Tobramycin Serum Concentration (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic tobramycin in your blood serum. Tobramycin is used to treat serious bacterial infections, often in cases where other antibiotics have failed or are ineffective.
["Knowing your tobramycin levels helps doctors monitor your treatment and prevent potential side effects."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50927-3
- Short code
- Tobramycin SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Tobramycin SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re receiving tobramycin therapy to check how well your body is responding to the medication. It’s also used to ensure the drug levels stay within safe ranges to avoid toxicity while effectively treating infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are typically reported in micrograms per milliliter (mcg/mL) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). Your doctor will interpret these results in relation to your specific treatment plan and medical condition.
Common Uses and Indications
This test is commonly used in patients receiving intravenous tobramycin for serious infections like pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or sepsis. It helps adjust dosing to optimize effectiveness and minimize risks.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High tobramycin levels can cause serious side effects such as kidney damage, hearing loss, or nerve damage. Low levels may mean the infection isn’t fully treated. Regular monitoring ensures your levels stay within the safest therapeutic range for your condition.
Short name
Tobramycin Level (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What are the typical side effects of tobramycin?
Can I drink water before the blood draw?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy