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Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, in a blood sample. This test may be used to evaluate amino acid metabolism.

Quick summary

["This blood test measures alpha-aminobutyric acid and may help assess amino acid metabolism or investigate an abnormal metabolic or liver-related result."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20634-2
Short code
A-Aminobutyr SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
A-Aminobutyr SerPl-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 concentration of alpha-aminobutyric acid in serum or plasma. Alpha-aminobutyric acid is one of the amino acids used by the body to make proteins and other compounds.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of amino acid metabolism, nutritional status, or liver function. It may also be included when investigating an unexplained abnormal laboratory result.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, usually by a venous blood draw. The laboratory separates serum or plasma and measures alpha-aminobutyric acid using a validated laboratory method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about fasting or other preparation. Many alpha-aminobutyric acid tests do not require fasting, but your specific test order and the laboratory's instructions should be followed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What does this test measure?
It measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, in serum or plasma.
Is fasting required?
Fasting is not always required for this test. Follow the instructions provided by your clinician or the laboratory, especially if the test is part of a larger metabolic panel.
What does an abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result may reflect an altered amino acid pattern, liver-related condition, or nutritional or metabolic issue. Your clinician will interpret it alongside your symptoms, examination, and other laboratory results.
  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