Test library
Ammonia Level Test
The Ammonia Test measures the level of ammonia in a blood sample. Ammonia is a waste product processed by the liver, so this test is used to support the evaluation and monitoring of liver function and related conditions.
Order Ammonia Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Ammonia Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $198
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Ammonia Test is a blood test that measures how much ammonia is circulating in the blood. Ammonia is produced when the body breaks down proteins and is normally converted by the liver into urea for removal. When liver function is reduced or a metabolic pathway is disrupted, ammonia can rise, and measurement helps clinicians assess and monitor these situations. Results are interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider.
What this test measures
Ammonia is a nitrogen-containing waste product formed during protein metabolism. The liver normally converts it into urea, which the kidneys excrete. If the liver is damaged or overwhelmed, or if a rare metabolic disorder affects the urea cycle, ammonia can accumulate. Measuring the level helps clinicians understand how well this process is working.
The sample is a blood draw, usually collected in a tube that requires rapid processing because ammonia levels can change after collection. Laboratories may ask for the sample to be placed on ice and delivered promptly. Because of these handling requirements, testing is often performed at a facility that can process the sample quickly.
Ammonia testing is used in the evaluation of liver disease, unexplained confusion or drowsiness, and some inherited metabolic conditions. It may also be repeated to monitor a known problem over time. A single value is interpreted with liver function tests, clinical symptoms, and the medication list by a qualified healthcare provider.
- Ammonia (NH3)
- Plasma ammonia concentration
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) when ordered with a liver panel
- Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) when ordered with a liver panel
- Total bilirubin when ordered with a liver panel
- Albumin when ordered with a liver panel
- Prothrombin time (INR) when ordered with a liver panel
Why people order this test
- Support the evaluation of liver function
- Investigate unexplained confusion, drowsiness, or changes in alertness
- Monitor a known liver condition over time
- Follow up on abnormal liver function test results
- Assist in the assessment of inherited urea cycle disorders
- Provide context when ammonia processing may be impaired
How to prepare
The laboratory may ask you to fast before the blood draw. Tell the ordering provider about any medications, supplements, or recent illness, and follow the specific collection instructions provided, since ammonia samples require careful handling.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days, though the sample handling may require faster processing at some laboratories. The report shows the ammonia concentration and its reference range. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the value with other liver tests and clinical findings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is ammonia?
It is a waste product formed when the body breaks down proteins. The liver normally converts it to urea so it can be removed from the body.
Why is ammonia measured?
It is measured when liver function or a metabolic pathway is in question, or when symptoms such as confusion or drowsiness need evaluation.
Does this test require fasting?
Some laboratories request fasting, so follow the instructions provided with your order.
Why must the sample be processed quickly?
Ammonia levels can rise after the sample is collected, so laboratories use special handling and prompt processing to keep results accurate.
Can diet affect ammonia levels?
Protein intake and overall nutrition can influence ammonia, which is why the result is reviewed alongside your clinical picture.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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