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Ammonia Test

Test Overview

An ammonia test measures the amount of ammonia in the blood. Most ammonia in the body forms when protein, Opens dialog is broken down by bacteria in the intestines, Opens dialog. The liver, Opens dialog normally converts ammonia into urea, Opens dialog, which is then eliminated in urine.

Ammonia levels in the blood rise when the liver is not able to convert ammonia to urea. This may be caused by cirrhosis, Opens dialog or severe hepatitis, Opens dialog.

For this test, a blood sample may be taken from either a vein or an artery.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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