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Lactate

Blood Lactate Lactic Acid
Fluoride oxalate or ABG syringe (on ice, immediate analysis) mmol/L

About this test

End product of anaerobic glycolysis. Elevated in tissue hypoperfusion (shock), liver failure, or mitochondrial dysfunction. Arterial or venous samples accepted.

Reference Ranges

Sex Age Range Notes
All ≥ 18 yrs 0.5 – 2 Venous; arterial similar. Hyperlactataemia: 2–4; lactic acidosis: >4 with pH <7.35

Clinical Interpretation

High / Increased
Septic shock, cardiogenic shock, hypovolaemia, severe anaemia, liver failure, metformin toxicity, ischaemic bowel, exercise.

Related Tests

Creatinine Bicarbonate
Specimen
Fluoride oxalate or ABG syringe (on ice, immediate analysis)
Reporting Unit
mmol/L
Category
🧪 Clinical Biochemistry

⚠ Clinical Note
Reference ranges are indicative. Always interpret results in the context of the individual patient and local laboratory reference intervals, which may vary.