Acetoacetate, Serum
Use
Measurement of acetoacetate in serum is used to evaluate ketone body production and metabolic states such as ketoacidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis, or inborn errors of metabolism (e.g., organic acidemias). It assists in assessing metabolic acidosis and monitoring metabolic control in relevant clinical contexts.
Special Instructions
Referral to NMS Labs is required; specimens must be submitted as serum in red‑top (non‑gel) tubes; centrifuge and aliquot 3 mL serum into a plastic preservative‑free vial and send frozen; specimens cannot be shared between orders.
Limitations
Serum gel or SST tubes are not acceptable and cause rejection. Performance characteristics reflect NMS Labs' internal validation and the test has not been cleared or approved by the US FDA. Turnaround time may vary as reported range is 5–11 days.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (Other)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
5-11 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
1.2 mL
Container
Red‑top tube (no gel), aliquot into plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in red‑top tube (no gel); centrifuge and aliquot 3 mL serum into plastic preservative‑free vial; send frozen.
Storage Instructions
Frozen preferred; refrigerated acceptable for up to 4 days.
Causes for Rejection
Serum gel/SST tubes; unacceptable specimen types.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 4 days |
| Frozen | 4 days |
