NCIt definition : A hydroxy fatty acid anion and ketone body synthesized in the liver from acetyl-Coenzyme
A (acetyl-CoA) by the enzyme 3-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase. 3-hydroxybutyrate can
be used as an energy source when glucose levels drop. Elevated urine and serum levels
of 3-hydroxybutyrate are seen in ketosis and ketoacidosis.;