Skip to content

Lactate (Serum or Plasma) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of lactate in your blood, a substance produced when your body breaks down carbohydrates for energy. It can help assess how well your body is using oxygen and managing energy.

Quick summary

["Lactate levels can signal poor oxygen delivery or metabolic issues, often seen in emergencies like heart attacks or infections."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111325-7
Short code
LACV IgM Msmt Ser
Synonyms
LACV IgM 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 this test to check for conditions affecting oxygen use, such as heart problems, low blood flow, or severe infections. It’s also used in critical care settings to monitor patients with conditions like shock or severe illness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may fast for 2–4 hours before the blood draw if instructed. Bring your lab results or recent health updates to share with your doctor.

How the Test Works

A small needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure lactate levels using a specialized test.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results may be compared to your body’s normal range for lactate, though exact values can vary by lab. High levels might indicate poor oxygen delivery, while low levels could signal metabolic issues or errors in interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum/Lactate

Frequently asked questions

What causes high lactate levels?
High lactate can result from conditions like heart disease, infections, or low blood oxygen (hypoxia). It may also appear after intense exercise or certain medications.
What if my lactate level is low?
Low lactate could mean your body is efficiently using oxygen, but it may also signal rare metabolic issues or errors in testing. Your doctor will review your full health picture.
How often should I get this test?
Only your healthcare provider will determine how often you need this test based on your health needs, such as monitoring chronic conditions or recovery from surgery.
  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