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Plasma/Serum Erythrocyte Respiratory Pigment Response Index (Quantitative)

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

This test measures how red blood cells respond to oxygen levels in your blood, which can help assess oxygen-carrying capacity or potential metabolic issues.

Quick summary

["Helps evaluate how well your red blood cells function in transporting and using oxygen."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96326-4
Short code
P aerug DNA L resp NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
Synonyms
P aerug DNA L resp NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
non-probe-amp-tar
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

This test evaluates the functional capacity of red blood cells (erythrocytes) to utilize oxygen. It may be part of broader assessments for conditions affecting oxygen metabolism, such as anemia or certain metabolic disorders.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or if tests suggest abnormal oxygen handling in your blood. It can also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to study erythrocyte function.

How the Test Works

Blood is drawn and analyzed to measure how efficiently red blood cells respond to oxygen changes. The test may involve exposing cells to controlled oxygen conditions and assessing their metabolic activity.

Preparation and Sample Collection

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is collected from a vein, typically in the arm. Plasma or serum is used for analysis, depending on the method.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Erythrocyte Oxygen Utilization Index

Frequently asked questions

Reduced erythrocyte respiratory function may indicate underlying conditions like mitochondrial disorders, certain anemias, or metabolic syndromes. Elevated or altered responses could suggest oxidative stress or other metabolic disturbances.
This test is not commonly used in routine clinical practice and may be reserved for specialized diagnostic or research purposes. Results are interpreted in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
What does a low or high result mean?
A low result might suggest inefficient oxygen utilization by red blood cells, which could relate to conditions like mitochondrial dysfunction or certain types of anemia. A high result may indicate compensatory mechanisms or oxidative stress, but further evaluation is needed.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results may take several days to a week, depending on the lab’s workload and testing complexity. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they are available.
  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