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Placental Pyruvate Carboxylase Activity (Placental Tissue)

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

This test measures the activity of an enzyme called pyruvate carboxylase in placental tissue. It may be used to assess metabolic function in pregnancy-related conditions.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate placental enzyme function, potentially linked to pregnancy health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47882-6
Short code
Pyruvate Carboxylase Placenta-cCnt
Synonyms
Pyruvate Carboxylase Placenta-cCnt
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions that could affect placental metabolism, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or other pregnancy-related complications. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for metabolic disorders in pregnancy.

What to Expect Before the Test

You will provide a small sample of placental tissue collected during delivery. The sample is typically processed in the lab to measure enzyme activity. No special preparation is needed beyond standard prenatal care.

How the Test Works

Pyruvate carboxylase is an enzyme involved in converting pyruvate (a byproduct of glucose metabolism) into oxaloacetate, a key step in the citric acid cycle. The test measures how effectively this enzyme functions in placental tissue.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are qualitative (not numerical ranges provided) and are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on clinical context. Abnormal enzyme activity may suggest metabolic dysfunction in the placenta.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low or altered placental pyruvate carboxylase activity could indicate impaired glucose metabolism or other metabolic disturbances that may impact fetal development. This test is not routinely performed but may be considered in specific high-risk pregnancies or research settings.

Short name

Placental Pyruvate Carboxylase Activity

Frequently asked questions

What does a low or high enzyme activity mean?
A low enzyme activity might suggest placental metabolic issues that could affect fetal growth or glucose regulation. A high activity could also be clinically significant depending on the clinical context, such as potential overcompensation or other metabolic pathways.
Is this test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance plan and clinical indication. Check with your insurance provider or healthcare provider to confirm if this specific test is covered under your plan.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically reported within a few days to a week after the sample is processed, depending on lab capacity. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during a follow-up visit.
  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