Lysine concentration in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of lysine, an essential amino acid, in your blood. Lysine helps with protein synthesis, immune function, and calcium absorption.
["Lysine levels can be checked if you have symptoms of amino acid imbalances or certain medical conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47693-7
- Short code
- Lysine SFr SerPl
- Synonyms
- Lysine SFr SerPl
- 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, skin rashes, or unusual fatigue. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for metabolic disorders or nutritional deficiencies, especially in cases involving protein metabolism or kidney function.
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. Wear loose clothing and plan to rest for a short time afterward, as you might feel lightheaded.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results will show the concentration of lysine in your blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal levels may suggest conditions like amino acid disorders, kidney disease, or malnutrition. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lysine levels can be important in diagnosing or monitoring certain metabolic conditions, such as lysosomal storage disorders or aminoacidopathies. Low levels may indicate malnutrition or malabsorption, while elevated levels could be linked to kidney issues or certain genetic disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.
Short name
Lysine Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes low or high lysine levels?
Can lifestyle changes affect lysine levels?
Is this test often done as part of a routine checkup?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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