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Lysine concentration in hair (24-hour integrated)

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

This test measures the amount of lysine, an essential amino acid, found in your hair over a 24-hour period. Hair provides a long-term snapshot of your body’s amino acid levels, which can reflect overall protein metabolism.

Quick summary

["Hair lysine testing helps assess long-term protein balance and may be used in research or specialized clinical contexts."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47690-3
Short code
Lysine SFr Hair
Synonyms
Lysine SFr Hair
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 if they suspect conditions affecting protein metabolism, such as certain genetic disorders, malnutrition, or long-term dietary concerns. It can also be part of studies examining amino acid profiles in chronic conditions.

What Does the Test Involve?

A small sample of your hair is collected, typically from the scalp or another area. The sample is processed to measure lysine levels over time, often analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or a similar method to detect amino acid concentrations.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Hair samples are usually taken by a healthcare professional or sent to a lab in a sterile container. The lab then cleanses the hair to remove surface contaminants before analyzing it for lysine content.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are expressed as a concentration of lysine in the hair sample, though specific reference ranges vary by lab and context. Abnormal results may indicate imbalances in protein synthesis or breakdown.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Lysine in Hair (24h)

Frequently asked questions

What Does It Mean If My Results Are Abnormal?
Abnormally low or high lysine levels in hair could suggest underlying issues like protein deficiency, metabolic disorders, or certain genetic conditions. However, this test is not routinely used for general screening and may require additional testing for diagnosis.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
This test is rarely performed as a standard diagnostic tool and is typically reserved for research, specialized clinical studies, or when other tests suggest a need for amino acid profile evaluation. Your provider will determine if this is appropriate for your situation.
What Should I Do If I Have Questions About the Test?
If you’re concerned about your results or the reason for this test, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can clarify what the findings mean for your health and whether further testing is needed.
  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