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Rubidium (Serum) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of rubidium, a trace mineral, in your blood serum. It may be used to assess certain metabolic or electrolyte imbalances or as part of specialized diagnostic evaluations.

Quick summary

["Rubidium levels help identify potential electrolyte or metabolic disturbances that may require medical attention."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41763-4
Short code
RUBV IgG Titr Ser
Synonyms
RUBV IgG Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or unexplained fluid imbalances. It may also be part of broader evaluations for conditions affecting electrolyte or mineral metabolism, such as certain kidney disorders or metabolic syndrome.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis. Rubidium levels are measured using a specialized method, often an immunoassay or similar technique, to detect its presence in the serum.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., milligrams per deciliter). While reference ranges can vary by lab, abnormal results may indicate electrolyte imbalances or other underlying health concerns that need further investigation.

What Does It Mean If Results Are Abnormal?

Elevated rubidium levels might suggest conditions like certain kidney diseases or metabolic disorders, while very low levels could indicate issues with fluid balance or mineral absorption. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you in detail.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Rubidium Level

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
This test is often done once or as part of a specific diagnostic workup. Rubidium is not a commonly monitored mineral in routine health checks, so results may only be relevant in specialized clinical scenarios. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for follow-up testing if needed.
What are the risks or side effects of this blood test?
The most common side effect is mild bruising or soreness at the needle insertion site. Rarely, there may be a slight reaction to the needle or discomfort during the blood draw. Most people experience minimal or no discomfort.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For most rubidium tests, you can eat and drink normally unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. However, if this test is part of a larger metabolic or electrolyte panel, follow any specific fasting guidelines provided by your healthcare team.
  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