out underlying issues.
  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