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Oxidative stress marker profile (serum/plasma) – Comprehensive antioxidant/oxidant balance assessment

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

This test measures levels of antioxidants and oxidative stress markers in your blood to help assess how well your body protects itself from harmful free radicals.

Quick summary

["Understanding your body’s balance between antioxidants and oxidative damage can inform health risks and treatment planning."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10246-7
Short code
O2 Ct PA-R-sCnc
Synonyms
O2 Ct PA-R-sCnc
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

Your blood sample will be analyzed for key components that reflect oxidative stress, including antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione, as well as oxidized forms of these molecules or other markers of oxidative damage.

Why It Matters in Your Health

Oxidative stress can contribute to chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and aging. This test helps identify imbalances that may need attention through diet, supplements, or medical interventions.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test may be used to evaluate conditions where oxidative stress is suspected, such as chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or after exposure to toxins or radiation.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The test uses a specific portion of your serum or plasma to measure multiple oxidative markers simultaneously, often processed within hours of collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Oxidative Stress Panel

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow.
What does a high or low result mean?
High oxidative stress (e.g., elevated oxidized markers) may indicate increased risk of inflammation or cellular damage, while low antioxidant levels could suggest deficiencies that may need dietary or supplement support.
Can I take supplements before the test?
Avoiding certain supplements (e.g., high-dose vitamin C or E) for 24 hours before testing may help ensure more accurate results, as they can temporarily alter oxidative balance.
  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