Carotene Test
Also known as: Serum Carotene Test, Carotenemia Test
Carotene Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹12,000. Uses HPLC on Serum samples. Results in Reports are available 2-3 weeks after sample collection, with sample submission by the 7th of the month.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Carotene Test is to quantify the level of carotene in the blood, aiding in the diagnosis of carotenemia, monitoring nutritional intake, and evaluating conditions related to vitamin A metabolism.
- Test Code
- 277
- Price
- ₹12,000
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Reports are available 2-3 weeks after sample collection, with sample submission by the 7th of the month.
- Fasting Required
- Yes (12 hours)
- Method
- HPLC
Sample Collection
Overnight fasting for 12 hours is mandatory. Avoid alcohol and Vitamin A supplements for 24 hours before the test. Complete the Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35).
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding. Avoid strenuous activity for a short period.
Timeline: Reports are available 2-3 weeks after sample collection, with sample submission by the 7th of the month.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Carotene Test is to quantify the level of carotene in the blood, aiding in the diagnosis of carotenemia, monitoring nutritional intake, and evaluating conditions related to vitamin A metabolism.
How to Prepare
- Collect 3 mL serum from 1 SST
- Separate serum within 1 hour of collection
- Wrap sample in aluminium foil to protect from light
- Ship refrigerated or frozen
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Carotene levels are crucial for assessing nutritional status and diagnosing conditions like carotenemia, which can mimic jaundice. Accurate testing helps guide dietary management."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- Insufficient sample volume
- Improperly labeled or contaminated samples
- Failure to follow fasting or preparation guidelines
Understanding Your Results
Suggests carotenemia, often due to excessive intake of carotene-rich foods or supplements. May require dietary modification.
May indicate poor dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, malabsorption issues, or liver disease. Further evaluation recommended.
Indicates adequate carotene intake and normal metabolism. No immediate concerns.
Consult a doctor if you experience persistent yellow-orange skin discoloration, other symptoms like itching or dry skin, or if your test results are abnormal. Also, seek advice before making significant dietary changes.
Limitations
- ⚠Cannot distinguish carotenemia from jaundice without additional tests like bilirubin levels
- ⚠Results may be affected by dietary habits
- ⚠Not a standalone diagnostic tool for underlying liver or metabolic disorders
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or pain at the puncture site
- ●Rarely, infection or dizziness
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent consumption of carotene-rich foods
- ●Vitamin A supplements
- ●Alcohol consumption within 24 hours prior to testing
- ●Hemolyzed blood samples
- ●Exposure of sample to light
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Carotene Test?
Why is the Carotene Test done?
What are the symptoms of high carotene levels?
How should I prepare for the Carotene Test?
What is the cost of the Carotene Test in India?
Is home collection available for this test?
What sample is required for the Carotene Test?
How long does it take to get the results?
Can carotenemia be confused with jaundice?
Is fasting required for the Carotene Test?
What does a high carotene level indicate?
Are there any risks with the Carotene Test?
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