Ammonia
Ammonia is a waste product made when your body breaks down protein. The liver normally converts it into urea so it can be removed by the kidneys, keeping blood ammonia low.
Because the liver clears ammonia, blood ammonia can reflect how well the liver is performing this task. It is sometimes used when there is concern about advanced liver conditions, particularly when they affect brain function. It is a specialized test rather than a routine one.
A higher ammonia can occur when the liver is less able to process it, which is sometimes linked to changes in alertness or thinking in advanced liver conditions. Ammonia results are sensitive to how the sample is collected and handled, so they need careful interpretation. The value is always considered alongside symptoms and other findings.
A low ammonia is not a health concern and is not something that needs treatment.
Results are compared to your lab's reference range shown beside your value. Because ammonia is affected by sample handling and reflects complex liver processes, your clinician will interpret it carefully in context.
Sources
Educational context only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex; always discuss your results with a clinician.