Ketone bodies are produced when the body breaks down fat for energy instead of glucose.

They appear in urine when carbohydrate metabolism is impaired or fat metabolism is increased.

Clinical uses include:

Detecting diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in uncontrolled diabetes.

Monitoring ketosis due to starvation, fasting, or low‑carbohydrate diets.

Supporting diagnosis of metabolic disorders involving abnormal fat metabolism.

Evaluating patients with vomiting, dehydration, or altered consciousness where ketosis is suspected.

Often performed alongside blood glucose, serum ketones, and arterial blood gases for comprehensive evaluation.

Analyte: Ketone bodies in urine (qualitative or semi‑quantitative).

Normal Result: Negative (no ketones detected).

Abnormal Findings:

Positive ketones: Indicates ketosis, commonly due to diabetic ketoacidosis, starvation, or prolonged fasting.

High levels: Suggest severe metabolic imbalance requiring urgent medical attention.

Clinical Use:

Provides a simple screening marker for ketosis and ketoacidosis.

Helps guide diagnosis, monitoring, and emergency management.

Supports endocrinology, internal medicine, and emergency medicine evaluations.