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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

Measures alpha-aminobutyric acid in blood to help evaluate amino acid metabolism, nutritional status, and liver function.

Quick summary

This blood test measures alpha-aminobutyric acid, which may provide information about nutrition and liver function.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70181-3
Short code
A-Aminobutyr SerPl Fetus-sCnc
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr SerPl Fetus-sCnc
Category
liver
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 is this test?

This test measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, in serum or plasma. It is sometimes used as part of an assessment of nutritional status and liver function.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when evaluating suspected liver disease, malnutrition, or changes in amino acid metabolism. It may also be used alongside other laboratory tests rather than as a stand-alone diagnosis.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the liquid portion of the sample, called serum or plasma, is analyzed to determine the concentration of alpha-aminobutyric acid.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required, but your clinician may request fasting or specific timing. Follow any instructions provided with your lab order and tell the healthcare professional if you are pregnant or taking medicines that may affect the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal result may occur with liver disease, impaired kidney function, malnutrition, or other changes in amino acid metabolism. The result should be interpreted with symptoms, medical history, and other laboratory tests because it is not diagnostic by itself.

Short name

Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a specific condition?
No. It provides information about alpha-aminobutyric acid levels and is usually interpreted with other findings to assess nutrition, liver function, or metabolism.
Does eating affect the result?
Diet can influence amino acid levels. If fasting was requested, follow the clinician's instructions before the blood draw.
What if my result is outside the laboratory's reference range?
An out-of-range result does not by itself establish a diagnosis. Your clinician can review the value in context and may recommend additional testing or follow-up.
  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