Beta-Hydroxybutyrate

Message

Performing Lab: Regions, Hudson, Westfields, Lakeview

Test Code

2748

Alias/See Also

Sunquest: BHOB; Beta Hydroxybutyric Acid

CPT Codes
82010

Preferred Specimen

0.2 mL Lithium Heparin Plasma (light green-top) tube

Minimum Volume

0.1 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Serum separator (gold-top), EDTA plasma (lavender-top), Red, Red/Gray

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Room Temperature: 8 hours
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 3 months

Methodology
Enzymatic

Setup Schedule

Daily

Report Available

Same day.

Reference Range

0.02 - 0.27 mmol/L

Clinical Significance

Ketosis is the accumulation in the body of the ketone bodies: acetone, acetoacetate, and beta-hydroxybutyrate (b-HB). It is a common feature in acutely ill patients, such as those suffering from starvation, acute alcohol abuse, or diabetes mellitus and may result in severe, life-threatening metabolic acidosis. The presence and degree of ketosis can be determined by measuring blood levels of b-HB. Ordinarily, b-HB is the ketone present in the greatest amount in serum (approximately 75%). During ketosis, the percentage of b-HB increases even more, making it a more reliable index of ketoacidosis, than the other two ketones. In diabetes, the measurement of b-HB, as well as serum glucose, is needed for assessment of the severity of diabetic coma. Moreover, insulin requirements are often based on the extent of the existing hyperketonemia shown by the blood levels of b-HB.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.