Blood Ketones

Other names: Acetoacetate; Plasma Ketone; Ketone Bodies; Acetone; Serum Ketone; Beta-Hydroxybutyrate; Ketoacids; Beta-Hydroxybutyric Acid; Acetoacetic Acid

Ketones are products of fat metabolism; they are formed when there is no glucose available to act as the body’s energy supply. Ketones develop in the body when fatty acids are metabolised; this leads to a condition known as ketosis, which may progress to ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is a type of metabolic acidosis and is most commonly associated with untreated diabetes, it can be extremely serious.

Why is the test used?

The blood ketone test is used to measure the levels of ketones in the blood; the test is usually used to test for ketoacidosis.

A doctor will usually recommend this test when a patient has symptoms associated with ketoacidosis; these include:

  • Feeling thirsty all the time
  • Increased urination
  • Rapid, short breaths
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Tiredness and fatigue
  • Dehydration

How is the test done?

The test is usually done using a urine sample but a blood test may also be carried out. The blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm; the needle is inserted into the vein and the blood collects in a syringe; once the sample has been collected it will be bottled, labelled and sent to the laboratory for analysis.

What do the test results show?

If the concentration of ketones in the blood is high, this means the patient has ketosis or ketoacidosis. If the levels are low or normal, it is likely that the patient does not have ketosis.

Specific Blood Tests



© Medic8® | All Rights Reserved