4ohmandelateserplscnc
A blood test that measures levels of 4-hydroxymandelate, a substance produced during the breakdown of certain amino acids in the body.
{"Measures a metabolite produced from tyrosine breakdown","Helps diagnose certain metabolic and neurological conditions","Requires a blood sample drawn from a vein","Results help doctors evaluate how your body processes amino acids"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79508-8
- Short code
- 4HMA
- Synonyms
- 4OHMandelate SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 82542
- SNOMED
- 313342003
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL minimum, 2.0 mL preferred
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 4-hydroxymandelate test measures the amount of 4-hydroxymandelate in your blood. This substance is a byproduct, or metabolite, created when your body breaks down an amino acid called tyrosine. Tyrosine is found in many foods and is also produced by your body. The test helps doctors understand how well this metabolic process is working.
Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect a problem with how your body processes certain amino acids. It may be used to help diagnose conditions that affect metabolism, evaluate certain neurological disorders, or monitor patients with tumors that affect neurotransmitter production. The test provides important information about your body's biochemical processes.
How is the test done?
A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. The procedure is quick and usually takes only a few minutes. You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted.
How to prepare for the test
Follow your doctor's instructions about whether to fast (not eat or drink) before the test. Some medications may affect test results, so inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. Your healthcare provider will let you know if any special preparation is needed.
Understanding your results
Your test results will show whether your 4-hydroxymandelate levels are within a normal range. Abnormal levels may indicate various conditions, and your doctor will explain what your specific results mean in the context of your overall health and other test findings.
Reference range
Reference range: 0.0-5.0 μmol/L (typical range; laboratory-specific reference values recommended)N/A
No special preparation required. Fasting is not mandatory but may be recommended based on clinical indication. Maintain normal hydration status.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy