Lactic acid test
What is a Lactic Acid Test?
A lactic acid test is a laboratory procedure used to measure the amount of lactic acid present in a person's blood or in other fluid samples such as urine, cerebrospinal fluid, or in pathological tissue samples. Lactic acid is an organic compound that is produced when a person does intense exercise or during other intense metabolic activity like in diabetes, cancer, kidney and liver diseases.
Preparation for a Lactic Acid Test
No preparation is necessary for a lactic acid test aside for routine blood tests in a lab. The doctor will take blood from a person for testing. The amount taken is usually one tablespoon.
Procedure of a Lactic Acid Test
In a lactic acid test, the lab technician will take a sample of blood, and then use laboratory equipment to measure the amount of lactic acid in the sample. The lab technician will also check other parameters such as pH, glucose levels, and oxygen saturation in the blood sample.
Types of Lactic Acid Tests
- Venous blood test.
- Arterial blood test.
- Urinalysis.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
- Pathological tissue sample examination.
Risks of a Lactic Acid Test
A lactic acid test is generally considered a safe procedure, and there are no known risks associated with it. However, there is a slight risk of infection or bruising at the site where the blood is taken. If this occurs, the doctor can provide appropriate treatment.
Why is the Lactic Acid Test Performed?
The lactic acid test is performed to determine if there is an abnormally high level of lactic acid in the blood. This is an indication of severe metabolic stress in the body, and can be a sign of a serious medical condition. It can also be used to check the effectiveness of treatment for a medical condition.
When is a Lactic Acid Test Recommended?
The lactic acid test is typically recommended when a person exhibits signs of lactic acidosis, a condition characterized by a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Signs may include nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, and rapid or irregular heartbeat. It may also be ordered if a person is at risk of developing lactic acidosis, such as those with diabetes, cancer, kidney or liver disease, or if a person is on certain types of medication such as metformin.
