Serum or plasma concentration of sialic acid
This test measures the amount of sialic acid, a type of sugar found in certain body fluids, including blood. It may be used to assess metabolic or biochemical conditions affecting these sugars.
["Sialic acid levels can help diagnose or monitor metabolic disorders linked to sugar metabolism."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 75045-5
- Short code
- Sialate Amn-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Sialate Amn-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions that could be linked to abnormal sialic acid levels, such as certain genetic metabolic disorders (e.g., sialidosis). It may also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained biochemical imbalances or inherited metabolic diseases.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma, where sialic acid levels are measured using a specialized laboratory technique.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if instructed by your provider. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest for a short time after the draw.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie down comfortably while a healthcare professional inserts a small needle into your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes just a few minutes. A bandage will cover the site afterward.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated or low sialic acid levels may indicate inherited metabolic disorders, such as sialidosis, which can affect organs like the liver, kidneys, or nervous system. Abnormal results may prompt further testing or genetic counseling to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Short name
Sialic Acid Level
Frequently asked questions
What are the possible causes of abnormal results?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can diet or lifestyle affect this test?
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