Pyruvate - blood

Last updated: Thursday, 25, March, 2004

MBS Online Search Page: Click here for details

Item Process
Specimen

Specimen collection requirements should be discussed with the laboratory. Tourniquet use should be avoided.

Method

Spectrophotometry.

Reference Interval

0.03-0.10 mmol/L.

ApplicationClassification of genetic lactic acidosis, differentiating primary pyruvic acidaemia from lactic acidaemia.
Interpretation

Elevated lactate/pyruvate ratio indicates primary lactic acidosis.

Normal lactate/pyruvate ratio indicates primary pyruvic acidosis (eg, pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency).

Reference

De Meirleir L. J Child Neurol. 2002; 17: 26-34.