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Acylcarnitinedbsql

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

This test measures acylcarnitine levels in blood collected from a finger prick or heel stick onto a special filter paper card. It is primarily used to screen newborns for metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

{"Screens newborns for inherited metabolic disorders affecting energy production","Detects abnormal acylcarnitine patterns that may indicate fatty acid oxidation or organic acid disorders","A simple heel stick or finger prick blood sample is all that is needed","Early detection allows for prompt treatment before symptoms develop","Results help doctors diagnose rare but serious metabolic conditions"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43717-8
Short code
Acylcarnitine DBS Ql
Synonyms
Acylcarnitine DBS Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The acylcarnitine test measures the levels of different acylcarnitine compounds in the blood. Acylcarnitines are substances that help transport fatty acids into cells, where they are burned for energy. When certain metabolic enzymes are missing or not working properly, these compounds can build up to harmful levels in the blood.

How is the sample collected?

For newborns, a few drops of blood are collected from the heel or finger onto a special filter paper card. This is called a dried blood spot (DBS) sample. The sample is allowed to dry and is then sent to a laboratory for testing. The collection is quick and usually done before the baby leaves the hospital.

What does the test look for?

The test looks for abnormal patterns of various acylcarnitine species, including short-chain, medium-chain, and long-chain acylcarnitines. Different patterns can indicate different metabolic disorders, such as: medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCAD), propionic acidemia, methylmalonic acidemia, and carnitine transport defects.

Is fasting required?

For newborn screening, the test is typically done before any prolonged fasting, often within the first 24-48 hours of life. For older children or adults undergoing diagnostic testing, fasting instructions may vary. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Why is this test done on newborns?
Many metabolic disorders are not apparent at birth but can cause serious health problems within days or weeks. Early detection through newborn screening allows treatment to begin before symptoms develop, dramatically improving outcomes for affected infants.
What if my baby's test is abnormal?
An abnormal result does not always mean your baby has a disorder. Sometimes the result can be affected by premature birth, certain medications, or other factors. If the initial test is abnormal, you will be contacted for follow-up testing to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.
Is this test mandatory?
Newborn screening is required in most US states, though parents may decline for religious or other reasons after being fully informed. The test is strongly recommended because the benefits of early detection far outweigh the risks of the simple blood draw.
Can this test detect all metabolic disorders?
No, this test specifically screens for disorders of fatty acid oxidation and certain organic acidemias. It does not detect all metabolic conditions. Other newborn screening tests check for different disorders.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Acylcarnitine Profile, Quantitative, Dried Blood SpotSource
  2. 2
    American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics - Newborn Screening ACT SheetsSource
  3. 3
    MedlinePlus - Newborn Screening TestsSource

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