Medical Health Tests >>  Articles >>  Medical Tests

Beta Hydroxybutyrate Test



 Submitted by Nic on August 13, 2011
Before we go into the details of beta hydroxybutyrate test, let us understand what beta hydroxybutyrate is. Beta hydroxybutyrate is a substance that is produced by the body and is known as a ketone. Ketones are the byproducts of fat metabolism. Keep in mind that the build up of ketones is not normal. Ketones build up in the blood when fatty acids are metabolized. The body switches to this source of ketones only if the person suffers from diabetes or if there is no glucose. When a person has diabetes, their bodies are either resistant to insulin or deficient in insulin. This results in the body being in a state of ketosis. Being in a continual state of ketosis is dangerous as ketones are acidic bodies and will cause ketoacidosis, which is a form of metabolic acidosis. Beta hydroxybutyrate levels are raised in ketosis. Such a condition is most often seen when Type 1 diabetes is not controlled and can be a medical emergency.

Symptoms of ketoacidosis that might warrant such a test include:-

Excessive thirst,
Increased urination
Shortness of breath,
Rapid breathing
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Confusion,
A fruit like scent to the breath
Sometimes, even a coma.

Thus the beta hydroxybutyrate test measures the amount of beta hydroxybutyrate in the blood. It is used when either alcoholic ketoacidosis or diabetic acidosis is suspected. This test is also known as the beta hydroxybutyrate assay and can be ordered as a separate blood test or as part of other laboratory tests. Beta hydroxybutyrate testing is conducted on a blood sample. While there are beta hydroxybutyrate testing labs, kits for this beta hydroxybutyrate test can even be purchased online. This beta hydroxybutyrate test can be performed in an emergency room, at a hospital or even performed at home. The sample is collected by inserting a needle into the vein in the arm in order to collect the blood. A blood sample can also be obtained by pricking the finger with a sharp instrument. Keep in mind that testing for a ketone is more often than not, done in a medical emergency, therefore there is no preparation involved for this type of blood test. However, the doctor should be informed if the person being tested has consumed any alcohol.

A beta hydroxybutyrate test reveals the amount of ketone accumulation at the time the sample was collected. After interpreting the results the doctor can start treatment accordingly.
Read more articles from the Medical Tests Category.
Related Topics
Related Questions
Search

Today's
Poll

Does Gait analysis help in Physical therapy?
MedicalHealthTests© Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved.