Acetone / Ketone
Ketones are produced in the body as by-products of fat metabolism. Ketosis is a condition in which ketones accumulate in the blood. Diabetes patients are at an increased risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a life-threatening condition. Therefore, monitoring the ketones levels in the blood of diabetic patients is important. Ketones levels also increase due to prolonged fasting, long-term alcohol abuse, acetone poisoning and the consumption of a low carbohydrates diet.
A serum ketone test helps in determining the levels of ketones in the blood. There are three known ketone bodies: acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetone.
Why the test is done?
The test is primarily used to screen, detect and monitor ketoacidosis. A person may require this test if a doctor suspects ketoacidosis - which may be due to type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes (diabetic ketoacidosis), alcohol abuse (alcoholic ketoacidosis), and/or starvation (starvation ketoacidosis).
When is the test recommended?
The test is ordered if a person develops the symptoms of ketoacidosis, which include:
How is the blood sample collected?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm.
How to prepare for the test?
No preparation is required for this test.
