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Beta-Hydroxybutyrate

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Beta-Hydroxybutyric Acid, BHB, BOHB
Laboratory	Core Laboratory & Transfusion Medicine
Sub-section	Biochemistry
Specimen Type	Blood
Test Code	BHBS, BHBP

Clinical Significance

Identifying presence of ketoacidosis and monitoring therapy for patients with diabetic ketoacidosis.

Specimen Requirements (Sample Type)

Serum, Plasma

Specimen Requirements (Volume (mL))

0.5 mL

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

Serum (Gold SST)
Plasma (Light Green PST)
Collection Containers – Tube Types

Collection Requirements

Blood Collection Instructions

Cause for Rejection

Specimen Acceptability and Transport Guidance

Instrument, Methodology

Nova StatStrip, electrochemical

Test Availability

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

STAT Turnaround Time

1 hour

Routine Turnaround Time

1 hour

Reference Ranges

< 1.0 mmol/L

In case of discrepancies, always interpret results using reference ranges as stated on laboratory reports and/or electronic patient chart.

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4688