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: Threonine, Serum or Plasma

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

: This test measures the amount of threonine, an essential amino acid, in a sample of serum or plasma.

Quick summary

[": A threonine level helps assess amino acid balance and can support evaluation of nutritional or metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47790-1
Short code
Threonine SFr Spec
Synonyms
Threonine SFr Spec
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

: What Is Threonine?

: Threonine is an essential amino acid, meaning the body cannot make it and must obtain it from protein-rich foods. It is used to build proteins and plays a role in normal growth, immune function, and metabolism.

: How the Test Is Done

: A blood sample is collected from a vein, typically in your arm, and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Your healthcare provider will give you any specific instructions before the sample is drawn.

: What Results Mean

: Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider alongside your symptoms, diet, and other laboratory findings. Levels that are higher or lower than expected may reflect nutritional status or an underlying metabolic condition and do not by themselves diagnose a disease.

: Why It May Be Ordered

: The test may be ordered when a disorder of amino acid metabolism or a nutritional deficiency is suspected. It is often part of a broader panel that measures several amino acids together.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

: Threonine

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast before this test?
: Fasting requirements depend on the reason the test is being ordered. Follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider or the laboratory.
: Is threonine measured alone or with other amino acids?
: It is often measured as part of a panel of several amino acids, which gives a more complete picture of amino acid status.
: Can diet affect my threonine result?
: Yes. Because threonine comes from dietary protein, recent food intake can influence results, and your provider will consider this when interpreting your test.
  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