Pyruvate Carboxylase Activity in Whole Blood
This test measures the activity level of pyruvate carboxylase, an enzyme involved in converting pyruvate—a byproduct of glucose metabolism—into oxaloacetate, a key step in cellular energy production.
["Pyruvate carboxylase activity helps assess how well your body’s metabolic pathways function, particularly in conditions affecting energy production or mitochondrial function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47881-8
- Short code
- Pyruvate Carboxylase WBC-cCnt
- Synonyms
- Pyruvate Carboxylase WBC-cCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or neurological issues that could suggest metabolic disorders. It’s also sometimes used in research or specialized genetic testing for inherited metabolic diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to discuss with your provider.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted in the context of your overall health and symptoms. Low activity might indicate enzyme deficiencies or mitochondrial disorders, while normal levels suggest healthy metabolic function. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
This test is particularly relevant for diagnosing or monitoring conditions like pyruvate carboxylase deficiency, a rare genetic disorder affecting energy metabolism. It may also be part of broader metabolic screening in certain inherited diseases.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Pyruvate Carboxylase Activity
Frequently asked questions
What questions might you have about this test?
How long will I need to wait for results? Turnaround times vary by lab and clinical need. Some results may be available within days, while others could take weeks, especially if additional testing is required.
Is this test covered by insurance? Coverage depends on your diagnosis, clinical indication, and insurance plan. Check with your provider or insurance company to confirm.
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