Ammonia

This test measures the level of ammonia in your blood. Ammonia, also known as NH3, is a waste product made by your body during the digestion of protein. Normally, ammonia is processed in the liver, where it is changed into another waste product called urea. Urea is passed through the body in urine.
If your body can’t process or eliminate ammonia, it builds up in the bloodstream. High ammonia levels in the blood can lead to serious health problems, including brain damage, coma, and even death.
High ammonia levels in the blood are most often caused by liver disease. Other causes include kidney failure and genetic disorders.
Other names: NH3 test, blood ammonia test, serum ammonia, ammonia; plasma