How to Measure Blood Ammonia Levels | Step-by-Step Clinical Guide

Описание: How to Measure Blood Ammonia Levels | Step-by-Step Clinical Guide

Measuring blood ammonia is essential for diagnosing conditions like hepatic encephalopathy, liver failure, urea cycle disorders, and unexplained altered mental status. Accurate testing requires proper technique because ammonia levels can be easily affected by handling errors.

Blood ammonia is measured through a plasma ammonia test performed in a clinical laboratory. Here’s how it’s typically done:

• A venous blood sample (sometimes arterial in specific cases) is drawn using minimal tourniquet time
• The sample is collected in a heparinized tube
• The tube is immediately placed on ice to prevent false elevation
• The sample is transported quickly to the lab
• Plasma is separated promptly by centrifugation
• Ammonia concentration is measured using enzymatic assays

Normal adult reference range is generally about 15–45 µg/dL (may vary by lab).

Important factors that can falsely increase ammonia levels include delayed processing, hemolysis, prolonged tourniquet use, smoking, and muscle activity during draw.

Ammonia testing is commonly ordered for:
• Liver disease monitoring
• Suspected hepatic encephalopathy
• Newborn metabolic screening
• Unexplained confusion or coma

Proper collection technique is critical for accurate results. Always consult clinical guidelines and laboratory protocols in your healthcare setting.

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