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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 serum. Rubidium is not commonly regulated by the body and is primarily found in small amounts in blood.

Quick summary

["Rubidium levels are rarely checked unless part of a broader metabolic or electrolyte evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6548-2
Short code
RUBV Ser Cult
Synonyms
RUBV Ser Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
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

What Is Rubidium?

Rubidium is a soft, silvery metal that belongs to the alkali metal group. In the human body, it exists in trace amounts and is not essential for normal function. It can be detected in blood serum through specialized laboratory testing.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Rubidium levels are not typically ordered as a standalone test. They may be measured incidentally during broader evaluations, such as when assessing electrolyte imbalances, kidney function, or certain metabolic conditions. Some research studies or specialized clinical scenarios might include rubidium testing.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method to measure rubidium concentration.

What Do Results Mean?

Interpretation of rubidium levels depends on clinical context. Abnormal results may suggest underlying conditions that require further investigation by your healthcare provider, such as electrolyte disorders or exposure to certain substances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Rubidium Level

Frequently asked questions

Is rubidium testing common?
Rubidium testing is not a routine part of standard medical testing. It is usually performed only in specific clinical situations, such as research studies, specialized diagnostic evaluations, or when investigating unusual electrolyte patterns.
What causes abnormal rubidium levels?
Abnormal rubidium levels are rare and typically occur in cases of significant metabolic disturbances, exposure to rubidium-containing substances, or as part of specialized diagnostic protocols. Your healthcare provider would discuss findings in detail based on your medical history and symptoms.
Can diet or lifestyle affect rubidium levels?
Dietary rubidium intake is minimal and generally does not significantly impact blood levels. Lifestyle factors like hydration status or exposure to certain environmental substances may indirectly influence results, but rubidium itself is not commonly regulated by typical dietary habits.
  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