Titratable Serum Acidity (pH Titration) or Serum pH Titration Index
This test measures how much acid a sample of your serum can neutralize, often used to assess kidney function and acid-base balance.
["Helps evaluate kidney ability to regulate blood acidity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34382-2
- Short code
- T palldm Ab Titr Ser IF
- Synonyms
- T palldm Ab Titr Ser IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
This test evaluates the titratable acidity in your serum, which reflects how well your kidneys can excrete excess acid from your blood. It’s typically performed by titrating (gradually adding base) to a serum sample until it reaches a neutral pH, measuring the volume of base needed. This process indirectly assesses your body’s acid-base homeostasis and kidney function.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or signs of metabolic acidosis (such as confusion or rapid breathing). It may also be used in patients with chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, or those on medications that affect acid-base balance.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion is separated from blood cells and sent to the lab for titration analysis. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be required depending on the clinical indication.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but if your doctor mentions fasting or other instructions, follow those carefully. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any medications you’re currently taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Serum pH Titration
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low result mean?
This test measures titratable acidity rather than direct pH. While both assess acidity, titratable acidity provides insight into kidney function and acid excretion capacity, which is critical for diagnosing conditions like chronic kidney disease or metabolic acidosis.
The blood draw itself may cause mild discomfort, but the test itself is non-invasive. Most people experience only a brief pinch when the needle is inserted.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy