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Alternative Names Return to top
Acetone bodies; Ketones - serum; Nitroprusside test; Ketone bodies - serumDefinition Return to top
This test measures the amount of ketones (substances produced when fat cells break down) in the blood.
How the Test is Performed Return to top
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.
Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
In infants or young children, a sharp tool called a lancet may be used to puncture the skin and make it bleed. The blood collects into a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.
How to Prepare for the Test Return to top
Fast for 4 hours before the test.
How the Test Will Feel Return to top
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the Test is Performed Return to top
This test is used to diagnose ketoacidosis.
A normal test result would be negative, meaning there are no ketone bodies in the blood.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean Return to top
A test result is positive if ketones are found in the blood. This may indicate:
Risks Return to top
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
Considerations Return to top
A diet low in carbohydrates can increase ketone bodies.
References Return to top
Cooper HH, Krainik AJ, Lubner SJ, Reno HEL, eds. The Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics. 32nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer; 2007. Update Date: 10/31/2007 Updated by: Robert Hurd, M.D., Professor of Endocrinology, Department of Biology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio, and physician in the Primary Care Clinic, Cincinnati Veterans Administration Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 29 January 2009 |
