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Total Antioxidant Capacity of Serum (e.g., Total Radical Scavenging Activity)

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

This test measures the overall ability of your blood serum to neutralize harmful free radicals, which can help protect cells from oxidative damage.

Quick summary

["Assesses your body’s natural antioxidant defenses in serum samples."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35681-6
Short code
tTG Ab Pnl Ser
Synonyms
tTG Ab Pnl Ser
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 Does This Test Measure?

Total antioxidant capacity reflects the combined effect of various antioxidants in your blood, including vitamins (like C and E), enzymes, and other molecules that help prevent oxidative stress. This test typically uses a standardized method to evaluate how effectively these antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may request this test to evaluate your risk of chronic diseases linked to oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, or certain cancers. It may also be used in research or clinical settings to monitor antioxidant status in patients with known oxidative damage or metabolic disorders.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion of the blood is then analyzed in a laboratory using a method that measures its ability to scavenge free radicals. The results are expressed as a relative measure of antioxidant capacity, though exact reference ranges vary by lab.

What Are Common Uses?

This test is not routinely ordered for general health screening but may be used in specialized contexts, such as assessing antioxidant status in athletes, patients with metabolic syndrome, or those undergoing treatments that increase oxidative stress (e.g., chemotherapy).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Antioxidant Serum Test

Frequently asked questions

What factors could affect my results?
Several factors may influence your total antioxidant capacity, including diet (e.g., intake of fruits, vegetables, and supplements), lifestyle (e.g., smoking, alcohol consumption), chronic illnesses, and medications. For example, certain medications or conditions that increase oxidative stress (like diabetes) may lower antioxidant levels.
How long will I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications (e.g., some blood pressure or diabetes drugs) or foods that could interfere with results, depending on the lab’s protocol. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Will this test show if I have a vitamin deficiency?
Not directly. While low antioxidant capacity may indicate insufficient intake of specific vitamins (like vitamin C or E), this test measures overall antioxidant activity rather than individual vitamin levels. Additional tests may be needed to assess specific nutrient deficiencies.
  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