3meglutaconatecsfscnc
A specialized laboratory test that measures the level of 3-methylglutaconate in cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose metabolic and neurological disorders.
{"Measures 3-methylglutaconate levels in brain and spinal fluid","Helps diagnose rare metabolic disorders affecting the nervous system","Collected via lumbar puncture (spinal tap)","Results assist healthcare providers in identifying genetic metabolic conditions","Abnormal results may indicate problems with energy metabolism in cells"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72440-1
- Short code
- 3MGC CSF
- Synonyms
- 3Me-glutaconate CSF-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Polypropylene cryovial or sterile plastic container
- Units
- N/A
- 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
- 82131 (Organic acids, quantitative, single specimen)
- SNOMED
- 12245004 (Cerebrospinal fluid specimen)
- Specimen volume
- 0.5-1.0 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
- Stability
- Store at -20°C or -80°C. Stable for several weeks when properly frozen. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 168–336 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 3-methylglutaconate test measures the amount of a substance called 3-methylglutaconate in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear liquid that surrounds and protects your brain and spinal cord. This test is a specialized biochemical analysis performed in reference laboratories with specific expertise in metabolic testing.
Why is it important?
3-Methylglutaconate is a type of organic acid that is normally processed by certain enzymes in your body. When the body cannot properly metabolize this substance, it can accumulate and cause health problems. Measuring this compound in CSF provides valuable information about your body's metabolic processes, particularly those affecting the nervous system.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture, commonly known as a spinal tap. During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle between the bones in your lower spine to collect a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid. The area is numbed with local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. The sample is then sent to a specialized laboratory for analysis.
What should I expect during the test?
Before the test, your healthcare provider will explain the procedure and answer any questions. During the lumbar puncture, you will lie on your side or sit bent forward. After the area is cleaned and numbed, the needle is inserted to collect the fluid. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort, but it is usually well-tolerated. After the procedure, you may be asked to lie flat for a short time to reduce the risk of headache.
Are there any risks?
Lumbar puncture is generally safe, but like all medical procedures, it carries some minor risks. These may include headache (the most common), back pain, bleeding, or very rarely, infection. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you and take steps to minimize them. Most people recover quickly and can resume normal activities within a day or two.
Reference range
Reference range not well-established; result interpretation based on clinical context and comparison to reference laboratory values. Elevated levels may indicate 3-methylglutaconic aciduria or other mitochondrial disorders.N/A
No special preparation required. Inform patient about lumbar puncture procedure and obtain informed consent. No fasting necessary.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this specific test?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What do abnormal results mean?
Is this test only for children?
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