Ketones blood test

Ketone Blood Test: What Is It and When Is It Done?

A ketone blood test is a medical test used to determine the concentration of ketones in a person’s blood. A ketone is a type of acid that is formed in the body when the body breaks down fat for energy instead of glucose (sugar). Ketones are usually found in people with diabetes when their blood sugar is too high. They can also be present in people who are on very low carbohydrate diets.

Ketone blood tests measure the amount of ketones circulating in the blood and can help diagnose metabolic disorders. The test looks for ketones in the form of acetoacetic acid or beta-hydroxybutyric acid. It is used to assess the risk for ketoacidosis, a serious condition related to diabetes.

Purpose of the Test

Ketone blood tests are used to detect ketoacidosis, a condition in which the concentration of ketones in the body becomes too high. When ketones build up in the body, it creates an acidic environment in the blood, which can lead to serious health complications, such as coma and even death. Ketone blood tests are used to detect ketoacidosis in people with diabetes, and also to help diagnose conditions such as alcohol abuse, certain types of cancer, and some metabolic diseases.

Preparation for the Test

No preparation is typically required for a ketone blood test; however, you should inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, supplements, or herbal treatments that may impact the results. Your doctor may then advise you to stop taking or adjust the dose of any of these substances prior to the test.

Procedure

A ketone blood test is typically done with a prick of the finger, during which a few drops of blood will be drawn to be tested. The sample is then sent to a laboratory and the results are returned to the doctor or healthcare provider. The test results will provide the healthcare provider with information about the concentration of ketones in the blood.

Types of Ketone Tests

There are two types of ketone tests: urine test and blood test. A urine test measures the presence of ketones in a person’s urine, while a blood test measures the concentration of ketones in the blood. The latter is considered to be more accurate and is the preferred method to diagnose ketoacidosis.

Risks

A ketone blood test is generally considered safe, with minimal risks. The finger prick used to draw blood may cause some discomfort, but it is typically brief. If a person experiences excessive bleeding, swelling, or pain after the test, they should seek medical attention.

Why Is a Ketone Blood Test Done?

A ketone blood test is typically done to diagnose or monitor ketoacidosis, a serious condition that occurs when the body produces too many ketones. This condition most often affects people with diabetes, but can also occur in people who are following a very low carbohydrate diet or are fasting. A ketone blood test can help diagnose or monitor ketoacidosis, and also help doctors pinpoint other metabolic diseases or disorders.

When Is a Ketone Blood Test Done?

A ketone blood test is typically done when a person has high blood sugar levels, is following a very low carbohydrate diet, or is experiencing symptoms of ketoacidosis, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fruity-smelling breath, and rapid breathing. It is also sometimes done to help diagnose certain forms of cancer, liver or kidney disease, and other metabolic disorders.