Proline (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of the amino acid proline in your blood. Proline is important for collagen formation and protein synthesis.
["Proline levels can help assess protein metabolism and certain metabolic or collagen-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13401-5
- Short code
- OH-Proline Amn-mCnc
- Synonyms
- OH-Proline Amn-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to abnormal proline metabolism, such as liver disease, kidney problems, or certain metabolic disorders. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for collagen-related disorders or nutritional assessments.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Avoid strenuous activity the day before.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure proline concentration.
What the Results Mean
Results are usually reported as a mass concentration (e.g., in micromoles per liter). While reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal levels may indicate metabolic imbalances, liver or kidney dysfunction, or other conditions affecting amino acid metabolism.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Proline Level
Frequently asked questions
Proline levels can be elevated in conditions like liver cirrhosis, advanced kidney disease, or certain amino acid disorders. Low levels may suggest malnutrition, severe liver dysfunction, or other metabolic disturbances. This test is less commonly used than others but can support a broader diagnostic picture.
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once results are ready.
If your results are abnormal, your provider will discuss next steps, which may include further testing, dietary adjustments, or monitoring for underlying conditions. Follow their guidance closely.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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