Normal range 0.5-2.2 mmol/L. Specimen: Plasma or whole blood (on ice).
Also known as: serum lactate, lactic acid.
0.5-2.2 mmol/LThreshold: read below
Reference range
Conventionalmmol/L
0.52.2
Combined adult band. LabVals does not publish separate men's, women's, or pediatric ranges for Lactate (Lactic Acid); those can be narrower than the band shown.
Lactate (Lactic Acid) reference range, specimen, and conversion details
Convert any Lactate (Lactic Acid) result between units on the unit converter.
What is the normal range for Lactate (Lactic Acid)?
The standard teaching reference range for Lactate (Lactic Acid) is 0.5-2.2 mmol/L. This value is measured in plasma or whole blood (on ice).
What threshold is taught for Lactate (Lactic Acid)?
For Lactate (Lactic Acid), the commonly taught threshold is: > 4 mmol/L signals significant hypoperfusion / sepsis.
Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population - always use the range printed on the actual result.
A key marker of tissue perfusion in sepsis; trend clearance during resuscitation.
Use a tourniquet-free draw and transport on ice to avoid a false elevation.
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