Which ketone component is measured by the nitroprusside reaction?

The nitroprusside reaction specifically measures acetoacetic acid, which is one of the three primary ketone bodies produced during ketogenesis. In a laboratory setting, the reaction involves the interaction of acetoacetic acid with nitroprusside, resulting in a color change that can be quantitatively measured. This is an important diagnostic tool for identifying ketoacidosis, particularly in diabetic patients.

Beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetone are other ketone bodies, but they are not detected using the nitroprusside reaction. Instead, beta-hydroxybutyrate is typically measured through enzymatic methods, and acetone can be detected by various other means, including gas chromatography. 3-hydroxybutyric acid is synonymous with beta-hydroxybutyrate, further excluding it from being the correct answer in the context of this specific assay.

Thus, the nitroprusside reaction is unique in its ability to quantify acetoacetic acid among the ketone bodies, highlighting its significance in clinical laboratory practice.