Pyruvate concentration in plasma (24-hour profile)
This test measures the levels of pyruvate, a metabolic intermediate, over a 24-hour period in your blood plasma. It helps assess how well your body converts food into energy and may identify metabolic disorders.
["This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions affecting energy metabolism."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27963-8
- Short code
- Pyruvate 1h p chal Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Pyruvate 1h p chal Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order a 24-hour pyruvate profile if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or unexplained metabolic issues. It can also be used to evaluate conditions such as mitochondrial disorders, lactic acidosis, or inherited metabolic diseases that disrupt pyruvate processing.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but you may need to fast for a certain period before collecting blood samples. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully. Blood samples are drawn at multiple time points over 24 hours to track pyruvate levels accurately.
How the Test Works
Blood samples are collected from a vein in your arm at scheduled intervals. The samples are analyzed using a specialized method to measure pyruvate concentration in plasma. This data helps create a profile of how pyruvate levels fluctuate throughout the day.
What the Results Mean
Results show pyruvate levels at different times. Abnormal patterns may indicate metabolic imbalances, such as inefficient energy production or enzyme deficiencies. Your provider will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
24-Hour Pyruvate Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a pyruvate profile help detect?
How often should this test be repeated?
Can lifestyle changes affect pyruvate levels?
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