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Acetoneexgql

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

A breath test that detects acetone levels in your exhaled breath, commonly used to monitor metabolic conditions like diabetes.

Quick summary

{"Measures acetone in breath to check fat metabolism","Helps monitor diabetes and ketogenic diets","Non-invasive test using a special breathalyzer device","High acetone may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis","Results are ready immediately after the test"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5566-5
Short code
ACET
Synonyms
Acetone ExG Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Direct breath collection into specialized collection device or Tedlar bag
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or enzymatic assay for detection of acetone in breath samples
CPT
82040
SNOMED
414189005
Specimen volume
Single breath exhalation or multiple breath samples
Stability
Analyze within 24 hours; some methods allow up to 72 hours at 2-8°C
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The breath acetone test measures the presence of acetone in your exhaled breath. Acetone is a chemical produced when your body breaks down fat for energy. When fats are metabolized faster than usual, excess acetone enters your bloodstream and is released when you breathe out. This test uses a specialized device similar to a breathalyzer to detect acetone levels in your breath.

How is the test performed?

The test is simple and non-invasive. You will be asked to breathe into a disposable mouthpiece connected to a breathalyzer device. The device analyzes the chemical compounds in your breath and measures acetone concentration. The test typically takes only a few minutes and does not require any blood draws or special preparation. You may be asked to fast or avoid certain foods before the test for accurate results.

What do the results mean?

Normal breath acetone levels are typically very low (less than 1 part per million). Elevated levels may indicate that your body is using fat for energy instead of glucose, which can occur in situations like fasting, prolonged exercise, or following a very low-carbohydrate diet. In people with diabetes, high acetone levels may signal diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Are there any risks?

The breath acetone test is completely safe and non-invasive. There are no known risks or side effects associated with this test. It is painless and does not involve any needles or radiation exposure.

Reference range

Negative: Acetone not detected; Positive: Acetone detected above thresholdN/A

Specimen: serum

Patient should avoid alcohol, mouthwash, and breath fresheners for at least 15 minutes before collection. Avoid smoking and eating for 30 minutes prior to test. Inform healthcare provider of any ketogenic diet, fasting, or diabetes medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before the test?
Your healthcare provider may ask you to fast for 8-12 hours before the test, as food intake can affect acetone levels. Follow any specific instructions given by your doctor or testing facility.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
Generally, you should avoid eating, drinking (except water), smoking, and chewing gum before the test, as these can affect your breath composition. Ask your healthcare provider for specific pre-test instructions.
Is the test painful?
No, the breath acetone test is completely painless. You simply breathe into a device like you would into a breathalyzer. No needles or blood draws are involved.
What can cause false high results?
Factors that may increase breath acetone include fasting, low-carbohydrate diets, intense exercise, alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Inform your doctor about any medications or dietary habits that might affect the results.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available immediately after the test, as the breathalyzer provides instant readings. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your visit.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic - Diabetic ketoacidosisSource
  2. 2
    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Diabetes Tests & DiagnosisSource

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