The acetone serum test measures acetone levels in blood serum to evaluate ketosis or metabolic conditions. Acetone, a ketone body produced during fat breakdown, is tested to diagnose diabetic ketoacidosis, starvation ketosis, or alcohol-related metabolic issues.

Purpose: Detects elevated acetone levels indicating excessive fat metabolism, often in uncontrolled diabetes, fasting, or alcoholism.
Sample Type: Serum (blood drawn from a vein, processed within 1–2 hours; stored at -20°C if delayed).
Procedure: No special preparation is typically needed, though fasting may be recommended. Normal serum levels are <0.8 mmol/L, measured via gas chromatography or enzymatic methods.
Limitations: Levels can be influenced by diet, hydration, or recent alcohol intake. Results are interpreted with clinical context, often alongside other ketone tests (e.g., beta-hydroxybutyrate).