Glutamine Screen (Serum) Test

Glutamine (abbreviated as Gln or Q) is an α-amino acid used for the biosynthesis of proteins in the body. Glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid in the human blood. It is usually synthesized in the body in sufficient amounts, however in some instances like stress, the body’s demand for glutamine increases and it should be obtained from dietary sources. The Glutamine screening is a blood test done using Automated method on the blood sample. The lab report generated after analysis will give you the standard value range of glutamine for your age group. The test results are not gender specific.

It is recommended that you wear a sleeveless or short-sleeved shirt or a full-sleeved shirt with sleeves rolled up to enable easy withdrawal of blood from your arm. No test preparation is required. There are no dietary restrictions that you have to follow before the test. Certain medications that you are currently taking may affect the test results. So, make sure to inform your doctor regarding all the medications, vitamins, herbs and supplements you are taking. Also inform your doctor regarding any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing the glutamine screening test. In case the blood withdrawn is to be used for further tests, your doctor will inform you the necessary preparations in prior.

The glutamine test is used to assess the amino acid production in the body. Since glutamine is responsible for protein synthesis, low levels of glutamine can affect metabolism. Glutamine is also a source of cellular energy (after glucose), thus measuring the values also indicates cell health. The normal range for glutamine is 420 to 730 micro mol/L for unisex gender and below 12 years of age. For above 12 years, the normal glutamine level ranges from 390 to 650 micro mol/L for unisex gender.

A few millilitres of blood sample is required for this test. This will be obtained directly from your arm. The insertion site is prepared for the withdrawal of blood. An elastic band is wrapped around your arm to make the veins swell with blood. The site to be injected is cleansed with antiseptic. The needle is inserted into the vein and a tube attached to the needle is then filled up with blood. A gauze pad or cotton ball is placed over the punctured area as the needle is removed. The sample is transferred to the laboratory for further examination.