Can CoQ10 Be Checked in Blood Work?
Yes, CoQ10 levels can be measured in blood through plasma or serum testing, but there is no clinical indication to routinely measure these levels in practice—measurements are largely reserved for research purposes. 1
Clinical Utility of CoQ10 Testing
The 2022 ESPEN micronutrient guidelines explicitly state that there is no clinical indication to measure plasma CoQ10 levels, with measurements being largely for research studies (Grade of recommendation GPP - Strong consensus 100%). 1
What Can Be Measured
When CoQ10 assessment is needed for research purposes, plasma CoQ10 concentration may be measured (Grade of recommendation GPP - Strong consensus 100%). 1
Plasma CoQ10 is more clinically relevant than the CoQ10/total plasma cholesterol ratio, since plasma CoQ10 (but not the ratio) correlates with CoQ10 content in thrombocytes and leukocytes. 1 This is important because CoQ10 levels are dependent on lipoprotein status, as lipoproteins (particularly LDL) are the major carriers of CoQ10 in circulation. 1
Technical Aspects of Testing
Available Testing Methods
- Blood samples can be analyzed using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) with electrochemical detection and internal standardization. 2
- Minimal blood volume required: Testing can be performed on as little as one drop of blood (0.05 ml), making it technically feasible for monitoring. 3
- Sample types: CoQ10 can be measured in plasma, serum, whole blood, and erythrocytes. 2, 4
Important Caveats
Peak plasma levels occur 5-10 hours after oral ingestion due to CoQ10's low intestinal absorption related to its hydrophobicity and large molecular weight. 1 This timing consideration is relevant if assessing supplementation compliance or effectiveness.
Erythrocyte CoQ10 levels may not reflect supplementation status in healthy individuals, as normal red blood cells appear to regulate their CoQ10 content independently from environmental supplementation, though dramatic changes occur under pathological conditions (such as sickle cell anemia). 2
When Testing Might Be Considered (Research Context Only)
While not recommended for routine clinical practice, CoQ10 measurement has been used in research settings to:
- Monitor supplementation compliance in clinical trials. 3
- Assess CoQ10 status in patients with suspected primary mitochondrial deficiencies (though primary deficiencies and mitochondrial diseases are beyond the scope of standard nutritional guidelines). 1
- Evaluate oxidative stress states by measuring both oxidized (ubiquinone) and reduced (ubiquinol) forms. 2