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Test ID: DLAC
D-Lactate, Plasma

Useful For Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful

An adjunct to urine D-lactate (preferred), in the diagnosis of D-lactate acidosis

Clinical Information Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test

D-lactate is produced from carbohydrates that were not absorbed in the small intestine by bacteria residing in the colon. When large amounts are absorbed it can cause metabolic acidosis, altered mental status (from drowsiness to coma), and a variety of other neurologic symptoms, in particular dysarthria and ataxia. Although a temporal relationship has been described between elevations of plasma and urine D-lactate and the accompanying encephalopathy, the mechanism of neurologic manifestations has not been elucidated.

 

D-lactic acidosis is typically observed in patients with short-bowel syndrome and following jejunoileal bypass resulting in carbohydrate malabsorption. In addition, healthy children presenting with gastroenteritis may also develop the critical presentation of D-lactic acidosis.

 

D-lactate is readily excreted in urine, which is the preferred specimen for D-lactate determinations.

Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.

0.0-0.25 mmol/L

Interpretation Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results

Increased levels are consistent with D-lactic acidosis. However, because D-lactate is readily excreted, urine determinations are preferred.

Cautions Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances

Urine is the preferred specimen to determine D-lactate.

 

The test performed was D-Lactate. This is a product of bacterial overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract. It should not be confused with L-lactate which accumulates in some metabolic acidosis.

Clinical Reference Provides recommendations for further in-depth reading of a clinical nature

1. Brandt RB, Siegel SA, Waters MG, Bloch MH: Spectrophotometric assay for D-(-)-lactate in plasma. Anal Biochem1980;102(1):39-46

2. Petersen C: D-lactic acidosis. Nutr Clin Pract 2005;20(6):634-645