Ketone Body (Beta Hydroxybutyrate) Serum Test
Short Name: Beta Hydroxybutyrate Serum Test
Also known as: Beta Hydroxybutyrate Test, Ketone Body Test, BHB Serum Test
Ketone Body (Beta Hydroxybutyrate) Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,755. Uses Enzymatic Assay on Serum samples. Results in Reports available the same day if sample is collected by 4 pm.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
To diagnose diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), monitor ketone levels in diabetes management, assess metabolic state during fasting or low-carb diets, and guide insulin therapy adjustments.
- Test Code
- 1138
- Price
- ₹1,755
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Reports available the same day if sample is collected by 4 pm.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Enzymatic Assay
Sample Collection
No special preparation required, but inform your doctor about any medications or dietary changes.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball to stop bleeding; slight bruising may occur.
Timeline: Reports available the same day if sample is collected by 4 pm.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
To diagnose diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), monitor ketone levels in diabetes management, assess metabolic state during fasting or low-carb diets, and guide insulin therapy adjustments.
How to Prepare
- No fasting is required for this test.
- Avoid strenuous exercise before sample collection.
- Stay hydrated and inform the technician of any medical conditions.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"This test is essential for monitoring diabetic ketoacidosis and adjusting insulin therapy to prevent complications."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- Insufficient sample volume
- Improperly labeled containers
- Samples not stored at recommended temperatures
Understanding Your Results
Suggests no significant ketone production; metabolic state is stable.
Level: Normal (0.0 - 0.6 mmol/L)
May indicate ketosis due to fasting, diet, or uncontrolled diabetes; monitor closely.
Level: Elevated (>0.6 mmol/L)
Likely indicates diabetic ketoacidosis; immediate medical intervention required.
Level: High (>1.0 mmol/L)
If test results are elevated, or if you experience symptoms like persistent fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, or confusion, consult a healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and management.
Limitations
- ⚠Does not distinguish between type 1 and type 2 diabetes
- ⚠May be affected by dietary habits immediately before test
- ⚠Not a standalone diagnostic tool; must be correlated with clinical symptoms and glucose levels
- ⚠Reference ranges can vary slightly between laboratories
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or pain at the puncture site
- ●Rare risk of infection or excessive bleeding
- ●Fainting in individuals sensitive to blood draws
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent high-fat or low-carbohydrate diets
- ●Fasting or starvation states
- ●Certain medications like SGLT2 inhibitors
- ●Alcohol consumption
- ●Stress or acute illness
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Ketone Body (Beta Hydroxybutyrate) Serum Test | Blood Glucose Test | Urine Ketone Test | HbA1c Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Ketone Body (Beta Hydroxybutyrate) Serum Test | Measures sugar levels; Ketone test assesses ketone production for ketoacidosis diagnosis. | Urine test detects acetoacetate; serum beta hydroxybutyrate is more accurate for DKA monitoring. | HbA1c measures long-term glucose control; Ketone test indicates acute metabolic state. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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