Test Code BHB Beta-Hydroxybutyrate
Additional Codes
Acetone Bodies
Specimen Type
1 mL of Lithium Heparin plasma
- Preferred Specimen: Light Green Plasma Seperator Tube (PST)
- Acceptable Specimen: EDTA, Heparin, or sodium fuloride plasma or Serum
Centrifuge blood as soon as possible, or send unspun blood to laboratory within 4 hours of draw. Avoid hemolysis.
Reference Values
0 < 0.4
Technical Range: 0.1-8.0
Useful For
Beta Hydroxy Butyrate is useful for detecting and managing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
Performing Laboratory
St. Clair Hospital Laboratory