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Serum Salicylate Concentration (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of salicylate, a compound found in aspirin and some other medications, in your blood serum.

Quick summary

["Helps assess aspirin overdose or long-term exposure risks."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17560-4
Short code
Salicylates Gast Ql
Synonyms
Salicylates Gast Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 50 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 order this test if you’ve taken high doses of aspirin, experienced symptoms like nausea, ringing in the ears, or confusion, or if you’re suspected of an overdose. It may also be used to monitor chronic salicylate exposure in certain medical conditions.

What to Expect During the Test

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. No special preparation is needed.

How the Results Are Interpreted

Results are compared to general reference ranges for salicylate levels, though exact values can vary by lab. High levels may indicate toxicity, while low levels suggest insufficient exposure.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated salicylate levels can result from accidental or intentional overdose, certain medications, or chronic use of salicylates. Low levels might occur if you’re not taking enough medication or have metabolic issues.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 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

Salicylate Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high salicylate level mean?
A high level suggests potential toxicity from aspirin or other salicylate-containing products. Your provider will evaluate symptoms and adjust treatment accordingly.
Can diet affect salicylate test results?
Dietary salicylates (e.g., from fruits like cherries or berries) are generally low and unlikely to affect this test unless consumed in very large amounts. Avoid sudden dietary changes before testing.
How soon after taking aspirin should I get tested?
Ideally, testing should occur 4–6 hours after ingestion for accurate results. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency care immediately.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy