Skip to content

Serum/plasma concentration of nitric oxide metabolites (nitrite/nitrate)

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

This test measures the presence of nitric oxide metabolites in your blood, which are produced when nitric oxide—a natural chemical in your body—is broken down. It helps assess how well your body’s nitric oxide system is functioning.

Quick summary

["This test may help evaluate conditions affecting blood flow or oxidative stress."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72954-1
Short code
Sildenafil cit (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
Sildenafil cit (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like chronic fatigue, poor circulation, or conditions linked to oxidative stress (e.g., certain heart or vascular diseases). It can also be part of broader investigations for unexplained issues like high blood pressure or organ dysfunction.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to measure the levels of nitrite and nitrate, which are indicators of nitric oxide activity in your body.

What Do Results Mean?

Results don’t provide specific numeric ranges, but they can help compare your levels to general trends. Elevated levels may suggest increased nitric oxide production, while lower levels might indicate reduced function in systems relying on nitric oxide.

What Are Common Conditions Monitored?

This test is less commonly used for routine screening but may support diagnosis or monitoring of conditions like vascular diseases, certain inflammatory disorders, or metabolic imbalances where nitric oxide plays a role.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Elevated or reduced nitrite/nitrate levels may signal underlying physiological imbalances, such as oxidative stress, vascular dysfunction, or metabolic disorders. However, interpretation requires clinical correlation with patient symptoms and history. This test is often part of a broader diagnostic approach rather than a standalone evaluation.

Short name

Nitrite/Nitrate Levels

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean?
A high result may indicate increased nitric oxide metabolism, which could be associated with certain inflammatory or vascular responses, but it’s not definitive on its own. A low result might suggest reduced nitric oxide activity, potentially linked to conditions affecting blood flow or oxidative balance.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. If this test is part of a monitoring plan for a specific condition, follow their guidance. Otherwise, it’s typically not a routine screening test.
Can diet or lifestyle affect my test results?
Yes, dietary nitrates (found in vegetables like beets) and certain medications (e.g., nitroglycerin) can influence nitric oxide levels. Avoid high-nitrate foods for 24 hours before testing if instructed by your provider.
  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