Pyruvate concentration in serum/plasma (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of pyruvate, a chemical produced when your body breaks down carbohydrates for energy. It can help assess metabolic health, especially in conditions affecting how your body uses glucose.
["Pyruvate levels may indicate metabolic issues or how efficiently your body converts food into energy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27968-7
- Short code
- Pyruvate 2h p chal Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Pyruvate 2h p chal Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82670
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or unexplained weight changes. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for metabolic disorders, such as certain genetic conditions or diabetes-related complications.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method to measure pyruvate levels.
What to Expect Before or After the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if your test is part of a metabolic study. After drawing blood, you can resume normal activities. Results may take several days to weeks to receive.
Common Conditions Monitored
Elevated or low pyruvate levels can signal metabolic disorders, such as pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency or other inherited metabolic diseases. It may also be monitored in patients undergoing treatment for conditions affecting glucose metabolism.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Pyruvate is an intermediate in cellular respiration. Abnormal levels may reflect impaired energy production pathways, particularly in conditions affecting mitochondrial function or carbohydrate metabolism. This test is often used in specialized metabolic evaluations.
Short name
Pyruvate Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes pyruvate levels to be tested?
What do abnormal results mean?
How often should I get this test?
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