Proline in Hair (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of proline, an essential amino acid, found in hair samples. Hair is analyzed to assess amino acid composition, which can sometimes reflect broader nutritional or metabolic health.
["Hair proline testing helps evaluate amino acid levels that may relate to overall protein metabolism and potential nutritional deficiencies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47733-1
- Short code
- Proline SFr Hair
- Synonyms
- Proline SFr Hair
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Hair proline testing may be used in specialized research or clinical studies to investigate amino acid metabolism, protein synthesis pathways, or conditions linked to amino acid imbalances. It is not a routine diagnostic test for most health concerns.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are not typically interpreted in isolation for clinical decisions. They may be part of a broader analysis in research settings, such as studying genetic disorders, metabolic diseases, or nutritional assessment in specific populations.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small sample of hair is collected, usually from the scalp or other areas. The hair is processed in a laboratory to extract and measure proline content.
What Are Common Uses?
This test is primarily used in advanced research or niche clinical applications, such as studying amino acid disorders, protein metabolism research, or evaluating long-term nutritional status in specialized cases.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Hair proline levels can indirectly reflect amino acid availability and protein synthesis processes. Abnormalities may suggest underlying metabolic conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or genetic disorders affecting amino acid metabolism, though results alone are rarely definitive for diagnosis.
Short name
Hair Proline
Frequently asked questions
What does a hair proline test measure?
Is this test standard for diagnosing common health conditions?
How long does it take to get results?
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