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Serum N-acetylneuraminic acid (sialic acid) concentration

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

This test measures the amount of sialic acid, a type of sugar found in your blood serum. It may be used to assess metabolic or genetic conditions affecting sugar metabolism.

Quick summary

["Sialic acid levels can help diagnose or monitor certain inherited disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17648-7
Short code
S pneum Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Synonyms
S pneum Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 recommend this test if you have symptoms or a family history suggestive of conditions like sialidosis, a rare metabolic disorder caused by abnormal sialic acid buildup. It could also be part of broader genetic testing for inherited metabolic diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know to avoid unnecessary delays.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a reference range for healthy individuals, though exact values can vary by lab. Elevated levels may indicate sialidosis or other metabolic issues, while normal or low levels don’t definitively rule out conditions but may prompt further evaluation.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is primarily used to diagnose or confirm sialidosis (a lysosomal storage disorder) or other sialic acid-related metabolic disorders. It’s not routinely checked for general health or common conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Sialic Acid Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
Elevated sialic acid levels may suggest sialidosis or other lysosomal storage disorders, which can cause neurological symptoms, organ damage, or developmental delays. Your provider will discuss next steps based on your symptoms and lab results, possibly including genetic counseling or specialized treatment options.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
If you have a confirmed diagnosis of a metabolic disorder affecting sialic acid, your provider may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, this test is rarely repeated unless symptoms or genetic testing suggest a need for follow-up.
Can Diet or Supplements Affect This Test?
Dietary changes or supplements (like certain vitamins or amino acids) may indirectly influence metabolic conditions linked to sialic acid, but they won’t directly alter this test result. Always follow your provider’s advice regarding dietary restrictions or supplements if you’re undergoing metabolic testing.
  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