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Plasma or Serum Lactate Concentration (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of lactate, a substance produced when your body breaks down carbohydrates for energy, in your blood.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50512-3
Short code
LH sp4 SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
LH sp4 SerPl-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83002
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

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like low blood oxygen (hypoxia), severe infections, heart or lung problems, or during surgery to monitor your body’s response to stress or illness. It can also help evaluate metabolic disorders or monitor patients with conditions like shock or sepsis.

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 test if it involves a blood draw. Tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some can affect results.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Lactate levels can vary based on your health, activity level, and other factors. High levels may indicate poor oxygen supply to tissues, while very low levels might suggest metabolic issues or certain medications. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lactate Level

Frequently asked questions

What might cause elevated lactate levels?
Elevated lactate levels can occur due to conditions like severe infections, heart or lung disease, dehydration, or during intense physical activity. It can also be seen in metabolic disorders or during certain medications. High levels are often a sign that your body isn’t getting enough oxygen to tissues, which can be dangerous if untreated.
What might cause low lactate levels?
Low lactate levels can sometimes occur with certain medications, metabolic disorders, or in people with well-controlled diabetes. It may also be seen in rare cases of liver or kidney problems that affect how lactate is processed in the body. Your doctor will consider your medical history and other test results to understand the cause.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your health condition and why it was ordered. If you have a chronic condition like heart disease or diabetes, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. If you’re undergoing treatment for a specific issue, follow your doctor’s instructions for follow-up testing.
  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