Serum Lactate (Lactate Dehydrogenase Activity)
This test measures the level of lactate in your blood, which is a byproduct of energy production when your body doesn’t have enough oxygen. High levels may indicate conditions like low blood oxygen, heart problems, or metabolic disorders.
["Lactate levels help doctors assess how well your body is handling energy and oxygen use."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97759-5
- Short code
- Mg+Phos+Lact Pnl SerPl
- Synonyms
- Mg+Phos+Lact Pnl SerPl
- Category
- electrolyte
- 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 order this test if you have symptoms like rapid breathing, confusion, or fatigue, or if you’re at risk for conditions like heart failure, stroke, or severe infections. It’s also used during surgeries or procedures where oxygen supply might be temporarily reduced.
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. Tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some can affect results.
How the Test Works
A small needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab where enzymes break down lactate to measure its concentration.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Higher than normal levels may signal poor oxygen delivery or metabolic issues, while lower levels might indicate overuse of glucose for energy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated lactate levels can signal conditions like sepsis, heart or lung disease, or severe dehydration. Low levels may occur in poorly controlled diabetes or during intense exercise. Always discuss results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Serum Lactate
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated lactate levels?
What does it mean if my lactate level is low?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
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