Ammonia
Also known as: Plasma Ammonia; NH3
Formal name: Ammonia
Related tests: Liver panel
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To detect elevated levels of ammonia in the blood, to help evaluate changes in consciousness, severe liver disease, and certain genetic urea cycle disorders; to support the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy and Reye’s syndrome
When to Get Tested?
When a patient experiences mental changes or lapses into a coma of unknown origin; when an infant or child experiences frequent vomiting and increased lethargy as a newborn or about a week after a viral illness
Sample Required?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm
Test Preparation Needed?
You should not smoke prior to collection of the specimen.
