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Serum or plasma mass concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) or related lipid peroxidation products

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

This test measures levels of compounds produced when fats in your body break down due to oxidative stress, which can indicate how well your cells are protected against damage.

Quick summary

["High levels may signal increased oxidative damage in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36079-2
Short code
MRA LE vv
Synonyms
MRA LE vv
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr-angio
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 Is This Test Measuring?

Malondialdehyde (MDA) and similar compounds form when unstable free radicals damage cell membranes, particularly in fats. This test detects these breakdown products in your blood, which can reflect overall oxidative stress levels in your tissues.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test to assess oxidative damage in conditions like chronic inflammation, certain cancers, or after exposure to toxins or medications that generate free radicals.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn, and the lab analyzes it for MDA-related compounds using a method like enzymatic or spectrophotometric techniques to measure their concentration.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not typically compared to standard ranges because MDA levels vary widely based on health status, diet, and other factors. Elevated levels may suggest increased oxidative stress, while normal levels do not definitively rule out damage.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: This test is not routinely used for diagnosis but may help evaluate oxidative damage in research, clinical trials, or specific patient populations with suspected oxidative stress-related conditions. It can complement other tests like vitamin levels or inflammation markers.

Short name

Lipid peroxidation marker

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated MDA levels?
Elevated MDA levels can result from chronic inflammation, exposure to environmental toxins, certain medications, or metabolic disorders that increase oxidative stress. Lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet, or physical inactivity may also contribute.
Can I lower MDA levels naturally?
Yes, reducing oxidative stress may help lower MDA levels. Focus on a diet rich in antioxidants (e.g., fruits, vegetables, nuts), exercise regularly, manage stress, and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol.
Does this test replace other blood tests?
No, this test is supplementary. It should not replace standard blood tests like complete blood counts or lipid panels. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and medical history.
  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