What it means
When cells cannot use glucose, because there is too little insulin or too little food, the liver breaks down fat and releases ketone bodies. Most labs measure the main one, beta-hydroxybutyrate. High levels make the blood acidic, as in diabetic ketoacidosisdy-uh-BET-ik kee-toh-as-ih-DOH-sisA state of high blood glucose, ketones in the blood and acidic blood, caused by a lack of insulin.ket/o ketonesacid/o acid-osis abnormal conditionFull entry . The blood test is more exact than a urine test and shows the current level.
For the nurse
Clients with type 1 diabetes may check blood ketones at home with a meter when glucose is high or they are sick; teach them when to call the provider.
At a glance
| Normal range | Beta-hydroxybutyrate below 0.6 mmol/L |
|---|---|
| Also written | beta-hydroxybutyrate, blood ketones, β-hydroxybutyrate, serum ketone |
Related terms
diabetic ketoacidosis
A state of high blood glucose, ketones in the blood and acidic blood, caused by a lack of insulin.
blood glucose
The amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood at the time it is measured.
ketone
An acid made by the liver when the body burns fat for energy instead of glucose.
urine ketones
A urine test, usually a dipstick, for ketones, acids made when the body burns fat for energy.