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Osteocalcin (Bone-Globulin) Serum Concentration

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

This test measures the level of osteocalcin, a protein produced by bone cells that helps regulate bone formation. It can help assess bone health and activity.

Quick summary

["Osteocalcin helps track bone metabolism and may indicate bone formation or healing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35985-1
Short code
XR tomo Femur
Synonyms
XR tomo Femur
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-tomography
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 Osteocalcin Used For?

Osteocalcin is primarily used to evaluate bone turnover and activity. It can be helpful in diagnosing conditions affecting bone density, such as osteoporosis, or monitoring treatment responses in patients with bone-related disorders.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may request osteocalcin testing if you have symptoms or risk factors for bone disorders, such as low bone density, fractures, or conditions like Paget’s disease. It may also be used in research or clinical trials involving bone metabolism.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis to measure osteocalcin levels.

What Does a High or Low Level Mean?

Elevated osteocalcin levels may suggest increased bone formation, which can occur in conditions like hyperparathyroidism, pregnancy, or certain cancers. Lower levels might indicate reduced bone turnover, as seen in some chronic kidney diseases or long-term steroid use.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Osteocalcin (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What are the normal reference ranges for osteocalcin?
Reference ranges can vary by lab and testing method. Your doctor will interpret the result in the context of your overall health and medical history.
Can diet or supplements affect osteocalcin levels?
Certain foods rich in vitamin K (like leafy greens) and calcium may influence bone metabolism, but osteocalcin is primarily a marker of bone cell activity rather than dietary intake.
Is osteocalcin testing painful?
The blood draw itself may cause mild discomfort, but most people tolerate it well. You can ask your healthcare provider about pain relief options if needed.
  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