Acetone

It is the simplest representative of ketones CH₃ – CO – CH₃. It has a CNS irritating and narcotic effect. Acute and chronic poisonings can occur. Acetone can be formed in the body from acetoacetic acid, by decarboxylation:

In the body, acetoacetate accumulates when carbohydrate metabolism is disturbed (e.g., in cases of diabetes mellitus). Acetone is formed in the body only when there are high concentrations of acetone substances (β-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate). It is excreted from the body in urine, sweat, and exhaled air.

Acetonemia (ketonemia) – increased concentration of acetone substances in the blood. Normally it is 1.0–2.0 mg/l, based on acetone. Acetonuria (ketonuria) – increased excretion of acetone substances in urine. It is detected during diabetes mellitus, acetone poisoning, or fasting.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė