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Total Antioxidant Capacity of Plasma (ORAC-like measurement)

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

This test measures how effectively your blood plasma resists oxidative damage, which helps protect cells from stress caused by free radicals.

Quick summary

["Assesses your body’s natural antioxidant defenses in whole blood plasma."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78186-4
Short code
MV lat ann e-prime Vmax TDI
Synonyms
MV lat ann e-prime Vmax TDI
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-tissue-doppler
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 evaluates the overall ability of plasma to neutralize free radicals—a process critical for preventing cellular damage. It combines multiple antioxidants (e.g., vitamins, polyphenols) into a single metric, often compared to the ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) method.

Why It Matters

Higher antioxidant capacity may indicate better protection against chronic inflammation, aging, and conditions like heart disease or diabetes. Lower levels could signal oxidative stress, which may require lifestyle adjustments or further evaluation.

Common Uses

Doctors may order this test to assess general health risks, monitor chronic conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease), or evaluate responses to antioxidant supplements.

Sample Collection

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. Plasma is separated from blood cells and analyzed for its antioxidant capacity.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: This test is not routinely ordered but may be used in specialized research or clinical scenarios to evaluate oxidative stress or antioxidant status in patients with suspected metabolic or inflammatory conditions. Results alone do not diagnose specific diseases but can inform broader health strategies.

Short name

Plasma Antioxidant Capacity

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor request this test?
Your doctor may order it if you have chronic health concerns (e.g., heart disease, diabetes) or if you’re exploring antioxidant supplements. It’s less common than standard blood tests but can provide insight into your body’s resilience to oxidative damage.
What do my results mean?
Results are not provided in absolute numbers but as a relative measure of plasma antioxidant capacity. Higher values suggest stronger defenses, while lower values may warrant discussion about diet, lifestyle, or supplements. Always ask your doctor for interpretation.
Is this test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance and reason for testing. Routine antioxidant capacity tests are rarely covered unless tied to a specific clinical question. Check with your provider or insurance company for details.
  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