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3ohtdecanoylcarnamnscnc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures a specific fatty acid metabolite in amniotic fluid to help detect certain metabolic disorders in the unborn baby.

Quick summary

{"Measures C14-OH acylcarnitine levels in amniotic fluid collected during pregnancy","Helps screen for fetal metabolic disorders affecting fatty acid breakdown","Results are interpreted along with other prenatal tests to assess baby's health","Abnormal results may require additional testing and genetic counseling","The test is part of prenatal metabolic screening, not routine pregnancy care"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50282-3
Short code
3OH-Tdecanoylcarn Amn-sCnc
Synonyms
3OH-Tdecanoylcarn Amn-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 3-Hydroxytetradecanoylcarnitine (C14-OH) test measures the amount of a specific fatty acid metabolite called C14-OH acylcarnitine in the amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby during pregnancy. Acylcarnitines are substances produced when the body breaks down fats for energy. This test uses a sample of amniotic fluid collected during amniocentesis, a procedure where a small amount of fluid is removed from the uterus for testing.

Why is it done?

This test is performed to screen for certain metabolic disorders that a baby may have before birth. These disorders affect how the baby's body processes fats for energy. Detecting these conditions during pregnancy allows healthcare providers to prepare for special care the baby may need immediately after birth. The test is usually ordered when there is a family history of metabolic disorders or when other screening tests suggest a potential problem.

What do the results mean?

Abnormally high levels of C14-OH acylcarnitine in amniotic fluid may indicate that the baby has a disorder affecting fatty acid oxidation, such as multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) or long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (LCHAD). These are rare but serious conditions that affect how the body converts fat into energy. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in combination with other test results and discuss any necessary follow-up steps with you.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test part of routine pregnancy care?
No, this is not a routine test. It is typically ordered when there is a specific clinical concern, such as a family history of metabolic disorders, abnormal results from other prenatal screening tests, or when a previous child was diagnosed with a metabolic condition. This specialized test is performed in specialized laboratories.
How is the amniotic fluid sample collected?
The sample is collected through a procedure called amniocentesis. During this procedure, a thin needle is inserted through the abdomen into the uterus to withdraw a small amount of amniotic fluid. The procedure is guided by ultrasound to ensure safety. While amniocentesis carries a small risk of miscarriage, it is considered safe when performed by experienced healthcare providers.
What happens if the results are abnormal?
If the results show elevated C14-OH levels, your healthcare provider will likely recommend additional testing to confirm the diagnosis. This may include genetic testing, more detailed metabolic testing, and consultation with a metabolic specialist or genetic counselor. The goal is to prepare for proper management and treatment immediately after the baby is born.
Can these metabolic disorders be treated?
Yes, many fatty acid oxidation disorders can be managed with special diets, medications, and careful monitoring. Babies diagnosed before birth can receive immediate appropriate care after birth, which often prevents serious complications. Treatment plans are individualized based on the specific disorder and its severity.
  1. 1
    Newborn Screening: Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency - StatPearlsSource
  2. 2
    Prenatal Diagnosis of Fatty Acid Oxidation Disorders - Journal of Inherited Metabolic DiseaseSource
  3. 3
    Acylcarnitine Profile Analysis - Mayo Clinic LaboratoriesSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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