Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Salicylate Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of salicylate, a compound found in aspirin, in your blood.

Quick summary

["Salicylate levels help monitor aspirin overdose or therapeutic dosing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44590-8
Short code
SIgA Sal Ql
Synonyms
SIgA Sal Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve taken too much aspirin, have symptoms of poisoning, or if you’re taking aspirin for a specific medical condition (like rheumatoid arthritis) and need to check how well it’s working in your body.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re taking aspirin regularly, your provider may ask you to stop it temporarily for a few days before testing.

What the Test Results Mean

Salicylate levels can vary widely depending on how much aspirin you’ve taken, how your body processes it, and other factors like kidney function. High levels may indicate overdose or toxicity, while therapeutic levels may be needed for certain conditions.

Possible Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated salicylate levels can result from accidental overdose, intentional poisoning, or excessive aspirin use. Low levels might occur if you’re not taking enough aspirin or if your body metabolizes it quickly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Salicylate Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a high salicylate level mean?
A high salicylate level may signal aspirin toxicity, which can cause nausea, vomiting, ringing in the ears, confusion, or even severe complications like respiratory distress or kidney damage. Your provider will assess symptoms and lab results to guide treatment, such as stopping aspirin or supportive care.
What does a low salicylate level mean?
A low salicylate level may mean you’re not absorbing enough aspirin or your body is processing it too quickly. If you’re on aspirin for a medical reason, low levels might indicate insufficient therapeutic effect, prompting your provider to adjust your dose.
How often should I get this test?
This test is typically done only when needed—such as after an overdose, during monitoring of chronic aspirin use, or if you experience symptoms like dizziness or stomach pain. Your provider will determine the timing based on your situation.
  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