β-Hydroxybutyrate
Also known as: 3-Hydroxybutyrate (3HB), Beta-Hydroxybutyric Acid, Ketone Bodies
Use
β-hydroxybutyrate is one of three sources of ketone bodies. Ketoacidosis in diabetes usually occurs with decreased plasma pH and bicarbonate, increased glucose, and other abnormalities. As ketoacidosis and metabolic acidosis are treated, hypokalemia may become evident. A normal or low potassium on admission with ketoacidosis may indicate severe potassium depletion.1 Thus, potassium is among parameters to follow in treatment of ketoacidosis. In children younger than 10 years of age, diabetic ketoacidosis is reported to account for 70% of diabetes-related deaths.2
Special Instructions
Fasting is preferred, but non-fasting samples are acceptable. Serum/plasma must be separated from cells within two hours of venipuncture. Transfer separated serum/plasma to a plastic transport tube. To avoid delays in turnaround time when requesting multiple tests on frozen samples, please submit separate frozen specimens for each test requested.
Limitations
The β-hydroxybutyrate assay will not detect acetoacetic acid and acetone. Acidosis shifts equilibrium toward β-hydroxybutyrate, but treatment of ketoacidosis results in increased acetoacetate and a more positive 'acetone' reaction before ketone bodies decrease.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 29512-1
- 29512-1
Result Turnaround Time
3-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, or green-top (sodium heparin) tube.
Collection Instructions
Serum/plasma must be separated from cells within two hours of venipuncture. Transfer separated serum/plasma to a plastic transport tube. To avoid delays in turnaround time when requesting multiple tests on frozen samples, please submit separate frozen specimens for each test requested.
Patient Preparation
Fasting is preferred, but non-fasting samples are acceptable.
Storage Instructions
Freeze.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 2 days |
| Frozen | 11 days |