Meropenem, Induced Plasma/Serum, Qualitative Liquid Chromatography
This test checks whether meropenem, a carbapenem antibiotic, can be detected in a specially prepared plasma or serum sample. It is a qualitative (detected or not detected) measurement rather than a precise drug level.
["The test tells your care team whether meropenem is present in the prepared sample, not an exact concentration."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73288-3
- Short code
- Meropenem ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Meropenem ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- 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
What This Test Measures
Meropenem is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections. This assay looks for the presence of meropenem in plasma or serum after it has been prepared (induced) for analysis. Results are reported qualitatively—meaning detected or not detected—rather than as a specific number.
How the Sample Is Prepared
The word "induced" signals that the specimen is processed in a particular way before testing. Your laboratory handles this preparation; your only job is to provide the sample as instructed. Because preparation steps can vary between laboratories, the exact procedure is best confirmed with the performing lab.
The Analytical Method
The test uses liquid chromatography, a technique that separates substances in a sample so a specific compound like meropenem can be identified. "Liquid chromatography" alone does not specify whether detection is by ultraviolet light, mass spectrometry, or another detector; your laboratory can confirm the exact method used.
What Results Mean
A "detected" result indicates meropenem is present in the sample, while "not detected" indicates it was not found. Because this is a qualitative test, it does not by itself confirm whether your dose is adequate. Your clinician interprets results alongside timing of the dose, your kidney function, and your overall clinical picture.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Meropenem is often used for severe or resistant infections where ensuring the drug is present can matter. Qualitative detection supports clinical decision-making but does not replace therapeutic drug monitoring, which measures actual concentrations. Interpretation should always involve your treating clinician and, where available, the laboratory performing the assay.
Short name
Meropenem Level (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Does this test tell me my exact meropenem level?
Why does the test say "induced" plasma or serum?
Can I interpret a "detected" result on my own?
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