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Mass concentration of a substance in serum/plasma (e.g., a specific protein or metabolite)

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

This test measures the amount of a particular substance in your blood, typically done to check for certain conditions or monitor treatment.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors assess levels of specific substances that may affect your health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3793-7
Short code
MTX SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
MTX SerPl-mCnc
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

What This Test Measures

The test detects the mass concentration of a specific analyte (such as a protein, hormone, or metabolite) in your blood serum or plasma. The exact substance being measured may vary depending on clinical need, but it often relates to conditions like kidney function, liver health, or metabolic disorders.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as protein disorders, metabolic imbalances, or to evaluate how your body processes certain substances. It could also be used in research or specialized clinical settings.

Common Uses

Common reasons include checking for abnormal protein levels, metabolic screening, or assessing exposure to certain substances in research or toxicology studies.

Sample Collection

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed into serum or plasma for testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What does this test measure exactly?
This test measures the mass concentration of a specific substance in your blood, but the exact substance depends on the clinical context. Your healthcare provider will specify what is being tested.
How long will I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications depending on the test. Follow your provider’s instructions.
Can I take my usual medications before this test?
Some medications may affect test results. Ask your healthcare provider if you should stop taking any medications before this test, unless they are essential.
  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