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Nitric Oxide in Plasma (by Chemiluminescence)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of nitric oxide, a naturally occurring chemical in your blood that helps regulate blood flow and inflammation. Nitric oxide plays a key role in vascular health and immune responses.

Quick summary

["Nitric oxide helps control blood pressure and blood vessel function, and may influence chronic inflammation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77621-1
Short code
NT-proBNP Plr IA-mCnc
Synonyms
NT-proBNP Plr IA-mCnc
Category
coagulation
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
100
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
83880
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

Nitric oxide is produced by cells in your body, particularly in blood vessels. It helps relax blood vessels, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure. This test measures the concentration of nitric oxide in your plasma, which can be affected by conditions involving inflammation, vascular health, or certain medications.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions related to poor circulation, such as peripheral artery disease, or if you have chronic inflammation, autoimmune disorders, or are taking medications that affect nitric oxide levels.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The plasma portion is separated and analyzed using a chemiluminescence method, which detects the presence of nitric oxide by measuring light produced during a chemical reaction.

What Are Common Reasons for Testing?

Common reasons include evaluating vascular function, assessing chronic inflammation, diagnosing or monitoring conditions like Raynaud’s phenomenon, or checking for side effects of certain medications that influence nitric oxide production.

Reference range

Normal: <100 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: fluid

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Plasma Nitric Oxide Level

Frequently asked questions

How Does This Test Help Healthcare Providers?
Healthcare providers use this test to assess vascular health, identify inflammation-related conditions, and monitor treatment effectiveness. Abnormal levels may indicate vascular diseases, autoimmune disorders, or other systemic conditions requiring further investigation.
What Might Abnormal Results Indicate?
Low levels of nitric oxide may suggest vascular dysfunction, inflammation, or conditions like atherosclerosis. High levels could be associated with certain inflammatory states or medications that boost nitric oxide production, but interpretation depends on clinical context and other test results.
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
The frequency depends on your medical condition and treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will determine how often this test should be repeated, typically based on symptoms, lab trends, or ongoing management of a specific health issue.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy