2ohsebacatecsfscnc
This test measures the level of 2-hydroxysebacate in cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose certain metabolic and genetic disorders.
{"2-Hydroxysebacate is a metabolic byproduct measured in spinal fluid","The test helps diagnose inherited metabolic disorders, particularly fatty acid oxidation defects","Abnormal results may indicate mitochondrial dysfunction or genetic enzyme deficiencies","The test requires a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to collect cerebrospinal fluid","Results are typically available within several days to a week"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 69784-7
- Short code
- 2-OH sebacate CSF
- Synonyms
- 2OH-sebacate CSF-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile CSF collection tube (plain, no additive) or cryogenic vial
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.01
- Ref high
- 0.15
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 82520 (Organic acids, quantitative) or 82540 (Specific metabolite by MS/MS)
- SNOMED
- 122450004
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL CSF minimum
- Stability
- Store at -20°C or -80°C if not processed immediately. Stability: up to 7 days at -20°C, longer at -80°C. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 2-hydroxysebacate test measures the amount of 2-hydroxysebacate, a type of organic acid, in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. This test is part of a group of tests called organic acid analysis, which help doctors identify problems with how your body breaks down and processes nutrients.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare provider will collect a sample of your cerebrospinal fluid using a procedure called a lumbar puncture, commonly known as a spinal tap. During this procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the lower back to withdraw a small amount of CSF. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where specialists measure the levels of 2-hydroxysebacate and other organic acids.
Why might I need this test?
Doctors may order this test when they suspect a metabolic disorder, especially related to how the body processes fatty acids. It is often performed on infants and children who show signs of metabolic problems such as developmental delays, seizures, muscle weakness, or unexplained illness. The test can also be helpful in diagnosing certain mitochondrial diseases that affect energy production in cells.
Reference range
Reference range not well established; results interpreted in clinical context by metabolic specialist. Typical reference range: 0.01-0.15 mmol/L (may vary by laboratory)N/A
No specific patient preparation required. Standard CSF collection precautions apply.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the lumbar puncture procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What do abnormal results mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy