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Serum/plasma mass concentration of a substance related to metabolic screening (e.g., specific amino acid or organic acid)

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

This test measures the amount of a specific substance in your blood, often used to check for metabolic or genetic conditions.

Quick summary

["Helps identify potential metabolic or genetic disorders by detecting unusual levels of certain substances in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75064-6
Short code
VMA SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
VMA SerPl-sCnc
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 This Test Measures

This test quantifies the mass concentration of a particular organic or amino acid in your serum or plasma. The exact substance may vary but is often linked to conditions like inborn errors of metabolism. The test helps identify imbalances that could indicate genetic or metabolic disorders.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unusual fatigue, developmental delays, or unexplained health issues. It’s also used in newborn screening programs or when monitoring conditions like metabolic disorders.

Common Conditions Monitored

While the specific substance isn’t always named, this test can help detect elevated or low levels of substances that may suggest conditions such as amino acidopathies, organic acidemias, or other metabolic disorders.

Sample Collection

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing metabolic disorders early. Early detection can lead to timely treatment, improved outcomes, and better quality of life. It’s particularly important for newborns and individuals with a family history of metabolic conditions.

Short name

Metabolic screening mass concentration test

Frequently asked questions

What does this test check for?
This test checks for the presence and concentration of specific substances in your blood that may be linked to metabolic or genetic disorders. The exact substance depends on the test’s purpose, but it’s often used to identify imbalances that aren’t easily detected by routine blood tests.
How long does it take to get results?
Results from this test are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once the results are ready.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For most metabolic screening tests, you may need to follow specific fasting instructions, but these can vary. Always check with your healthcare provider or lab technician before the test to confirm any dietary restrictions.
  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